Thailand is currently facing serious labor shortages, largely due to a lack of quality education and proper infrastructure for students. A strong education system is the foundation of a skilled workforce, which is essential for driving economic growth. Recent reports show that nearly two-thirds of Thai youth and adults do not meet the minimum standard for basic reading skills, and three-quarters fall below the standard in digital skills — clear signs that the education system is struggling to prepare students for the workforce¹. This skills gap contributes directly to labor shortages across key industries².
Although Thailand’s government places a high priority on education, budget constraints have led to diminished educational standards, poor-quality infrastructure, and limited access to quality education. Thailand spends only about 2.6% of its GDP on education, below regional averages, and many schools continue to face shortages of teachers, safe facilities, and modern resources³. By 2023, over 100,000 students from the lowest-income households had dropped out of school due to barriers including inadequate learning materials, poor school facilities, and insufficient family support⁴.
This summer, HXP Builders will construct two classrooms and two bathrooms for a school that currently serves 151 students. The existing building used by the kindergarten is over 45 years old, with termite damage and leaks from the ceiling. The second floor is no longer usable. These classrooms will benefit 27 kindergarten students and improve their learning experience. It will be an incredible opportunity for Builders to connect and serve with the community.
Sources:
¹ World Bank
² World Bank Enterprise Surveys
³ OECD
⁴ EEF