Chiang Mai project gives poor children a shot at education

A hilltribe girl has the chance to study in the same way as other Thai students, even though her family does not have enough money to support her.

Chiang Mai Polytechnic College director's special project and Don Chan Temple's abbot provide help for disadvantaged, orphaned and poor children. Chanokporn Lekpaijit, 16, is one of 511 hilltribe students studying at Wat Don Chan School in Chiang Mai's Muang district. She is studying for a vocational certificate in accounting.
"I dream of being an accountant after graduation," she said, adding she would study for a higher degree at the same time if she could. It may not sound as grand as some people's dreams, but to have a good job and earn money for herself and her family is a very great thing for this hilltribe girl.
"My family is poor, but I'm very glad that I have a school where I can study. Studying here, my mother's financial burden has decreased," the Hmong girl said with smile.
There are about 560 students in the school, studying from Prathom 1 to Mathayom 6 and aiming for vocational and higher vocational certificates. College director Chamnan Thammachai said he had started the project for disadvantaged students in May. "I wanted these students to have vocational knowledge so that they would have the chance to get a good job, leading them to a better quality of life," he added.
The project offers training in two fields - accounting and computers.
In addition, the director has assigned some teachers in conjunction with private companies to train students in cooking, baking, computer repairs and playing musical instruments.
Meanwhile, Phra Athikan Anan Anantoe, the abbot of the temple, has supported hilltribe students around the northern region for at least 23 years, including Hmong, Akha, Karen, Yao, Tai Yai (Shan) and Lisu.
He said he wanted to do something good for the country and His Majesty the King. Since the children placed a burden on the country, he had decided to help them.
"Only Thai people's kindness supports these children's expenses. The temple doesn't ask for financial support from any organisation. It's up to organisations and individuals who desire to help," Phra Athikan Anan said.
He has taught the children to follow the King's sufficiency philosophy, instructing them to eat together as well as to learn and live happily in simple conditions.
"The food for the students under the temple's patronage is donated by local people, including vegetables, fruits, seasonings and rice," Phra Athikan Anan said.
The children still need consumer products for daily use, especially washing powder and toothpaste. To offer these or other donations, call 05-324 0184.

Wannapa Phetdee
The Nation
Published on September 10, 2007