Deputy PM Orders Investigation Into Pattani University Political Event
A deputy PM is investigating whether Pattani University properly credited students who attended a seminar featuring speakers from the People's Party political organization.
At 11:30 am on August 18, Deputy Prime Minister Yasothon Wongsadet and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation gave an interview at Government House regarding a case where the Political Science Faculty at Prince of Songkhla University, Pattani campus, invited personnel from the People's Party to hold a seminar for students. Students who attended were offered 3 activity credits.
Yasothon said he has already spoken with the Permanent Secretary of the ministry and has requested data from the university to verify whether the event was conducted according to proper procedures. He learned of the matter from the media and wants to review more details before making a judgment, but emphasized that intellectual freedom cannot be restricted. His investigation will focus on whether the activity was organized and credited correctly.
When asked about the university's guidelines for such activities, Yasothon stated that such events already have freedom to be held, but if they are tied to course credits, it must follow proper criteria. If done correctly, they can proceed. Content guidelines are determined by each university's charter, overseen by the university council. He asked for clarification from the university first.
Asked whether new regulations would be issued nationwide if the activity was improper, Yasothon said each university has its own procedures and processes. If issues arise, each institution has established protocols. Student groups and faculty groups also have their own processes. The ministry's role is to ensure each university complies with its own charter. However, if anything is found improper, individual universities already have criteria and procedures in place to address it.
