Showing 1 - 4 of 4
Don't let it rain on your parade
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 02/10/2020
» You may be reading this while staying indoors as the Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rain in a few areas of Bangkok and adjoining provinces until Monday. If the downpour gets you down (on top of pretty much everything in your newsfeed lately), I'm here to lift up your spirits by looking at the light side of heavy rain in Thailand.
Subject(s) (That) Matter
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 24/01/2020
» Two things that recently happened made me wonder about the definition of education in Thailand. First, a uni professor in Phitsanulok drafted a new course called "My Beloved Country" but the board rejected it, saying its purpose isn't in line with that of a general education course. The professor said his subject encourages students to "understand and appreciate their own values, as well as values of others, society, culture and nature". It sounds fine and dandy until you see his list of 18 guest lecturers consisting of controversial figures, some of whom are seen as aligning themselves with the government. So, if you disagree with them, would you be considered disloyal to Thailand or something? Second, Bangkok Governor Aswin Kwanmuang ordered all schools under BMA to have their students sing the royal anthem after they sing the national anthem before classes every morning to remind them of Thailand's three pillars -- nation, religion and monarchy -- which I humbly think the kids are reminded of plenty already.
Am I a Social Media Addict?: Checklist
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 28/06/2019
» This Sunday is Social Media Day and you can read more about it in our cover story. Given millions of social media users in Thailand (and the fact that everyone seems to be glued to their phone screens), why hasn't this day become a thing here already? To celebrate the day, I've come up with a checklist to help you figure whether you're addicted to social media or not.
What's in a Thai name?
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 02/11/2018
» One aspect about Thai culture that many visitors may be curious about or find fascinating is how we are named, as there seem to be some unwritten rules governing it. This week, I would like to shed some light on this unique aspect of Thai culture while airing my grievances with my fellow Thais who have encountered incidents regarding their names. Our struggle is real.