The 72-year-old needs to translate his solid credentials into formidable work. The portfolio is a hot potato - with the controversial issue of ministerial restructuring, the transfer of state schools to local administrative organisations and lingering doubts about the scheme to turn state universities into autonomous bodies.

Whatever Wijit does will be subject to intense scrutiny. But Wijit is no stranger to education. A Fulbright scholar, he earned a doctorate in educational management from Minnesota University in the US.

He lectured at Chulalongkorn University Education Faculty and served as secretary-general of the Office of the Civil Service Commission and was permanent secretary for the then University Affairs Ministry - now the Office of Higher Education Commission.

The new minister served a stint as rector of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University and Suranaree University of Technology. Wijit was also credited with drafting the National Education Act BE 2542 - the blueprint for education since it took effect.

"I plan to stick to the National Education Act," Wijit said of his new job.

Chulalongkorn University lecturer Sompong Jitradab predicted bright prospects for education under Wijit.

"But, I am also concerned about the fact he has such an extensive background in education that he may not be willing to listen much," he said.

Wijit's role in drafting the National Education Act could also affect his vision about the education landscape, which had changed a lot in past years.

Education activist Thanarat Somkane, however, views Wijit with great regard. "He was there during education reform. He will have the necessary vision and understanding. If he has the right team, he should be able to tackle lingering problems," he said.