Prasert, Minister of Education, is preparing to explain to the Cabinet a request to revise the state welfare card criteria to lift restrictions that cut rights for non-formal education students. He urges those who have dropped out to return, stressing that the Ministry of Education must protect rights and does not want anyone to fall out of the education system.
At 09:20 on 21 July 2026 at the Government House, Prasert Chantrawongthong, Minister of Education, spoke before the Cabinet meeting regarding non-formal education students who have dropped out to maintain eligibility for the state welfare card. He said the issue will be discussed at the Cabinet meeting to consider how to adjust the criteria to provide assistance. Students are a group that requires care, as those studying in the non-formal system vary in age. He has already raised this matter with the Prime Minister and Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, during official duties in China. Details will be addressed today.
Regarding non-formal education students who have previously dropped out, he appealed for them to re-enroll, emphasizing the desire to keep everyone within the education system. The government is working on a solution. He understands their concerns and will make necessary adjustments where possible. The number of dropouts is still being verified out of a total of 200,000 non-formal education students. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to encourage those who dropped out to return promptly. He reiterated that the Ministry of Education does not want anyone to leave due to issues like this, as education is vital. The Ministry is committed to protecting rights to enable these students to continue their studies. All relevant information has been prepared for presentation at today's Cabinet meeting.