August 22, 2025 (Bangkok) – Mr. Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Labour, presided over the launch of the “Fit4Work: Skills Tailored for Employers” initiative, a key mechanism to develop a workforce aligned with real market demand. On this occasion, the Ministry of Labour announced its strategic collaboration with the Graduate School of Public Administration, National Institute of Development Administration (GSPA NIDA), to enhance labour skill development in the digital era. Attending the event were Mr. Surasit Nitiwuttiworrak, Secretary to the Labour Minister, Mr. Sutthikiat Weerakitpanich, Chairman of the Minister’s Advisory Committee, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Ms. Kanchana Poolkaew, the Ministry of Labour’s Inspector-General, Acting Second Lieutenant Somsak Promdam, the Ministry of Labour’s Inspector-General, Mr. Krirkrai Nasamoyon, Legal Advisor, Mr. Nattawut Phatprayoon, Labour Academic Advisor, together with senior executives of the Ministry of Labour. The event took place at the Social Security Office, Bangkok Area 3 Conference Room, 7th Floor, Social Security Office Building, Ministry of Labour.
Mr. Pongkawin stated, “It is a great honour to preside over the launch of the ‘Fit4Work: Skills Tailored for Employers’ project, which I have driven forward with determination since assuming office. I wish to thank all participants for their valuable contributions during the Skills Co-creation Lab. This represents a crucial first step towards building the future of Thailand’s workforce. We are living in an era of rapid change, where AI and new innovations play a defining role. If we continue to develop labour skills using traditional approaches, we will not be able to keep pace with the world. The challenge of ‘skills mismatch’ is one I take very seriously.”
“From my experience in the private sector, I understand the needs of both employers and employees. Employers require a workforce equipped with precise, job-ready skills, while employees seek opportunities to develop themselves and secure stable careers. This is why the Ministry of Labour must shift from being a mere ‘curriculum developer’ to becoming a true ‘cocreator’ with business. Fit4Work is our solution. We believe that employers should no longer wait passively for trained workers but instead take part in shaping curricula, sharing ideas, and co-building a skilled workforce alongside us,” said Mr. Pongkawin.
Co-create, Co-build: The Voice of Business is Key
The Labour Minister further highlighted his commitment to advancing the policy of “AI for Enhancing Thai Workforce”, aiming to develop workers proficient in AI, data analytics, and cyber security, skills critical to attracting foreign investment.
“Fit4Work will redefine the role of employers, from simply receiving trained workers to becoming ‘co-designers’ and ‘cocreators’ at every stage. To begin, we launched the ‘Skills Co-creation Lab’, a collaborative workshop bringing together businesses from five key sectors: digital and technology, manufacturing and modern industry, services and tourism, agriculture and food, and finance and investment. Employers have shared in-depth insights on the skills urgently needed in today’s market.”
Academic Partnership: A Milestone Towards Becoming a “New Generation Ministry of Labour”
During the event, the Ministry of Labour also announced its academic partnership with GSPA NIDA, a key driver in ensuring the project’s systematic development. “Partnering with NIDA is a vital strategy,” said Mr. Pongkawin. “NIDA’s expertise in policy research will enable us to design labour training curricula that are timely, evidence-based, and aligned with market needs, particularly in AI and soft skills, both of which are in high demand.”
“Today, the Ministry of Labour is redefining its role, from simply developing training programmes to becoming a true co-creator with the business sector. The Fit4Work programme represents this new approach. We believe employers should no longer passively wait for trained workers, but actively engage in designing curricula, contributing insights, and developing a skilled workforce alongside us. Fit4Work marks the start of a transformative journey, building a ‘new generation of workers’ who are ready to work, boost income, enjoy improved quality of life, and propel Thailand to sustainable leadership in the digital economy,” said Mr. Pongkawin.
The event also featured a special interview with the Minister of Labour, conducted by Associate Professor Dr. Pananda
Jansookree, Assistant Dean for Innovation in Management and Learning at GSPA NIDA, which offered deeper insights into the vision and future direction of the initiative.
