Bangkok: The Ministry of Education has emphasized that it has not cancelled the iconic Boy Scout and Girl Guide uniforms but is instead introducing additional options. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, the Deputy Minister of Education, clarified that the new regulations are almost finalized, allowing schools to review them before the semester begins.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry is revising the regulations concerning the uniforms and attire of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides. The updated guidelines will provide more uniform choices, including both formal and casual options. Schools will have the discretion to decide whether to permit students to wear casual uniforms or the traditional Scout uniforms. In cases where schools face challenges such as climate or parental readiness, they can opt for a casual uniform style, which includes a scarf, woggle, and Scout hat worn with the school or PE uniform, or adapted to local cultural attire.
The decision-making power rests with the schools, as it cannot be imposed. Some schools are not in favor of eliminating the Scout uniform, as they believe it would restrict their autonomy. Many schools still cherish the Scout uniform for its symbolic representation of the Scouts.
The Deputy Minister further explained that the Council of State is nearing completion of the amendment to the Ministerial Regulation. Once finalized, it will be presented to the Cabinet for approval. The Ministry has already communicated these changes to prevent any potential backlash with the approaching school term. The Council of State has confirmed that adding more uniform options is permissible, and schools are now encouraged to determine their preferred dress code.