On 9 September 2026, Assoc. Prof. Issara Kanjug, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Education, Khon Kaen University (KKU), presented policy recommendations for a “National Learning Ecosystem” to a Senate consultation forum held at Parliament House in Bangkok. His proposals focused on connecting learning innovation, lifelong learning, and continuous teacher development to improve educational quality and equity across Thailand.
Invited as an expert panellist, Assoc. Prof. Kanjug discussed policy mechanisms for strengthening the promotion of learning, private education, special education, and educational equity. The Senate Committee on Education, Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation organised the forum.
During the discussion, he highlighted practical achievements by the Faculty of Education and Khon Kaen University Demonstration School, to show how evidence from local educational practice can inform national policy.
He emphasised that Thailand’s educational challenges cannot be solved simply by launching more projects. His proposal called for a coherent National Learning Ecosystem that integrates three essential dimensions.
The first, Learning Innovation, shifts the focus from technological tools to active learning processes, measuring success by the competencies learners develop. The second, Lifelong Learning, supports learning at every age, anywhere and at any time, using mechanisms such as credit banks and micro-credentials to widen equitable access to education. The third, Teacher Development, empowers teachers to lead change and remain lifelong learners throughout their careers.
To translate these priorities into practice, Assoc. Prof. Kanjug introduced the “Lifelong Teacher” framework, a continuous development cycle that helps teachers stay professionally relevant and leave a lasting impact on learners. The framework comprises five stages:
- CHARGE: Assess competencies and identify skill gaps using AI.
- LEARN: Develop new skills through flexible learning and practical experience.
- APPLY: Put learning innovations into practice in the classroom.
- TRACK: Monitor and analyse learning outcomes using AI analytics.
- GROW: Connect professional development with academic standing and career advancement.
“Advancing national education policy requires a systematic understanding of the whole picture,” said Assoc. Prof. Kanjug. “The Faculty of Education and Khon Kaen University Demonstration School are committed to serving as a local Learning Lab, where learning innovations are tested in practice and generate concrete evidence that can inform national policy recommendations.”
“Presenting these ideas to the Senate is an important step in connecting academic knowledge with policymaking to advance educational equity and create lasting value for society,” he added.
Through these proposals, the Faculty of Education reaffirmed its commitment to advancing educational innovation and contributing academic expertise to national policy. By connecting classroom practice, teacher development, and accessible learning pathways, the Faculty aims to raise the quality of Thai education and widen access to lifelong learning for everyone.
