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Bangkok Governor Announces Free Education Policy for 437 City-Run Schools
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a policy to eliminate school maintenance fees across all 437 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to reduce financial burdens on parents.
On August 10, 2026, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, accompanied by Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon, announced a new initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to education within the capital. The policy mandates that all 437 schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will operate under a 'free education' model, effectively removing school maintenance fees for parents.
According to Khaosod Online, the initiative is designed to alleviate the financial strain on families and reduce educational inequality. The BMA plans to provide comprehensive support, covering essential costs such as uniforms and educational equipment, to ensure that students can attend school without hidden expenses. This announcement was made during a meeting at the Bangkok City Hall regarding urban quality of life and housing solutions.
For residents and long-term expatriates, this policy shift is significant as it aims to lower the cost of living for families residing in Bangkok. By removing these fees, the city hopes to provide a more accessible public education system. However, while the Governor has outlined the intent to eliminate these costs, specific details regarding the full implementation timeline and the complete list of covered welfare items remain to be finalized. Parents are encouraged to monitor official BMA announcements for further updates on how these changes will be applied to individual schools.