Thailand has announced a strategic initiative aimed at cultivating a robust workforce of 280,000 professionals in advanced industries over the next five years, positioning itself as a burgeoning high-tech hub. This ambitious goal, unveiled by the government on Monday, underscores Thailand’s commitment to fostering innovation and attracting new investments, Bangkok Post reported.
According to official statements, the government targets specific sectors for workforce development, including 80,000 individuals in semiconductors, 150,000 in electric vehicles (EVs), and 50,000 in artificial intelligence (AI). Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasised Thailand’s solid foundation in these advanced technologies, highlighting their pivotal role in replacing outdated innovations.
“I encourage all Thai citizens eager to expand their knowledge and skills to participate in these programs,” remarked Deputy Prime Minister Anutin. “Together, we can prepare for careers in high-tech industries and contribute to reshaping our industrial landscape.”
Supamas Issaraphakdee, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, detailed the government’s comprehensive approach to workforce development. This encompasses fostering talent across various levels, from skilled industrial workers to researchers and recent graduates. Such initiatives are poised to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness in the global technological arena.
While specific financial projections were not disclosed, the government affirmed its commitment to supporting this transformation through an array of measures. These include the implementation of numerous high-tech training courses and a generous 250% tax deduction incentive for companies sending employees to participate in these educational programs. Such incentives aim to stimulate corporate involvement and accelerate the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving Thailand’s technological evolution.
The consistent emphasis of Thailand in creating a significant human capital in the advanced sectors is a significant move towards the attainment of the nation’s aspiration of being a technology-advanced country. Educational, training and supportive policies introduced in the Thailand’s Gross Domestic Product plan will help the country to create real breakthrough in the form of new economic development model based on such technologies as EVs and AI.