BANGKOK, Thailand – NIDA Poll, in collaboration with the Thailand Education Partnership, has released new survey findings showing that while most Thai parents prefer public schools for their children, many remain concerned about unequal access to quality education. Conducted from May 12 to 14 with 1,310 participants nationwide, the survey gathered public opinions on education access, quality, and equity as schools prepare to reopen.
The results show that nearly one-third of respondents expressed moderate concern about the future of Thai youth in terms of educational access, while over 22% were highly concerned. Around 25 percent reported being only slightly concerned, and about 22% said they were not concerned at all. The findings represent growing awareness of education inequality among Thai families.
When asked which type of school they believed provided the best education, nearly half of the respondents identified public schools. Private schools followed at 26%, with smaller numbers choosing international, demonstration, bilingual, religious, or alternative schools. Homeschooling was selected by less than 1% of participants.
Respondents based their preferences on factors such as teacher quality, modern curricula, affordable tuition, proximity to home, and access to updated learning materials. Many also valued safe environments, supportive school communities, second-language learning opportunities, and schools with strong reputations.
The survey was conducted by telephone using random sampling from NIDA Poll’s national database. It carries a margin of error of no more than 5 percent at a 97% confidence level. The findings suggest parents want better education policies that improve access and ensure quality learning opportunities for all Thai students. (NNT)
