Bangkok administration asked to settle its 40 billion baht debt with BTS

14 Sept 02:09 Key points summarised by AI

BTS Group Holdings Plc. is demanding the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) settle a 40 billion baht debt for operating the second extension of the Green Line train project over three years.
The debt arose from BTS's investment in system installation and operation, with the company continuing services despite not collecting fares due to legal problems and disagreements.
BTS Chairman Keeree Kanjanapas highlighted the financial strain from daily interest charges on borrowed funds, while Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt assured settlement but emphasized adherence to proper legal processes.
Governor Sittipunt noted unresolved legal issues, specifically questioning whether the City Council approved the contract for BTS's services and the transfer of the extension's infrastructure to the BMA, potentially requiring a new contract.

Examining Thailand’s four-part education revolution

Today 14:22 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Education Ministry is implementing a four-pronged strategy to address its students' below-average performance in PISA 2025 and tackle significant educational inequality.
The plan prioritizes closing performance gaps by increasing funding for small and low-income schools, overhauling the curriculum to foster critical thinking, and adopting a data-driven management system to reduce teacher workload.
Key initiatives include enhancing school safety, combating cyberbullying, and expanding mental health support through peer-to-peer networks, recognizing the severe impact of distress on academic performance.
An education expert advises verifying if PISA improvements stem from structural changes, advocating for a revived STEM curriculum with practical 'learn by doing' methods, and urging bureaucratic reform to link teacher evaluations to student development.