Bangkok:Prasert Chantharawongthong, the Minister of Education, is considering a review of mobile phone usage in schools following incidents of bullying through social media platforms. The Minister highlighted the need to investigate the use of OpenChat in schools as a tool for bullying, stressing the availability of complaint channels for affected students.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasert addressed the recurring issue of bullying via social media and emphasized the role of the Ministry of Education's Center for Rights and Safety in Educational Institutions. The Ministry also employs psychologists to assist in resolving bullying issues within schools.
The Ministry is currently assessing the appropriateness of social media use in schools, as most students own mobile phones. Schools, recognized as legal entities, will have the autonomy to establish their own guidelines. This initiative is part of a broader student safety policy aimed at preventing inappropriate behavior stemming from bullying.
Additionally, the Ministry of Education is collaborating with other agencies, including the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and various universities, to address the bullying problem collectively.
Mr. Prasert recognized the frequent occurrence of social media bullying and affirmed the existence of a complaint center and a coordination mechanism that involves schools, parents, teachers, students, and student networks. These channels are intended to provide children with the means to seek help, especially for those uncomfortable discussing issues with teachers or parents directly.