On March 29, 2025, at 09:00, Mr. Jakkapan Phiwongam, the Deputy Governor of Bangkok, conducted an inspection of the new garbage disposal system at the Sai Mai Waste Disposal Center. This initiative is part of the Bangkok Governor's environmental policy aimed at improving waste management in the city.
The Sai Mai Waste Disposal Center is a key project spread over 20 rai (approximately 8 acres) and is designed to handle waste efficiently and sustainably. The project involves a private sector investment to construct a waste management facility that adheres to environmental standards while utilizing advanced waste disposal technologies. This facility is expected to manage a minimum of 1,000 tons of waste per day, significantly reducing the amount that needs to be sent to landfills.
According to the terms of the project, the private company, Siam Rubber Company Limited, will manage the waste disposal operations for a period of 20 years, starting from May 9, 2022, until May 8, 2042. This initiative is in compliance with the Royal Decree on cleanliness and orderliness, as well as procurement laws established in 2017.
During his visit, Mr. Phiwongam emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness at the disposal site. He instructed the Environmental Department to ensure that there are no garbage piles waiting for collection and that the area is regularly cleaned to prevent any litter from accumulating. He also highlighted the necessity of implementing measures to control and mitigate odors that could impact nearby residents.
In the course of the inspection, Mr. Phiwongam observed the operational systems in place, including the machinery and equipment used at the new waste disposal station. He urged the Environmental Department to work closely with the contracted company to revise their operational plans to ensure compliance with the established agreements and enhance the efficiency of waste management.
The waste management process at the Sai Mai Waste Disposal Center involves several key steps. Initially, waste collected from communities is transported to the facility, where it is weighed. The waste is then processed through a series of systems including compression and sorting. Recyclable materials are separated, while organic waste is converted into compost, and non-hazardous waste is prepared for energy production.
Ms. Waranut Suankaew, the Deputy Director of the Environmental Department, accompanied Mr. Phiwongam during the inspection. She noted that the department is committed to monitoring the environmental quality and the operations of the waste management system closely. The goal is to ensure that the project not only meets operational standards but also contributes positively to the community.
In addition to waste management, the Ministry of Education and Training is set to announce new regulations for university admissions on April 21, 2025. This announcement will outline the guidelines for the registration and admission process for teacher training programs and health sectors.
From April 13 to April 20, 2025, candidates will have the opportunity to review and submit their registration documents. The registration period will continue until June 22, 2025, allowing sufficient time for candidates to complete their applications. The Ministry aims to streamline the process and enhance the efficiency of candidate selection.
Starting from April 15, 2025, candidates will be able to register for examinations and confirm their registration online. The Ministry has emphasized the importance of using technology to facilitate the registration process and reduce the time required for initial applications.
In terms of examination schedules, the high school end-of-term exams for the academic year 2568 (2025) will take place on June 26-27, 2025. Students will be required to take four subjects, including mathematics and literature, and can choose two additional subjects from a list that includes sciences and social studies.
The Ministry has also set new guidelines for the admissions process, emphasizing the need for transparency in the evaluation of high school grades. Candidates will be required to utilize their academic performance from their final year of secondary school as part of their application.
As part of its commitment to improving educational standards, the Ministry of Education and Training plans to announce the results of the high school examinations on July 16, 2025. This timeline is crucial for ensuring that students are promptly informed of their results and can proceed with their educational plans accordingly.
Overall, both the waste management initiative and the educational reforms reflect a broader commitment to enhance public services in Bangkok and beyond. The successful implementation of these projects is expected to foster a cleaner environment and improve educational opportunities for future generations.