Bangkok: Thai people want to learn, but the country is not yet ready for it. OKMD reveals an index clearly indicating that the biggest gap is not 'people' but 'the system,' and urges accelerated efforts to upgrade the Learning Ecosystem towards a learning society.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Tawarut Sutabutr, Director of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD), revealed that the 'OKMD Lifelong Learning Index' survey showed an overall national score of 0.77. The high score in the Learning Mindsets dimension reflects a strong commitment to continuous learning and self-development among Thais. However, significant limitations remain in the Learning Ecosystem and access to infrastructure, particularly the internet and quality learning resources. "Today, the country's challenge isn't simply to motivate Thais to learn, because we already have that, but rather to ensure everyone has equal access to learning. If the system doesn't provide opportunities, people's potential won't be unlocked," he said.
Furthermore, the data reflects significant spatial inequality, with the central region having the highest index value, while some regions are at a lower level, particularly in terms of the learning ecosystem, which is directly linked to the readiness of infrastructure and economic opportunities. Meanwhile, the results of the 'Thailand Lifelong Learning Index (TLLI)' compiled by the Office of the Secretary-General of the Council of Education show that the overall national level is at a 'fair' level (23.96 out of 36 points), with only 7 provinces at a 'good' level. This reflects the overall national picture that urgently needs systemic improvement, demonstrating that learning inequality is not just an issue in education, but is the root cause of economic inequality. If not addressed urgently, this gap will widen and negatively impact the country's competitiveness.
The role of digital technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), is becoming a fundamental tool for learning and creating new boundaries in society. 'AI is no longer a thing of the future, but a skill of the present. People who know how to use AI will learn and develop faster, while those who lack access will be left further behind.'
Dr. Tawarath further stated that, as the country's knowledge development agency, OKMD is systematically driving the 'learning ecosystem' through the development of model learning resources such as TK Park and Museum Siam, expanding regional collaboration networks, and developing the OKMD Knowledge Portal digital platform to enable the public to access knowledge anytime, anywhere. "Our goal is not just to increase the number of learning resources, but to make 'learning' an integral part of life and a crucial asset in creating new opportunities for Thai people. Driving Thailand towards a 'learning society' cannot be achieved by any single agency; it requires cooperation from all sectors - government, private sector, and the public. A competitive country is not one with the most resources, but one where people never stop learning."