In the quiet corridors of Praneel Watchara School, spanning a remarkable 28 years, one can often encounter Somnuek Boopol with his trusty broom in hand. As schools like Praneel in Samut Prakan reverberate with the laughter of children by day, the consistent swish-and-flick of Somnuek’s dutiful maintenance ensures a clean and inviting learning environment. In the wake of an unsettling event, the diligent work of janitors such as Somnuek has been cast into the spotlight. The Education Ministry is keen to rally support for hiring more custodians, not only to maintain order and cleanliness but also to strengthen surveillance efforts within educational compounds.
Following a harrowing episode where a female caretaker, while lending her hand in safeguarding school assets, fell victim to a violent altercation in Chiang Rai’s Muang district, a collaborative initiative between the Education Ministry, the Interior Ministry, and the Royal Thai Police (RTP) has emerged. The incident, which resulted in severe injuries due to an attack by a 38-year-old man, has propelled swift action to revamp security protocols and ensure the sanctity of these spaces of learning.
Historically, teachers across the nation have shouldered the mantle of caretakers, alternating roles to vigilantly protect school property outside their teaching hours. This agreement, shared across other state agencies and sanctified by a cabinet resolution in 1999, has long stood untouched.
But, in a decisive pivot away from antiquated practices, the advent and accessibility of modern surveillance technology, such as the omnipresent CCTV, catalyzed a policy shift. Henceforth, teachers are absolved from this ancillary duty and are encouraged to prioritize their personal safety. No longer will they walk lonely evening vigils — an outdated responsibility now relegated to the annals of history as they may now freely pass the baton of surveillance onto technological advancements.
The Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, ensures teachers that if they do choose to volunteer their time beyond the official hours, their safety must remain paramount — a reminder to lock doors and to seek strength in numbers. The era of solitary custodianship draws to a close under his guidance.
Amidst this transition, attention veers toward the prevalence of CCTV cameras within these institutions, igniting debates about quantity, quality, and effectiveness, particularly in regions where the digital divide challenges the reach of internet connectivity.
To bridge the gap left by the retiring practice, the RTP and Interior Ministry are poised to step in, fortifying the after-hours landscape of schools with their vigilant gaze. As the Education Ministry navigates the nuances of this paradigm shift, coordinating closely with law enforcement, the ultimate objective of safeguarding the educational havens remains clear and statute.
Pol Gen Permpoon reflects on the multifaceted role of law enforcement, equating the defence they provide to schools with that of financial institutions and treasuries — all revered emblems of community edifice and prosperity.
The path towards equilibrium might lie in bolstering the ranks of janitorial and administrative teams, an initiative that has found resonance with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. As educational echelons adjust, the very pillars of the academic environment—teachers, students, janitors—stand united, fortified by communal resolve and governmental oversight in pursuit of a future unmarred by unsolicited disruptions.
Be First to Comment