Thailand is relying on foreign workers to fill shortages in 10 key professions in the scientific field, says the National Science Museum (NSM).
Sakorn Chanapaithoon, acting director of the museum, which falls under the Ministry of Science and Technology, yesterday said foreign experts were being hired to plug the gaps, which could result in a lack of opportunities for Thai youngsters.
Medical chemists, petroleum geologists, food scientists, cosmetic scientists, forensic scientists and animators are among those on the shortage list.
Mr Sakorn said that despite these careers playing a pivotal role in developing the country, they were not widely known among Thais.
Even though curricula were available at universities, students opted to study in other fields as they believed they would be in more demand.
Those who complete their studies in the scientific and mathematics fields mostly end up as teachers, he added.
For a long-term solution, Mr Sakorn said an exhibition to introduce the country's 10 most in-demand professionals is planned to boost children's interest in studying science and technology at higher levels.
Mr Sakorn said the 10 careers will be introduced to children nationwide in the Enjoy Science Careers Exhibition to be held jointly by the NSM and Chevron.
The exhibition will start in May as part of the the NSM's science caravan which will tour nationwide this year.
"People who work in each career will also be invited to the exhibition as lecturers to pass on their experience to young people," said Mr Sakorn.
Mr Sakorn said other professions in the science field are also in demand, apart from the 10 mentioned above. They include transportation engineers, as the country steps up its rail transport development, and agricultural experts who specialise in soil conditions.