Three - maybe Four - Kingdoms in the Romance

24 Sept 04:51 Key points summarised by AI

The article posits a shift from a simple two-bloc global order to a more intricate geopolitical landscape, moving beyond the traditional US/Europe versus Russia/China dynamic.
It introduces the concept of a 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms,' where the United States, the European Union, and a combined Russia/China bloc emerge as distinct powers, fueled by growing mistrust between America and Europe.
Further speculation suggests a 'Romance of the Four Kingdoms,' anticipating that Russia and China's individual ambitions could eventually lead to their separation, creating four independent power centers.
The piece explores deeper reasons behind the US-Europe strain, including America's re-evaluation of its financial and strategic commitments and a potential end to its 'philanthropist' role.
Ultimately, the relationship between Europe and America is undergoing a significant transformation, with Europe still needing US support but facing a less influential partnership in an increasingly complex and distrustful global environment.

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.