The Justice Ministry is being urged to push for the expansion of the Baan Kanchanapisek project, a vocational training centre for juvenile delinquents, as part of justice reform, a seminar was told.
Speaking at a seminar entitled "Back to the Future of Addiction: Problems and Solutions," Jaran Pakditanakul, a former Constitutional Court judge, said it is about time to introduce Baan Kanchanapisek, which has proved to be a success in Nakhon Pathom, to other provinces.
Baan Kanchanapisek, a Vocational Juvenile Training Centre for Boys, was created under the Department of Juvenile Observation and Protection.
The facility stands out among 19 juvenile training centres across the country because the premises has no barbed wire and residents are not treated like prisoners.
Mr Jaran said it is difficult to introduce new concepts to society, and Baan Kanchanapisek, headed by human rights advocate Thicha Nanakorn, has passed the test but a "little more work" is needed to promote a better understanding.
The former judge also called on the Justice Ministry to proceed with privately-run facilities for juvenile offenders which have yet to materialise despite being allowed by the law.
He was referring to Section 55 of the Juvenile and Family Court and Procedure Act which allows a private entity to establish an educational institution, vocational and training institute, or a psychological counselling institute for youth offenders.
Under the section, the director-general of the Department of Juvenile Observation and Protection is authorised to grant licences to private operators or state agencies to operate such establishments.
Speaking at the forum, Ms Thicha said the law opens way for privately-run facilities for youth, but it needs a little push to make it materialise.
"Who will make this ministerial regulation happen and give wayward youngsters an alternative?" she said.
The forum was organised by the Office of the Affairs and Projects under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha.