Bangkok, August 29, 2024 — The Thailand Digital Employer Day 2024, co-organised by ICDL Thailand along with the Thailand Ministry of Labour, the Department of Skills Development, the Digital Development Foundation, and the Employers Confederation of Thailand, was successfully held in Bangkok.
Taking place at the Ministry of Labour’s Auditorium, the event focused on the theme, “Upgrading the Digital Workforce; Driving the Thai Economy Towards Prosperity and Sustainability,” highlighting the importance of enhancing digital skills to support Thailand’s economic development and future growth.
The event gathered key dignitaries, including Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Labour, H.E. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to Thailand, Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, Mr. Damien O’Sullivan, CEO of ICDL Foundation, Ms. Tina Wu, General Manager of ICDL Asia, Dr. Hugh O’Connor, Managing Director of ICDL Thailand, alongside other dignitaries and industry leaders supporting the initiative.
Advancing Digital Competencies for a Stronger Economy
In the keynote address “Upgrading the Potential of Thai Workers Towards Employment in the Digital Age.” Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the Minister of Labour, emphasised the urgency of enhancing digital skills across the Thai workforce. “Developing quality digital skills with international standards is not merely an option but an essential requirement for every individual in the Thai workforce due to the rapid transformation the world is undergoing with digital technology” he stated.
He highlighted that the Ministry of Labour is focusing on digital skills development to improve competencies across all workplaces. “When Thai workers are equipped with digital skills, it will significantly improve workplace efficiency and reduce losses from lack of knowledge. Additionally, having credible certification will also help ensure that skills and competencies are recognised and applied in further education, job applications, recruitment, promotions, and determining appropriate compensation and wages in the future,” he added. This approach aligns with the Ministry’s policy to improve the quality and wages of employees.
Mr. Phiphat also underscored the importance of global collaboration, stating “Digital skill development is borderless. By collaborating and leveraging the existing globally trusted ICDL international digital standards that have been implemented in over 100 countries for more than 25 years, we are confident in transforming the Thai workforce into a centre of quality digital labour in the region without needing to create new standards from scratch.” He also noted the country’s need for over 140,000 digital employees to meet the growing demand of over 13,000 digital sector employers in Thailand currently. The demand is expected to increase further in the coming years.
Irish Ambassador Highlights the Importance of Global Standards and Collaboration in Digital Education.
Ambassador Patrick Bourne paid tribute to the Royal Thai Government for its commitment to upskilling workers and congratulated the participants of the ICDL Digital Challenge 2024. In his address, he shared some of Ireland’s experiences, highlighting its transformation from a largely agriculture-dependent economy to a prosperous, high-tech, talent, and innovation-driven society. “ICDL played an enormously important role in contributing to Ireland’s success through its digital literacy programmes,” the Ambassador recalled. “The Irish Government is very proud to endorse and support ICDL as it continues to expand its programmes globally.”
ICDL in Driving Digital Skills Certification and Lifelong Learning
Mr. Damien O’Sullivan, CEO of ICDL Global Foundation, echoed the sentiment on the importance of reskilling and upskilling through ICDL internationally recognised digital competency certification. “ICDL certifications help measure individual’s digital skill levels, increasing job opportunities and supporting lifelong learning,” he remarked. He further elaborated on the benefits of ICDL certifications for individuals, educators, and employers by formally validating digital skills and facilitating tailored training development plans.
Celebrating Thailand’s Young Digital Talent for The Future Workforce
The Thailand Digital Employer Day 2024 also featured the award ceremony to celebrate winners of the ICDL Asia Digital Challenge 2024 Thailand National Round. This year, the competition attracted over 1,000 students from more than 100 institutions nationwide, reflecting Thailand’s dedication to nurturing digital talent for the nation’s future workforce. Participants from three educational levels—Primary, Secondary & Vocational, and University level—competed in tracks focused on Business, Design and Engineering, and Emerging Technologies. These tracks were designed to showcase the essential digital competencies required in today’s rapidly changing job market.
The award ceremony honoured the top performers who demonstrated exceptional digital skills and abilities, with national champions granted the prestigious opportunity to represent Thailand at the international level competition in the Asia region.
A Commitment to Digital Education and Career Readiness
In conclusion, the inaugural of Thailand Digital Employer Day 2024 and ICDL Digital Challenge 2024 Thailand National Round Award Ceremony not only highlighted the importance of digital education or celebrate the impressive digital capabilities of Thai students but also underscored the broader mission of equipping them with the skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world. By aligning with international standards and promoting a culture of continuous learning, the event set a new benchmark for digital education and career readiness in Thailand. As Thailand moves forward in the digital age, ICDL strongly believes that such collaborative efforts and recognition of digital talent are crucial in building a digitally competent workforce that will drive the country’s economic prosperity and sustainability.
