Bangkok: Akranan Kankittinant, the Deputy Minister of Education, has declared a shift from reactive responses to proactive strategies in the protection of rights within the education sector. Announcing the launch of the Center for the Protection of Rights, Freedoms, and Security, Akranan emphasized the commitment to prevent incidents affecting teachers and students, aiming to enhance safety and reduce risks.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Akranan chaired the inaugural meeting of the Center, stressing the need for coordinated efforts among relevant agencies to address public concerns effectively. He outlined that the center's operations should not remain merely a policy framework but must actively engage in receiving requests, coordinating with agencies, and ensuring follow-through on solutions. This integrated approach seeks to benefit the public by reducing incidents and enhancing safety.
Mr. Akranan highlighted that the ultimate goal is to achieve zero incidents by focusing on prevention rather than reaction. He stated, "We shouldn't wait for problems to occur and then try to solve them, but rather focus on preventing problems from happening in the first place."
During the meeting, Mr. Akranan stressed that success should be measured by the speed and effectiveness with which citizens receive assistance, the reduction of problems, and the trust citizens have in government support. He called for the integration of information, coordination, and follow-up across all agencies involved in protecting rights and freedoms.
The meeting also concluded with instructions for agencies to define clear operational structures that would enable systematic reporting, problem resolution, and follow-up, with a focus on reducing incidents impacting public rights and safety.
In a subsequent interview, Mr. Akranan disclosed his assignment by Minister of Education, Mr. Prasert Chantharawongthong, to oversee the center's transition to a proactive operational model. This initiative aims to make the center a reliable public resource and to foster safe environments within schools.
Addressing potential collusion issues in schools, Mr. Akranan mentioned the use of technology such as "Traffy Fondue" to enhance transparency. He assured that unresolved issues would prompt multi-sectoral assistance involving families, parents, and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Mr. Akranan further emphasized that complaints filed through "Traffy Fondue" would prompt investigations if not addressed by schools or districts. Confidentiality for complainants will be maintained, with established indicators and potential penalties for non-compliance, ensuring accountability and transparency in resolving educational sector concerns.