Bangkok university under fire for substandard aircraft repair course

A Bangkok university is under intense scrutiny following allegations of offering a substandard aircraft repair technician course, charging nearly 1 million baht in total fees. The Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Ministry has launched a formal investigation into the matter.

Supamas Isarabhakdi, the minister, directed the ministry’s permanent secretary, Supachai Pathumnakul, to establish an investigative team. This action follows a public disclosure by Weerachai Phutthawong, a lecturer at Kasetsart University, who raised the issue on his Facebook page yesterday, October 22, after receiving complaints from students enrolled in the course.

Students reported that the university guaranteed them a degree upon payment of the full course fee. They alleged that despite the hefty enrolment fee of 500,000 baht (US$14,880), plus an additional 500,000 baht in hidden costs, classes were frequently cancelled.

The university’s course brochure claimed that graduates would receive a certificate accredited by the European Aviation Safety Agency. However, graduates reported receiving certificates from a private company that provided part of their training, which they said were not recognised by employers, reported Bangkok Post.

“No employer would hire holders of such certificates,” said Weerachai, quoting the graduates.

In related news, drama erupted among education professionals after an education centre director in the Isaan province of Surin was transferred to a better position, despite allegations of dereliction of duty.

The alleged misuse of power and inappropriate behaviour of a female education centre director, Nittaya Phupanna, came to light after the Facebook page, Watchdog Anti-corruption Organisation of Thailand, shared a picture and story about the official on September 18. The page stated in its caption:

“This non-formal and informal education centre director waits for her salary payment at home without working or attending the office. She works ‘non-formally and informally’ under her own pressure. She comes to work only when there is a major meeting or event, which is one to two times a month. This is happening in Srinarong district, Surin province.”