Why Chinese Students in Thailand are an Asset, Not a Threat to Local Graduates

Academics Dismiss Job Concerns Over Chinese Students in Thailand

Two university academics have dismissed concerns that an influx of Chinese students in Thailand would make it harder for Thai graduates to find jobs. They argue that Thailand still needs more skilled foreign workers to fill existing gaps in the workforce.

Growing Trend of Chinese Students in Thailand

Reports indicate that approximately two to three million Chinese students study abroad annually due to limited seats in public universities in China. Many choose Thailand as their destination due to the lower cost of living, prompting Chinese investors to take over private universities in the country. Last year, of the 53,000 foreign university students in Thailand, more than 28,000 were Chinese, highlighting their significant presence in the Thai education system.

Chinese Students as a Bridge, Not a Threat

Prof Dr Buppa Lapawattnaphun views the arrival of Chinese students as an opportunity rather than a threat. She believes they can serve as a bridge between the Thai and Chinese job markets. While Chinese graduates might have an advantage in securing jobs in Chinese firms, Thai students studying in China would similarly benefit when seeking employment in Thai companies operating in China.

Thailand’s Workforce Needs More Skilled Foreign Workers

Currently, only 22% of Thailand’s 38 million-strong workforce hold university degrees. Dr Thanawat Polvichai sees this as an opportunity, believing that Chinese graduates from Thai universities could help address the shortage of skilled foreign workers in the country. He urges critics to differentiate between unskilled and skilled foreign workers, emphasizing that Thailand still requires more highly trained professionals.

Chinese Students as Education and Tourism Ambassadors

Saengchai Thirakulvanij suggested that instead of fearing competition from Chinese graduates, Thailand should view them as potential education and tourism ambassadors. He proposed that Thai universities instill values in Chinese students to foster a love for Thailand, which could encourage their families and friends to visit or study in the country. By leveraging the growing presence of Chinese students, Thailand could strengthen its education sector, workforce, and tourism industry rather than viewing them as a threat.