Did you know that the Office of the Vocational Education Commission or OVEC drives Thailand’s economy? It champions vocational excellence. OVEC significantly shapes vocational education in Thailand. It operates under the Ministry of Education.
OVEC focuses on new S-Curve industries. These industries align with Thailand’s national strategies. The office oversees hundreds of vocational training programs. These programs exist in both public and private institutions. They educate around one million students nationwide.
In fiscal year 2022, OVEC implemented two main policies. The first policy aimed to reduce educational inequality. OVEC offers underprivileged students boarding school opportunities. These students can earn an income while studying. OVEC has signed MOUs with over 10000 companies. These are local and national companies. They provide internship programs. Students learn specific skills for market needs. They might even work with the companies after graduation.
The second policy develops vocational education. It strives for higher levels of excellence. OVEC promotes new majors. These majors address demands of new infrastructure. Airports railways electric vehicles and tourism are included. OVEC has established 25 excellence centers nationwide. These adhere to standardized academic guidelines.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges. Vocational students need practice. Online learning can only teach theories. OVEC facilitates onsite practice. It ensures safety in classrooms. Schools offer extra classes during breaks and weekends. They extend assessment periods. This allows students to study all units.
OVEC informs the public about vocational education’s reality. Students can earn a Bachelor’s degree. They can start working with higher wages. A high vocational certificate can lead to a job. Some jobs pay over 20000 baht per month. This applies to certain in-demand fields.
Vocational education offers flexibility. It has three stages of studies. These stages include a vocational certificate a high vocational certificate and a technical Bachelor’s degree. Students can use their qualifications to earn money. They can return to school later.
Student fights are now rare. They occasionally happen in Bangkok schools. Vocational students do volunteer work. They repair vehicles during vacations. They maintain equipment during natural disasters. Many institutions offer training programs. Anyone can master new skills. This helps them advance their careers. There’s a lot of opportunity for everyone.
OVEC plays a crucial role. It establishes VET standards and curricula. Urgent action is needed. This bridges the gap between education and market needs. Individuals gain necessary skills for the digital era. Thailand is embracing lifelong learning. The credit transfer system allows mobility between institutions.
The Ministry of Education receives a large budget. In 2019 it received around 490 billion Thai Baht. This equates to about 20% of the national project.