The government is calling for the immediate upskilling of Thai workers as it affirmed its commitment to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) project, its flagship scheme spanning three provinces that it aims to turn into a high-tech manufacturing hub in order to boost the kingdom's industrial competitiveness.
Deputy government spokeswoman, Tipanan Sirichana, said the industrial hub, which spans Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao, will host manufacturers serving 12 so-called S-curve industries, such as makers of electric vehicles, smart devices, and modern medical equipment.
As such, the government has estimated that at least 475,688 workers will be needed in the EEC's factories and offices, she said.
According to Ms Tipanan, about 16,920 will be needed to support the health and wellness tourism sector, 37,526 for the robotics industry, 116,222 for the digital technology industry; 58,228 for the smart electronics manufacturers; 11,538 for medical services; 14,630 for maritime business; 53,738 for the new-generation carmakers; and 166,992 for logistics and aviation.
"All concerned agencies and educational institutions must work together to try and meet the employment demand," she said.
"The education system must also be modernised."
Under the government's human resource development plan for the EEC, educational institutions have been asked to provide academic courses and vocational courses.
"When the EEC project is completed, it is estimated that 377 business operators will need personnel who have completed a vocational course while about 277 businesses will require personnel with a bachelor's degree," she said.
As such, the government is seeking the cooperation of 941 education institutions nationwide to help develop Thai workers' skills to meet the needs of the industries, she said.