Thailand and the UK encourage individuals to be 'Global Citizens'.

John Whitehead, director of the British Council, said the theme of festival is that communications is very important in helping young Thais understand the world today. Communications helps people learn how to live and work in any part of the world and thus breaks down cultural barriers.

The festival, now in its eighth year, will focus on educational partnerships and ICT in teaching and learning, and is designed for students, parents, teachers and policy-makers in government and educational institutes exploring new approaches in teaching and learning.

The highlights of EdFest 08 are a talk on 'Global Citizenship' and a seminar on 'Student Mobility in East Asia'.

Dr Art-Ong Jumsai Na Ayudhaya will host a talk on globalisation. The session will discuss what it means to be a global citizen, how to prepare for a good education and what the essential skills are for staying competitive in a globalised environment.

In the 'Student Mobility in East Asia' seminar, policy leaders from the UK and East Asia will meet for a high-level symposium to develop mutually beneficial transitional educational partnerships in the East Asia region.

"It's an exciting time for people in education. The Thai-UK Education festival is coming and we have to prepare to explore new things and share knowledge," said Dr Kasama Varavarn Na Ayudhaya, secretary-general of the Office of the Basic Education Commission at the Ministry of Education

As part of the festival, Education UK exhibitions will take place in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen. The exhibitions will feature universities and colleges in the UK as well as activities such as "Learn UK" seminars, alumni talks, career advice and IELTS demo tests free of charge.

Suwicha Chanitnun

The Nation