BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is leveraging Thailand’s role as host of the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings to strengthen international cooperation on education and human capital development, with a focus on improving skills and employment opportunities for young people. Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn stated that Thailand will host the meetings in Bangkok from October 12 to 18, creating opportunities to exchange knowledge and strengthen cooperation with international partners.
The Ministry of Education is working with the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) and the World Bank under a five-year memorandum of understanding to strengthen vocational education, develop teachers, and expand educational opportunities for young people. The Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) will extend this cooperation to vocational institutions nationwide, focusing on skills that meet labor market needs, such as vocational expertise, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and digital capabilities.
The EEF will support access to education for young people from low-income households, vulnerable groups, and remote communities. The World Bank will provide international expertise that can be adapted to Thailand’s education system. The spokesperson emphasized that vocational education is a key pathway for developing practical skills and improving employment opportunities. Educational institutions are encouraged to align curricula and teaching methods more closely with evolving workplace demands.
Thailand also aims to use the Annual Meetings to foster long-term cooperation in education and workforce development, supporting broader access to quality learning and sustainable economic growth. (NNT)
