Bangkok, December 12, 2023 – The Equitable Education Fund (EEF) extends a warm invitation to the media and all interested parties to join an international online webinar, the theme of which is “Unlock the Door of Opportunities. Unleash the Potential of Disadvantaged Youth. From Skills Training to Employment: An innovative solution by REACH,” scheduled for Wednesday, December 20, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

A substantial number of disadvantaged youths, if given opportunities to participate in the workforce, will play an active role in the economic growth of our nation. This is especially crucial in a demographic landscape characterized by a rising elderly population alongside a notable decline in birth rates. Yet, these youths often grapple with financial constraints and a lack of access to educational and social services. They comprise marginalized groups such as refugees, migrants, and individuals with disabilities or learning difficulties who find it challenging to navigate the conventional education system. Consequently, they miss out on acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary for inclusive living in society, earning a living, and becoming an independent and contributing unit of society.

The creation of “opportunities” through targeted professional skills training and essential employment skills is crucial for these youths. This endeavor not only facilitates job placement and income generation but also elevates their overall quality of life. Additionally, it unleashes the untapped potential of the emerging workforce, propelling both the economy and society forward.

In this enlightening webinar, Mr. Stanley Jones, Director of Strategy and Project Development at REACH in Hanoi, will present an all-encompassing training model. This model spans various dimensions, from trainee selection based on aptitude to comprehensive readiness preparation, internships, job trials, job placement, and ongoing monitoring. This collaborative initiative with the private sector, serving as a strategic partner, has garnered international recognition through numerous prestigious awards. However, the true measure of success lies in the improved lives and newfound pride of disadvantaged Vietnamese youths who have successfully completed the training program.

Next, Mr. Phuree Smittinet, Project Manager from “Sarn Palung Social Enterprise” will share the success story of creating employment opportunities for the hearing-impaired in the “Cafe Amazon for Chance” project, spanning across Thailand and Cambodia. Facilitating the discussion is Asst. Prof. Dr. Chanisa Tantixalerm from the Faculty of Education at Chulalongkorn University, who specializes in researching the transformative journey towards employment for students with special needs in Thai vocational schools.

We extend a heartfelt invitation to the media and all interested individuals to actively participate in this webinar. For those wishing to join, please connect via Zoom Meeting for live bilingual translation or tune in via Facebook Live @EEFthailand and EEF Inter-Forums Media (without Thai translation). To secure your participation, please register here at the Participant Registration Form (google.com)

About Equitable Education Fund (EEF):

The Equitable Education Fund (EEF), Thailand was established under the Equitable Education Act 2018. The objective of the Act is to provide financial support for children and youth who are in greatest need, reduce educational inequality by forming partnership with different groups and conducting systematic research to support and develop teachers’ effectiveness. For more information about the Equitable Education Fund and the EEF International Forums, please visit https://en.eef.or.th/.

About EEF International Forums:

EEF International Forums serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, experience, views, and innovations related to education and vocational training for disadvantaged children and youths. Since its inception in 2019, the project has successfully organized on-site and online seminars, featuring speakers from various countries. The online events are broadcast via Zoom and Facebook Live, with seminar videos available for later viewing on Facebook and YouTube. For more information about the Equitable Education Fund and the EEF International Forums, please visit https://www.facebook.com/EEFInterForums?mibextid=ZbWKwL and EEF International Forums – EEF – Equitable Education Fund