“We will develop education for people across all five age groups, in other words from their birth till their retirement years,” Kamol Rodklai, secretary-general of the Education Council, told a conference on Wednesday about the strategy in Phuket.

The event was aimed at fostering understanding of the master plan that will be implemented over two decades.

About 800 teachers attended, as well as representatives of local administrative organisations from 14 southern provinces.

“With this strategy, we aim to ensure all Thais receive quality education throughout their life, a happy life based on the sufficiency economy philosophy, and skills of the 21st century,” he said.

About 11 ministries and 53 educational agencies would help drive the implementation of this strategy.

Asst Prof Anusorn Tamajai, a member of the Education Council’s committee on drawing up the national education strategy, said this plan had addressed the changing environment in the 21st century and would require teachers to instruct their students in not just about knowledge but also life.

Asst Prof Narong Buddhichiwin, a former deputy chairman of the National Reform Council’s committee on educational reform, said a good educational plan could shape the country’s future.

Mayor Somjai Suwansupana said Phuket City had arranged educational services based on the country’s new national education strategy.

“We have had as partners education officials and local entrepreneurs,” she said.

Educational services in her area have emphasises more on morality than pure competency.

“But of course, we have striven to empower children and give them skills needed in jobs,” she said.