Yossakon Pushes Major Expansion of Bangkok Planetarium, Linking Universities Nationwide to Create Free Learning Spaces for All Ages

On May 18, 2025, at the Center for the Promotion and Development of Science Learning, Deputy Prime Minister Yossakon Wongsuadsdi and ministers Prasert Jantharavongtong and Akkhananth Kanakittinanth jointly launched the "From Museum to Lifelong Learning Ecosystem Center" initiative and a working committee meeting to elevate Bangkok's planetarium into a model lifelong learning center.

Yossakon stated that transitioning from the traditional museum concept to a lifelong learning ecosystem represents a crucial milestone, emphasizing outcome-based education that empowers learners with potential and direction. This initiative requires collaboration across multiple sectors. The planetarium, which has long inspired millions of Thais, must foster youth to think boldly, take action, dream courageously, and crucially, believe their dreams are achievable—giving them the resilience to overcome obstacles.

In the context of rapidly changing technology, Yossakon explained that the planetarium's definition must evolve beyond a children's space to become an open area for workers, disadvantaged individuals, and those seeking career changes—a source of inspiration for starting new lives at any age. Given the large population, a single location is insufficient. Success depends on connecting with partner networks nationwide, including the National Astronomical Research Institute, school libraries, and private learning centers, to expand learning to provinces across the country. This collaboration will disseminate diverse knowledge across professions and link curricula to all educational levels—vocational education, basic education, and higher education—ensuring equal opportunities for youth in remote areas and providing hope for all.