UOB Thailand’s My Digital Space Program Empowers Underprivileged Students in Remote Areas

UOB Thailand’s My Digital Space program equips disadvantaged students in remote areas with digital tools and skills, transforming their lives and ensuring access to quality education in today’s digital era.

UOB Thailand has launched the UOB My Digital Space program (MDS) with the aim of transforming the lives of underprivileged students in remote areas by providing them with digital tools and skills. In collaboration with the Thailand Collaboration for Education (TCFE), this initiative has successfully established new computer rooms and online learning opportunities for nearly 2,000 disadvantaged students in three provinces within its first year.

Mr. Tan Choon Hin, President and Chief Executive Officer of UOB Thailand, stated on June 29, “In today’s digital era, access to technology is essential for a good quality of life. The UOB My Digital Space

program plays a significant role in supporting underprivileged students to receive a quality education that equips them with the necessary resources for their digital learning journey. This program aims to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of education, both now and in the future.”

Despite 99.18 percent of Thai schools having internet access, e-learning in Thailand faces challenges. Current studies, such as the “E-learning in Thailand: Mapping the digital divide” study, reveal a digital divide, with an average of 17 students sharing one computer. Additionally, the availability of high-quality digital resources, qualified staff, and robust online learning support platforms remains crucial for the success of e-learning.

Ms. Kanokwan Chowsri, Director of Collaboration for Good Society at the Yuvabadhana Foundation (TCFE’s affiliate), explained, “Through the UOB My Digital Space program, we have introduced two essential components to schools: computer rooms dedicated to learning management and digital curriculum in Science, Mathematics, and English, which teachers can incorporate into their teaching. With these digital tools, children can also log in and independently review lessons at home.”

In addition to supporting student learning and proficiency, the MDS program will enhance teachers’ capabilities through digital learning courses. Teachers will adapt their teaching styles and develop their skills in utilising technology. The project will provide online training for teachers in newly established schools to effectively use the system.

Ms. Tadsanee Prawjuntug, a science teacher at Anuban Kohchan School in Chonburi province, one of the schools benefiting from the UOB My Digital Space program, shared, “We monitor two aspects of students’ improvement – their behavior and learning performance. Students are now more interested in learning and less likely to skip class. By increasing engagement and making studying more enjoyable, children can enhance their learning proficiency and performance. We appreciate the support of UOB Thailand in providing opportunities for children to access higher-quality education.”

UOB My Digital Space is a flagship regional education program aimed at bridging the digital gap for children from disadvantaged backgrounds and connecting them to a world of digital learning opportunities.