Thailand Hosts Global STEM Camp: Scholarships Await
Bangkok—Thailand is launching an ambitious overseas summer camp program for high school students to enhance their global competitiveness. This program serves as a crucial precursor to the One District One Scholarship (ODOS) policy, designed to provide Thai youth with opportunities for higher education abroad. The announcement, made last Thursday, is part of a Ministry of Education effort to address challenges faced by previous scholarship recipients.
According to Siripong Angkasakulkiat, assistant to Education Minister Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, the ODOS summer camp targets Mathayom 4 (Grade 10) students nationwide. The six-week program immerses students in a foreign environment, bridging the gap between Thai and international education and providing invaluable experience. This directly addresses issues encountered by past ODOS scholars, many of whom struggled to complete their studies due to language barriers and cultural differences. The summer camp aims to mitigate these challenges through a gentler introduction to international life.
This program is more than a summer vacation; it’s a strategic investment in Thailand’s future. As Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra explained, it represents an important step in the personal development of young Thais, equipping them with the skills and adaptability needed to thrive in a globalized world. It aims to instill global citizenship and prepare students for representing their country internationally.
The summer camp is open to Mathayom 4 students up to 19 years old from all 928 districts across Thailand, including Bangkok. Applications are open from March 24th to May 16th via the Tang Rat application.
While the Ministry of Education fully supports the ODOS initiative, implementation this year rests primarily with the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) and the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC). These organizations will collaborate to ensure the program’s success. Funding for the scholarships is provided by the Government Lottery Office, with oversight by the EEF, ensuring transparent and equitable distribution.
The ODOS program emphasizes STEM fields—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This aligns with global trends and the demand for skilled professionals in these areas. By providing opportunities for Thai students to pursue STEM education abroad, the government invests in the long-term development of its workforce and fosters innovation. This summer camp initiative is a significant step in realizing the potential of Thai students and preparing them for the competitive global landscape. It underscores the government’s commitment to equitable access to quality education and empowering its youth to become leaders.
