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The National Digital Economy and Society Commission (NDESC) under the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is actively spearheading initiatives to enhance digital literacy and media and information literacy among various segments of the population in Thailand. This strategic effort is aligned with the government’s commitment to leveraging digital technology for the benefit of the people and society, as well as in commemoration of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on 28 July 2024.
One vital focal point of the NDESC’s efforts is the development of training programmes tailored to vulnerable groups and the general population. These programmes aim to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape effectively, thus enhancing their quality of life and opening up new avenues for income generation. The training emphasises digital literacy, media literacy, and information literacy, enabling individuals to use digital tools creatively and responsibly.
In a recent initiative, the NDESC organised training sessions for older people at the Khao Phra Ngam Subdistrict Municipality Elderly School in Lopburi Province. This programme marked the beginning of a series of activities aimed at enhancing the digital competency of the population, preparing them to become proficient digital citizens. The training focused on a curriculum designed to promote and develop digital literacy, as well as skills relevant to the digital age, ensuring that participants are well-versed in safeguarding themselves in the digital world and can effectively communicate on social media platforms.
Looking ahead, the NDESC has ambitious plans to expand its training programmes to include other vulnerable groups, such as women, children, youth, parents, guardians of people with disabilities, and the general public. The goal is to reach a total of 10,000 individuals through a combination of on-site and online training sessions.
The on-site sessions will be conducted in 25 senior citizen training sessions and 20 sessions for the general public, while the online training will cater to 8,000 participants from across the country. This comprehensive approach underscores the NDESC’s commitment to ensuring that all segments of society are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
Furthermore, Mr Phuchapong Nodthaisong, Secretary-General of the National Digital Economy and Society Committee, is playing a pivotal role in advancing the digital agenda in Thailand. As a lecturer in the “Leaders in Promoting Smart Cities” course, part of the Smart City Leadership Programme, Mr Nodthaisong is imparting knowledge on national policies and plans for digital development. The course is designed for senior executives in both the public and private sectors, with a focus on driving digital technology for economic and societal growth.
Mr Nodthaisong’s lectures cover a range of essential topics, including the Digital Development Fund for Economy and Society (DE Fund). This fund plays a crucial role in supporting projects that leverage digital technology to enhance the quality of life for Thai citizens. By providing examples of successful projects and outlining the strategic direction of the country’s technology development, Mr Nodthaisong is equipping leaders with the knowledge and insights needed to develop and build smart cities that harness the full potential of digital technology.
The NDESC’s efforts to enhance digital literacy and media and information literacy among various segments of the population in Thailand are commendable. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape effectively, these initiatives are empowering citizens to take full advantage of the benefits of digital technology.
Through targeted training programmes and strategic partnerships, the NDESC is laying the foundation for a digitally literate and empowered population that can contribute to Thailand’s continued growth and development in the digital age.
