15-6-2023 (BANGKOK) Thanalop “Yok” Phalanchai, the 15-year-old activist who was released from a juvenile centre in Nakhon Pathom province on a royal defamation charge on May 18, has the opportunity to resume her studies at school on the condition that she adheres to the rules, as stated by the Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec).
According to Obec secretary-general Amporn Pinasa, Yok had successfully passed the entrance examination for Mathayom 4 (Grade 10) at Triam Udom Suksa Pattanakarn School, and the orientation day was initially scheduled for April 2. However, due to her detention at the juvenile center since March 29, she was unable to attend the orientation.
Nonetheless, the school had reserved Yok’s seat and extended the deadline for her to present herself for studies until June 10, which was the final date for student data submission to the commission.
Regrettably, Yok did not appear, resulting in her name being absent from the system, according to Mr Amporn.
“While the school maintains that Yok can attend classes as usual, she needs to abide by school regulations,” Mr Amporn explained. The young activist has been wearing casual outfits to school, asserting that it is her right and freedom.
“I hope people understand that school regulations are established through a public hearing attended by teachers, students, and parents. Therefore, everyone accepts these rules before enrolling here,” he stated.
“However, Yok can opt for alternative learning channels, such as homeschooling, if she disagrees.”
Regarding student uniforms, Mr Amporn clarified that the Ministry of Education has issued ministerial regulations as guidelines, but individual schools have the autonomy to establish their own rules, including provisions for casual outfits once a week.
“School is intended to be a place where we nurture children to become good individuals who can coexist in society under a common set of rules, similar to a country governed by a constitution,” Mr Amporn emphasized.
