Thailand’s Multidimensional Poverty Index lowest in ASEAN

14 Sept 02:51 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand achieved the lowest Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) in ASEAN at 0.002, as per a 2019 UNDP and OPHI report, indicating an improved economy.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed existing vulnerabilities and exacerbated poverty, particularly highlighting traditional inequalities among ethnic groups and women.
Progress was noted with 176,000 people moving above the poverty line due to improved access to basic utilities like sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, and better education and nutrition.
The report emphasizes that multidimensional poverty is higher than financial poverty, meaning individuals above the income poverty line may still face significant difficulties in health, education, or quality of life.
The UN advocates for comprehensive poverty eradication policies and a rethinking of post-COVID-19 recovery strategies, prioritizing fairness and equality to address these complex challenges.

Uthenthawai students and alumni declare truce with Pathumwan rivals

Yesterday 20:34 Key points summarised by AI

Uthenthawai students and alumni have pledged to cease violent clashes with Pathumwan Institute rivals, coinciding with their campus's reopening after a 90-day closure.
The Minister of Higher Education is mediating the long-running conflict, while the campus closure has significantly disrupted in-person classes and laboratory work for over 1,000 students.
Uthenthawai resists relocation from its current site, citing a historical land grant from King Rama VI, despite Chulalongkorn University's plans to reclaim the land for an educational hub.
Concerns are mounting over the legality of the campus closure, its detrimental impact on uninvolved students, and the potential commercial development of the land, which critics argue contradicts the late King Rama VI's intentions.