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Published on October 23, 2007

Somtas Ngarnsathira's decision comes at a time when many teachers in the three southernmost provinces are trying to escape the violence over concerns for their safety.

Insurgents in Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani have clearly targeted teachers alongside police and military officers.

"I am determined to work in these provinces due to the shortage of teaching staff there," said Somtas, 53, the director of Ban Kalai School in Phang Nga's Takua Pa district.

"Many innocent children are currently losing good educational opportunities because of this problem."

"Actually, I am content with my life here [in Phang Nga]. But I want to repay my country and express my loyalty to His Majesty the King. I am a civil servant of His Majesty," he said.

He said his two children understand his determination and did not object. His children, one of whom is already old enough to work, live with their mother.

However, Somtas acknowledged that his elderly mother was so concerned about his safety that she wanted to prevent him from going to the deep South.

Shrugging off criticism that he was going to the extreme, Somtas said he made a careful decision and he was devoted to his job.

"I would like to thank everyone who is concerned for my safety. I am committed to doing my duty. I expect to get the transfer order by the middle of next month," he said.

The Nation