Unregistered Kindergarten in Cherng Talay Raises Oversight Concerns

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

Concerns over educational oversight have surfaced in Phuket as an unregistered kindergarten in Cherng Talay continues to operate and promote itself as a legitimate school without formal approval from the Phuket Provincial Education Area Office (PPEAO). Despite ongoing inquiries, the PPEAO has yet to issue clear guidance on the school's legal status, leaving many questioning the efficacy of education regulation on the island.

The kindergarten, which claims to function as a formal school, lacks official registration. However, despite its unapproved status, the school remains operational, openly advertising its services and raising red flags among stakeholders. Director of the PPEAO, Panna Phromwichian, acknowledged the issue but noted that no legal action had been initiated against the facility. She urged directors to submit necessary documentation for review, though she sidestepped direct queries regarding the school's continued operation.

Previously, the school was shut down for illegal activities at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary site. Yet, it seems little has changed, with its current location listed near Cherng Talay Police Station. The PPEAO was alerted to the school's activities on May 13, but a formal application was only filed by the institution on May 19. Panna did not specify whether this application was a direct instruction from her office.

The situation is further complicated by the identification of over 20 other unauthorised schools in the area, with no closures or legal measures taken thus far. Although Panna claimed that halting the operation of illegal schools is a priority, the kindergarten continues to advertise its services as "Open today" online.

The application for the kindergarten characterizes it as a "nursery caring for young children," which also necessitates approval from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in Phuket. MSDHS officials have confirmed that a site inspection is forthcoming. Chief of MSDHS Phuket, Sompit Srikhamhaeng, stated unequivocally that the school should not operate while awaiting approval.

Despite the challenges in managing unregistered schools, Panna encouraged the public to report any suspicious educational institutions lacking licenses. She provided contact information for the PPEAO, inviting concerned citizens to report directly via phone or email.

As regulatory bodies navigate the complexities of ensuring educational compliance, the case underscores the need for diligent enforcement and oversight to uphold educational standards and safeguard the interests of children on the island.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-06