On 16 September 2025, World Vision Foundation of Thailand’s Omkoi Project, Chiang Mai Province, joined forces with its local partners to host the Omkoi Youth Forum. The event aimed to give young people the opportunity to express their abilities, creativity, and commitment to developing their own communities.
The event included the presentation of certificates of recognition to individuals and organisations that have played a key role in promoting child and youth development, as well as honouring outstanding youths of the year 2025. A variety of activities were held, including youth talent performances, exhibition booths showcasing project outcomes, and sales of products from livelihood skills development initiatives supported by World Vision Foundation of Thailand.
The event was presided over by Mr Preechaphon Poontavee, Omkoi District Chief, and also joined by representatives from the education sector, civil society, child and youth organisations, volunteers, youth leaders, and community leaders, including Mr Ananthachai Arunsongporn, Director of Ban Yang Pao School; Dr Supakrit Attavadhanadol, Digital Technology & Services Division Manager, and DPO; and Mr Kanok Srireang, Programme Manager, Chiang Mai Province. In total, over 250 participants attended the event.
Thailand continues to face challenges regarding the rights and opportunities of children and youths, particularly in marginalised areas and among ethnic groups. According to data from the National Statistical Office and civil society organisations:
“There are over 100,000 stateless children and youths in Thailand who still lack access to basic rights such as education, healthcare, and birth registration. Youths in remote areas have only a 60% chance of accessing upper secondary education, compared to 90% in urban areas. In addition, poverty remains a major barrier, with households in Omkoi earning on average 40% less than the provincial average in Chiang Mai.”
World Vision Foundation of Thailand remains committed to creating opportunities for youths by working with families, communities, and partner organisations to overcome poverty and social injustice. The focus is on building youth leadership capacity to prepare them for life, education, and employment, enabling them to become a driving force for sustainable community development.
“The Omkoi Youth Forum is not just an event but a platform for young people to express their abilities, ideas, and hope, driving change that begins within their own communities,” said Mr Kanok Srireang, Programme Manager, Chiang Mai Province.
