New Thai agency to push education reform

The government is yet to decide how much money should be allocated for the independent state agency.

"It will have its own funds and will have to engage the people," the premier said.

"We will gradually build it up and strengthen it until it is as strong as ThaiHealth."

According to Mr Abhisit, the new educational reform would concentrate on improving the quality of small schools.

"We have found that a large number of small schools have quality problems," Mr Abhisit said, "So, the government is going to engage parents and local administrative bodies in our efforts to improve the quality of small schools. Together, we should be able to solve the problems".

In addition, the reform would also place much weight on improving the quality of teachers and curriculum.

"I think 30 per cent of academic content packed for primary students now is not necessary. Remove this part and children will have more time to explore knowledge outside classrooms," Mr Abhisit said.