In theory, problems do not exist in the Thai educational system. In reality, this theory creates many real problems. If a teacher in a Thai school questions this "Mai Bpen Rai" theory of education in any way, that teacher is removed from the position and barred from the school. I can greatly appreciate the desire to help others "save face", but not to have a zero toleration policy for hearing about problems with the schools and preventing improvements. Even great schools and school systems need improvement simply because life is constantly in change. In healthy environments (all types, including schools) constant improvements are necessary to create success, which is a positive response to life. But (by and large), Thai schools do not tolerate any level of questioning so improvements (which involves respectful and intelligent questioning) do not take place.

Thailand will make a big change in 2015 with the opening of the ASEAN Community. This change will de disasterous for the average Thai worker if they do not learn English adequately before this time. According to the ASEAN labor laws, workers from other ASEAN member countires will be able to compete with Thais for jobs in Thailand. The person who has the better job skills AND better command of English will get the job. This will a huge departure from the days when Thais had (and will have until 2015) preference over foreigners in terms of getting jobs.

I hope that Thais learn English soon so they are competitive when 2015 arrives. This requires a healthy and respectful toleration of problems. Thailand does not know have this toleration, but instead a demand for blind obedience to educators who say that problems (conflict) cannot exist in schools. What is really happening is that more problems are created and this brings Thailand closer to achieving last place in the ASEAN Community and many, many more problems in Thailand.

A very sad state of affairs, which I hope can be eliminated quickly and productively.

Doug