May 2, 2025, at 09.15 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presided over the official opening of the “International Welding Skills Test” in Phuket. The event is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop human resources in marine tourism-related businesses. The Minister also inspected national skills training and testing programs and visited occupational group exhibition booths. Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, and Air Chief Marshal Athikun Kongmee, Advisor to the Minister on Illegal Worker Management, attended the event. Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, represented Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, at the opening ceremony. Mr. Decha Phruekpattanarak, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, delivered the event briefing at the Phuket Skill Development Institute 21.
The welding skills test is a joint initiative between the Department of Skill Development (DSD), through Phuket Skill Development Institute 21, and Phuket Superyacht Marina Co., Ltd. (Port Matchanu). The goal is to raise the skill level and capacity of welders to meet international standards. This marks the 4th batch of testing, involving 10 participants, conducted from May 2–3, 2025, at the institute. All participants had previously completed a three-day intensive upskilling program from April 28–30, 2025, at the Phuket Skill Development Institute 21.
In addition to launching the skills test, the Labour Minister presented the National Skills Standard emblem to Andamandara Residence Co., Ltd., and awarded certificates of completion to 25 trainees under a labour capacity development project for the tourism and hospitality industry. These individuals completed a 150-hour Thai wellness massage course designed to enhance competitiveness in the sector. The Labour Minister also handed over basic work kits to 40 gig workers who completed a 30-hour garment sewing course as part of the 4.0-era Gig Worker Specific Skills Development Project. The kits aim to help trainees begin their careers with practical tools.
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Division of Public Relations
