Prime Minister Visits Yala to Promote Education and Soft Power Growth
On January 16, 2025, Prime Minister Pae Thongthan Shinawatra and her delegation visited Thamwittaya Foundation school in Yala Province, underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and fostering soft power across the country. The visit, which included high-ranking officials such as Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Minister of Justice Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, highlighted the administration’s focus on improving the quality of life and education in the southern border regions.
During her address, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s goal to “spread educational opportunities to all areas of the country so that youth can generate income and have a stable future.” She also stressed the importance of promoting soft power in each province to showcase the unique potential of local areas. This aligns with broader strategies to leverage education as a tool for national development and international influence [[1]].
The Prime Minister’s visit coincided with Teacher’s Day,a moment she used to honor educators. “Teachers are an critically important foundation for creating quality people,” she stated, expressing gratitude for their dedication to nurturing students who will become “an important force for the nation in the future.” She also encouraged students to study diligently and contribute to the nation’s progress.Administrators of Thamwittaya Foundation School highlighted the need for government support, particularly in providing scholarships for underprivileged university students and enhancing the overall quality of the education system.Thes efforts aim to reduce inequality and create better opportunities for children in remote areas.
Thamwittaya Foundation School is a private institution that integrates Islamic teachings with general education, offering classes from Mathayom 1-6 and religious levels 1-10. With 140 classrooms,530 teachers,and over 6,000 students,the school is a vital source of quality personnel,particularly spiritual leaders and educators.
The visit underscores the government’s determination to improve education and quality of life in the southern border provinces, marking a significant step toward a sustainable future for the region’s youth.
key Highlights of the Visit
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Thamwittaya Foundation School, Yala Province |
| Objective | Promote education and soft power development |
| key Attendees | Prime Minister Pae Thongthan Shinawatra, deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Minister of Justice Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong |
| School Details | 140 classrooms, 530 teachers, 6,000+ students |
| Government Focus | Scholarships, education quality advancement, reducing inequality |
The Prime minister’s visit to Yala Province reflects a broader strategy to harness education as a cornerstone of national development and soft power [[3]].
Images courtesy of the Prime Minister’s office.
Prime Minister’s Visit to yala: A Focus on Education and Soft Power Growth
On January 16, 2025, Prime Minister Pae Thongthan Shinawatra visited Yala Province to emphasize the government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and fostering soft power. The visit to Thamwittaya Foundation School highlighted efforts to improve quality of life and education in the southern border regions. In this interview, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, Sarah Carter, sits down with Dr. Somchai Wongsim,an expert in education policy and regional development,to discuss the meaning of this visit and its implications for national growth.
Sarah Carter: Dr. Wongsim, what stood out to you about the Prime Minister’s visit to Yala Province?
Dr. Somchai Wongsim: The visit was notably significant because it underscored the government’s focus on the southern border regions, which have historically faced challenges in education and economic development.By choosing Thamwittaya Foundation School, a private institution that integrates Islamic teachings with general education, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of inclusive and culturally relevant education. This sends a strong message about the management’s commitment to addressing regional disparities.
Sarah Carter: The Prime Minister emphasized spreading educational opportunities to all areas. How do you see this impacting national development?
Dr. Somchai Wongsim: Education is the cornerstone of any nation’s progress. By ensuring that youth in remote and underserved areas have access to quality education, the government is investing in the country’s future workforce. This not only helps reduce income inequality but also empowers individuals to contribute to the economy. Education also plays a critical role in fostering innovation and competitiveness on a global scale, which is essential for Thailand’s long-term development.
Sarah Carter: The visit also touched on promoting soft power.What does this mean for Yala and other provinces?
Dr. Somchai Wongsim: Soft power refers to a country’s ability to influence others through culture, values, and policies rather than coercion. By promoting the unique potential of each province, the government is not only boosting local pride but also creating opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. In Yala’s case, its rich Islamic heritage and educational institutions can serve as a model for other regions.This approach aligns with broader strategies to position Thailand as a leader in Southeast Asia.
Sarah Carter: What challenges do you foresee in implementing these initiatives, and what steps should be taken next?
Dr. Somchai Wongsim: While the government’s intentions are commendable, challenges such as resource allocation, teacher training, and community engagement need to be addressed. Sustained investment in infrastructure, scholarships, and curriculum development is crucial. Additionally, involving local communities in the planning process ensures that initiatives are tailored to their specific needs. The Prime Minister’s visit is a good first step, but consistent follow-up and collaboration with stakeholders will be key to achieving long-term success.
