Parents Rush to Buy School Uniforms, Say Government's 500 Baht Subsidy Falls Short
Parents rush to buy school uniforms as the academic term nears, but say the government's 500-baht subsidy per student is insufficient to cover standard uniforms plus mandatory club-specific attire like Girl Guides and youth Red Cross unifor
On May 12, 2569, reporters observed unusually busy crowds at school uniform shops across the region as the school term approaches. Most parents are seeking discounted uniforms to cut costs. Ms. Yenjit Kaewganhaa, 43, from Ban Kruat District in Buriram Province, noted that beyond standard uniforms, schools require students to purchase additional uniforms including Girl Guides, youth Red Cross, and volunteer service uniforms depending on students' club affiliations. Though this adds financial burden, she acknowledged it teaches children about their duties and responsibilities in society. Ms. Chujittha Phuseritthira, 40, a parent, stated that the government's 500 baht subsidy per student is no longer adequate. She highlighted the difficult economic situation, especially for border residents like herself who have evacuated twice, lost income, and had to borrow money to survive. She hopes the government will increase assistance. Meanwhile, Ms. Petchlada Iamdi, 21, a school uniform shop employee in Prasart Subdistrict Municipality, noted that while uniform sales are better this year than last, it's because parents earned money working in other provinces. However, local border residents have no money since they couldn't work during the recent clashes between Thai and Cambodian military forces.
