The government spokesperson announced that the Prime Minister praised 9-year-old “Nong Pace,” a Grade 3 student from Phuket, for winning the world coding championship in programming held in Italy. He emphasized that the government is ready to create opportunities for Thai children and believes in the potential of Thai youth.
On 17 July 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, disclosed that before attending the World AI Conference in Shanghai, People's Republic of China, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul learned of the success of “Nong Pace,” or Pawin Patanavekin, a 9-year-old Grade 3 student from Phuket. He won two world championship titles at The International STEM Olympiad & Coding Olympiad 2026 finals held in Rome, Italy, defeating more than 38,000 contestants from 153 countries and over 1,700 schools worldwide.
The Prime Minister expressed his congratulations and admiration for Nong Pace’s talent, perseverance, and determination. He also extended his congratulations to the family, teachers, and all supporters who played a crucial role in enabling Thai youth to showcase their potential on the international stage.
The Prime Minister stated that Nong Pace’s achievement proves that “Thai children have potential equal to any nation in the world” if given appropriate opportunities and encouragement. He sent words of encouragement to all Thai children and youth to have confidence, think boldly, create, and never stop learning. He noted that the modern world offers opportunities where talent and effort lead to success, regardless of where one is born or raised. This aligns with his attendance at the World AI Conference 2026 to seek collaborations in science and new opportunities for Thailand.
“The government congratulates Nong Pace for bringing honor and pride to Thailand. This achievement will inspire many Thai children to see that with determination and good opportunities, they too can reach the global stage,” the Prime Minister said.
Ms. Ratchada stated that the government prioritizes developing youth potential in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as artificial intelligence (AI), to prepare the workforce for the future economy. The government will continue integrating efforts among the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and Ministry of Education to expand access to technology education for Thai children and youth nationwide.
Nong Pace won both world championship titles at this competition at only 9 years old, competing against participants ranging from Grade 3 to high school levels. He has also won awards in coding, mathematics, and science competitions at various events, including three gold medals at a competition in New York last year. This reflects the potential of Thai youth to excel globally when given proper support and opportunities.
