Sihasak Phuangketkeow returns to steer Thai diplomacy

17 Sept 08:09 Key points summarised by AI

Sihasak Phuangketkeow, a seasoned diplomat with over four decades of experience, returns to lead Thai foreign affairs, aiming to restore the country's active role in regional and global affairs.
His extensive career includes key diplomatic postings in major capitals, leadership roles within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and significant contributions to multilateral diplomacy, notably as President of the UN Human Rights Council.
Expected to spearhead efforts to revive economic growth through trade and investment, normalize relations with neighboring countries, and elevate Thailand's international profile.
Known as a "steady hand," his return is anticipated to restore Thailand's voice and diplomatic finesse in international forums, marking a shift from previous personalized policies.

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.