Bangkok: “Chairman Sophon” is inspiring Gen Z to steer clear of drugs as he kicks off “Debate Session 3,” a creative initiative designed to engage young individuals in legislative activities, offering over 500,000 baht in prize money. House Speaker Sophon Saram has directed House Secretary-General Siroj Paetphan, who chairs the Committee for Creative Social Debate Activities at the Parliament Radio and Television Station for fiscal year 2026, to continue these activities. The goal is to instill drug-free values in youth while providing them with a platform to showcase their potential in legislative matters.
According to Thai News Agency, during the first committee meeting, the successful outcomes of the first and second “Debate Sessions” in fiscal years 2024-2025 were highlighted. These sessions offered a platform for high school students to express themselves, with the first session featuring participation from 85 schools and the second session expanding to 121 schools, marking a 42% increase.
This initiative has garnered additional support from the National Savings Fund (NSF), with discussions held with partners for proactive public relations, including the Ministry of Education, the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC), and the Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC).
For 2026, the meeting approved criteria for applicants: teams must consist of four high school or vocational school students, with up to two reserve players. Applications will be accepted from May 18th to June 30th, 2026, with public announcements beginning on May 9th. The final 16 teams will be announced in late July, and the competition will take place in August and September 2026.
The meeting also approved the first round of discussions on the topic, “Families are more effective at preventing drug abuse than educational institutions.” This year’s event offers a total prize money of 520,000 baht, distributed as follows: 1st prize of 100,000 baht, 2nd prize of 80,000 baht, 3rd prize of 60,000 baht, 4th prize of 40,000 baht, and 12 consolation prizes of 20,000 baht each.
Students and educational institutions interested in participating can find detailed information through the Parliament Radio and Television’s radio, television, and social media channels starting May 9th.