Yotsanan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, is moving forward with a major renovation of the planetarium. The project links universities across the country to open free learning spaces for people of all ages. Whether facing poverty or a lack of motivation, anyone can come here to start finding new inspiration.
On 18 May 2026, Yotsanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, together with Prasert Chantraruangthong, Minister of Education, jointly opened the kickoff event for “From Museum to Lifelong Learning Ecosystem Center” and a meeting of the working group to develop and upgrade the Science Learning Promotion Center (Bangkok Planetarium) into a model lifelong learning center at the Science Learning Promotion Center.
Yotsanan stated that moving beyond the traditional concept of a “museum” toward creating a lifelong learning ecosystem is a significant milestone. The focus is outcome-based, emphasizing the potential and direction of learners after completion. This advancement requires integrated collaboration across multiple sectors. The planetarium has historically inspired people across Thailand. Good education must begin by encouraging youth to think boldly, act confidently, and dream ambitiously, most importantly by instilling hope that their dreams can come true, thus motivating them to overcome challenges.
Yotsanan added that in the context of rapidly changing technology, the definition of the planetarium must be redefined—not just as a space for children but as an open space for workers, disadvantaged groups, or those who have lost jobs to find inspiration to start new lives or careers at any age. Given the large population, a single location is insufficient. Success depends on linking with nationwide partners such as the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organization), school libraries, and private sector learning centers. Learning will be expanded to provinces nationwide to distribute opportunities widely and ensure easy access.
“This collaboration will mark a key milestone in distilling diverse knowledge across various professions into practical application. It will connect curricula with all levels of education—including vocational education, the Office of the Basic Education Commission, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and higher education institutions—to provide opportunities and promote equality for students in remote areas and inspire hope for all young people,” he said.
Also attending the event were Akaranat Kankittinan, Deputy Minister of Education; Suthep Kaengsantia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education; Danuporn Punnakan, Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Dentist Sriyada Palimapant, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Chatrin Janhom, Secretary to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; and Ketsadee Supawanich, Director-General of the Department of Learning Promotion, along with executives from partner agencies participating in this important kickoff.