Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

 

Despite a recent ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, over 900 Thai schools near the border remain closed after nearly two months of hostilities, impacting countless lives and disrupting education for thousands of children.

 

The clashes, which started on 28 May at Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani, have resulted in numerous casualties on both sides, including children. In response, Thailand’s Education Ministry announced that schools along the border would not reopen until the safety of students and teachers is assured.

 

According to the ministry, the violence has led to the evacuation of approximately 188,734 individuals from the border provinces, including Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Ubon Ratchathani, Sa Kaeo, Trat, and Chanthaburi. Many evacuees are school-age children now facing potential setbacks in their education.

 

Assoc Prof Dr Prachuap Chanmuen from Sisaket Rajabhat University highlighted the severe impact of the conflict on children’s daily lives, affecting everything from their schooling to their basic routines such as eating and sleeping.

 

"The psychological effects, though not immediately visible, could lead to lasting fear and insecurity," warned Dr Chanmuen.

 

Kraiyos Patrawart, managing director of the Equitable Education Fund, echoed these sentiments, noting the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children exposed to such violence.

 

At Nachaluay School in Ubon Ratchathani, students were caught in the conflict's crossfire, having heard gunfire during a clash. Thai fighter jets carried out retaliatory strikes against Cambodian military positions after an artillery attack led to the deaths of at least six Thai civilians, including a child.

 

A teacher from Si Sa Ket described the harrowing experience of evacuating young students amidst chaos. "The children were terrified, and despite practising drills, the real situation was overwhelming," she recounted.

 

The Office of Basic Education Commission (OBEC) is stepping in with essential supplies and psychological support at evacuation centres. Teachers have been advised to steer clear of conflict zones until further notice.

 

Although a ceasefire was agreed on 29 July, reports of violations continue, raising doubts about its effectiveness. OBEC Secretary-General Thanu Wongjinda confirmed ongoing assessments with military and security agencies to determine when schools might safely reopen.

 

To address educational disruptions, OBEC is exploring alternatives like televised lessons, printed materials, and online platforms. "We're working on solutions," said Thanu.

 

In collaboration with regional Rajabhat universities and local organisations, the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) is setting up emergency learning centres in Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Buri Ram. These centres aim to provide not just education but also a safe haven for recovery.

 

“These centres offer more than just lessons; they are spaces for healing and rebuilding,” explained Kraiyos. The centres will integrate life skills and resilience-building activities alongside academics. Counselling will be available for distressed children, with serious cases referred to psychiatric experts within the EEF network.

 

Addressing PTSD early is crucial to preventing long-term impacts on children's emotional and social development, Kraiyos noted. “Many might drop out of school if this isn’t tackled,” he warned.

 

To aid emotional recovery, the EEF is introducing therapeutic activities involving music, relationship-building, and creative expression—efforts that they hope to expand to other provinces.

 

With each passing day, the need for a resolution becomes more urgent, as the impact on the region’s future generation continues to deepen.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS 2025-08-01

 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

impacting countless lives and disrupting education for thousands of children.

Most of the children will be better off out in the real world and learning about politics & warfare, rather than wasting their time & their lives in a Thai schoolroom.

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Despite a recent ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, over 900 Thai schools near the border remain closed after nearly two months of hostilities, impacting countless lives and disrupting education for thousands of children.

I dare say it's the same situation both sides of the border, so best if the children sort it out...

and I'm not talking about the school children

Casualty of l pointless " National pride"; senseless war.

 

A pity this discussion regarding emotional harm from school shutdowns wasn't had in 2020 when there was nothing to fear. 

Hun Sen, the gift that keeps on giving.

1 hour ago, black tabby12345 said:

Casualty of l pointless " National pride"; senseless war.

 

it wasnt a war,it was a skirmish, a war usually has 1 winner and 1 loser. This skirmish has 2 winners and 2 loosers !!!

Do not worry most go there only to sleep and not the Roat teachings

11 hours ago, portisaacozzy said:

it wasnt a war,it was a skirmish, a war usually has 1 winner and 1 loser. This skirmish has 2 winners and 2 loosers !!!

 

Battles involving aerial bombings and artillery exchanges.

Not an accidental" discharge of small arms alone.

Example of the Low Intensity War.

 

Doesn't look like any victors; 2 losers, as absolutely no real gains.

Both of them only  suffered losses.