BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s “One Village, One Thai Chef” program, launched under the government’s OFOS (One Family, One Soft Power) policy, has completed its first cohort with results exceeding expectations. Endorsed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the project equips citizens with professional culinary skills, certifying them as Thai chefs and contributing to the growth of the national food economy.
At the closing ceremony on March 21, Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai presented certificates to graduates. The program is led by the Thailand Creative Culture Agency (THACCA) in partnership with the Department of Industrial Promotion under the Ministry of Industry. Training combines e-learning with hands-on modules to meet national standards and prepare participants for careers in the food sector.
In its first year, 1,304 individuals completed the program, with 1,040 earning official culinary certification. A total of 325 instructors also completed a dedicated training course. The Ministry projects that the program will generate no less than 300 million baht in economic value in 2024. By 2030, it is expected to create over 75,000 jobs and contribute more than 5 billion baht to the economy.
With over 50 Thai dishes included in the curriculum, the program is set to enhance local employment, support community income, and raise global appreciation for Thai food. Applications are available through the official OFOS website and the “Thang Rath” mobile app. (NNT)
