A delegation of leading CBSE school principals from India has been engaging in an educational visit to Bangkok, Thailand, on May 27 and 28, 2024. The delegation is led by Mr. Avinash Shrinivasrao Kulkarni from Loknete Ramsheth Thakur Public School, Kamothe, Navi Mumbai, and includes Dr. Nikita Kothari from Indoscot Global School, Thane, Dr. Deepali Shirgave from VishwaKalyan English Medium School Chikhali, Pune, and Dr. Ashwini Pansare from Abhinav Public School and Junior College, Pune.
On May 27, 2024, the Delegates met with Dr. Kanchulee Punyain, an Educator at the Senior Professionals Level of the Excellence in Science Education Bureau (ESEB), Office of the Basic Education Commission, Ministry of Education, Thailand, and her team. They were also joined by Dr. Mark, an advisory board member of the International Advisory Forum for School Wellbeing (IAFSW), at the ESEB office.
The meeting featured a presentation titled “Inspiring Science: Embedding Authentic STEM Teaching and Learning in the Classroom,” which was highly engaging and provided valuable insights into innovative STEM education practices. Additionally, a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation on the entire Thai education system was delivered, which was described as an eye-opener by the Indian delegates. The commendable performance of Thai students in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) prompted the visitors to reflect on and consider new approaches for enhancing school education in India.
The session concluded with a discussion on potential cooperation, with both parties expressing a strong interest in collaborating on educational fairs and student exchange programs to foster greater international understanding and the exchange of best practices in education.
On May 28, 2024, the visit continued with a meeting with Dr. Pornpun Waitayangkoon, President of IAFSW, and his team to collaborate on empowering Generation Z with future-ready STEM skills. The attendees included Dr. Pornpun Waitayangkoon, Dr. Mark Windale (International Advisory Board, IAFSW), Ms. Jintana Pornraksamane (Vice President, IAFSW), and Mrs. Parichat Puangmanee (Executive Committee Member, IAFSW). The Indian delegation included Mr. Avinash Kulkarni (Team Leader), Dr. Nikita Kothari, Dr. Deepali Shirgave, and Dr. Ashwini Pansare. Online contributions were made by Professor Narendra Deshmukh from India and Dr. John Stiles from the US, member of the International Advisory Board (IAWSF).
This pivotal interaction focused on Embracing and implementing innovative strategies to better equip Gen Z students with the necessary tools and knowledge for the future job market, underscoring a commitment to transforming STEM education across borders.
The visit marks a significant step in fostering educational collaboration between India and Thailand, aiming to enhance STEM education and empower future generations with the skills needed for the evolving job market.