BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is set to present a proposal to the Cabinet this week seeking approval for more than 7,200 new scholarships under the Outstanding Development Opportunity Scholarship scheme. Backed by a 4.5-billion-baht budget, the scholarships are intended to help students continue their education in Thailand and overseas, with a focus on developing skills in science, technology, and other priority fields.
The scholarships target students from underprivileged backgrounds with strong academic potential and good conduct. They include 4,800 awards for upper secondary and vocational studies in Thailand, 2,200 for domestic bachelor’s degrees, and 200 for higher education abroad. Overseas placements will be offered in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, with all recipients required to return and work in Thailand after graduation.
The proposed budget includes 990 million baht for secondary and vocational studies, 1 billion baht for domestic degrees, and over 2.6 billion baht for international studies. The funding will come from government allocations and proceeds from a recently approved charity lottery.
Officials say the scholarships are expected to help reduce education inequality and strengthen the workforce by developing skills that support national economic growth. Priority areas include science, technology, and digital industries.
If approved, the scholarships will give thousands of students new learning opportunities while supporting Thailand’s long-term development. (NNT)
