The Thai Cabinet has approved an annual budget for the fiscal year 2023, designating 346.7 million baht to provide monthly stipends for 3,320 educators within the Buddhist Dharma community.
The announcement was delivered by Puangpetch Chunlaiad, who serves as the Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office.
In response to directives from Prime Minister Srettha Taweesin, Minister Puangpetch began a nationwide tour of various temples to actively engage with the clergy, listening to their concerns and suggestions. The allocated funds are intended to address pressing financial needs within Buddhist education, which have long been overlooked, resulting in significant challenges in its administration.
Phraraj Wachirasarnbandit, the Deputy Dean of Planning and Development at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, has affirmed the government’s commitment to not only resolving this particular issue but also tackling other obstacles faced by the clergy.
The regional clergy has expressed its gratitude for the government’s focus and support for the education of monks and novices, pledging a swift and effective implementation to alleviate longstanding issues. (NNT)
