Thailand urges workers to upgrade their skills

The EEC is a flagship scheme spanning three provinces that the Thai government aims to turn into a high-tech manufacturing hub to boost the kingdom’s industrial competitiveness. 

Tipanan Sirichana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Government, said the industrial hub, which spans Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao, will host manufacturers serving 12 so-called S-curve industries, such as makers of electric vehicles, smart devices, and modern medical equipment.

As such, the government has estimated that at least 475,688 workers will be needed in the EEC’s factories and offices, she said. Specifically, about 16,920 will be needed to support the health and wellness tourism sector, 37,526 for the robotics industry, 116,222 for the digital technology industry; 58,228 for the smart electronics manufacturers; 11,538 for medical services; 14,630 for maritime business; 53,738 for the new-generation carmakers; and 166,992 for logistics and aviation. 

READ: Thailand aims for more smoke-free workplaces

Under the government’s human resource development plan for the EEC, educational institutions have been asked to provide academic courses and vocational courses. 

“When the EEC project is completed, it is estimated that 377 business operators will need personnel who have completed a vocational course, while about 277 businesses will require personnel with a bachelor’s degree,” she said.

As such, the government is seeking the cooperation of 941 education institutions nationwide to help develop Thai workers’ skills to meet the needs of the industries, she said, reported Bangkok Post.