Office of Education Council Secretary General Dr.Anek Permvongseni has stated after his participation in the ASEAN +3 meeting concerning foreign languages in the region that researches show Thailand is having a problem with its educational system. Studies find that Thai students’ English language competency is inferior to those of other ASEAN countries.
Moreover, Thailand does not have a clear or specific strategy in achieving the goal of English learning. As a result, the ONEC will urgently adjust the country’s educational structure so that Thai students will be ready when ASEAN community is introduced in 2015. The reform will focus on a more concrete and practical language learning system as well as embedding the use of English language in Thai students’ minds.
Dr. Anek added that in 3 years’ time, knowing 2 languages will not be enough for Thai people. There will be more competitions within the ASEAN region. Therefore, Thai people will need to understand 1 more language other than Thai and English.
