No devices to study with
Images adapted from: Jatupol Boriboon and Thairath
After postponing the new semester for both schools and universities due to the fear of COVID-19, the Ministry of Education decided that virtual classrooms were the answer.
Unfortunately, not all families can afford this alternative. On 16th May, Facebook user Jatupol Boriboon posted a photo of a grandma and her grandchild along with a heart-wrenching story.
Image credit: Jatupol Boriboon
The grandma went to a mobile phone shop with her grandson to look for a phone that was cheaper than ฿2,000 (~USD63) because that was all she had. She told Mr Boriboon that her grandson needed it to attend online classes.
Knowing that it was impossible to find smartphones that cheap in the store, he kindly told her to visit mobile service shops in case they might have special promotions.
“Most elementary school students don’t have phones. I understand they can also learn through satellite TV, but what if they don’t have one? …this [online study] puts a burden on parents’ back,” said Mr Boriboon.
There’s no further report on the grandma and her grandson.
Netizens showed empathy
The post has since been shared over 170,000 times with more than 23,000 comments, mostly being empathetic towards the family.
A lot of commenters also shared similar experiences while some tried to reach out to the grandma in the story.
Translation: I have 2 children who are at different levels so I had to buy 2 phones for them. It was really difficult.
Translation: It is hard enough to bring home food.
Translation: Not every family has enough money to spend. Some of us, like me, don’t even have time. Please re-consider this.
Translation: How can I contact the family? I’d like to buy him a phone.
Studying from home is a privilege
Image credit: Thairath
After the post went viral, Thai netizens took it to Twitter to discuss the government’s study-from-home policy and how it overlooks financial and social inequalities in society.
In other words, not every family is able to provide the necessary tools like computers or TVs for their children to attend classes online.
Unfortunately, this grandma’s case is not an isolated event as many Thai families have been struggling with this same issue.
The poll made by the Faculty of Education and Development Sciences, Kasetsart University revealed that only 45% of Thai students were ready for online classes. The rest simply didn’t have the necessary devices and tools to work with.
- No computer 66%
- No home internet 57%
- No smartphones 36%
Image credit: Sanook
Furthermore, the National Statistical Office (NSO) disclosed that around 60% of the guardians were worried about their children’s virtual classes. The concern mostly came from the lack of equipment, time, and their own struggle with technology.
Let the teacher know
According to MRG Online, students around Thailand can access lessons through satellite TV channels, websites, and mobile applications.
If parents have any difficulties, it is advisable to let their children’s teacher know so they can work it out together.
Thailand’s new school year normally starts in May, but it has been pushed to 1st July this year.
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