Yotsanan advances two urgent policies linking 13-digit Big Data to close gaps in neglected child development, coupled with strict rules banning academic competitions for young children, aiming to shift from "rote memorization" to "learning through play," restoring happiness and reducing pressure.
On 6 Aug 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), chaired the 2/2026 Early Childhood Development Policy Committee meeting. Mr. Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), and related agencies attended to accelerate policies establishing a strong foundation for the country through early childhood development.
Mr. Yotsanan revealed that investing in children today builds a stable future for Thailand. The meeting discussed urgent issues requiring coordinated, concrete action across agencies, focusing on two main points considered key steps in transforming Thailand's early childhood care system.
The first point is creating a unified early childhood database by integrating data cooperation among the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and Ministry of Education. This links children's data from birth via the 13-digit national ID number. This connection enables the government to provide precise and targeted care. Children and families receive continuous support; if delays or risks are detected, the system alerts for immediate assistance, ensuring no child is overlooked. It also reduces redundant data collection burdens, allowing teachers and medical staff to focus fully on child care. Furthermore, it helps the government allocate budgets and deploy personnel to target areas with maximum efficiency.
The second point is enforcing strict measures to prevent academic competitions for young children, recognizing that this age group learns through play rather than rote memorization. This policy aims to restore happiness and age-appropriate development by removing undue stress and pressure, allowing brains and minds to grow through suitable learning under the "Invite to reduce, invite to play, invite to know" approach. Additionally, it helps parents reduce anxiety and hidden costs from tutoring, encouraging time spent on proper developmental activities. Schools and teachers can then focus on organizing activities and closely monitoring children's development without stress or concern over exam preparation.
Mr. Yotsanan emphasized that pushing these initiatives is a collective effort to create an environment where Thai children grow up with the highest quality. Every moment in early childhood is a golden opportunity to develop "human capital" that forms a strong foundation for the country's future development.