Up to 80 Private Schools in Thailand at Risk of Closure

Photo: The Thaiger

BANGKOK, April 17, 2026 — Thailand’s private education sector is facing mounting pressure, with up to 80 schools expected to close this year due to rising costs and declining student enrolment, industry officials said.

Supaset Khanakul, president of the Association Board of Coordination and Promotion of Private Education, said closures have accelerated compared with previous years, with several schools in Bangkok already ceasing operations.

Operators cite increasing expenses — particularly higher fuel costs affecting student transport — alongside falling enrolment as key challenges.

At the same time, competition from state schools has intensified, as public institutions expand class sizes and maintain open admissions, drawing students away from private providers.

Supaset also pointed to high land values and regulatory constraints, which have made it more financially attractive for some operators to repurpose school properties for other uses.

He called on the government to address disparities in funding between public and private education, arguing that reforms are needed to ensure more equitable support, particularly in areas such as school meal programmes.

The sector is also facing growing competition from international schools, as well as specialised programmes offered by state institutions, reshaping Thailand’s education landscape.

Analysts say the closures reflect broader economic pressures on households and institutions, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of private education in the country.