PRESS RELEASE:
New findings reveal that Thailand must act swiftly to prepare schools for future emergencies.
UNICEF–NIDA survey finds that damage and learning disruption from extreme weather can be reduced with climate-resilient policies and infrastructure – but most schools in Songkhla, Yala and Narathiwat remain unprepared
BANGKOK, 4 December 2025 – As devastating floods interrupt education for thousands of children in southern Thailand, recent findings from a UNICEF–NIDA survey point to vulnerabilities that could be significantly reduced with stronger preparedness. Published before the recent floods, the survey shows that most schools in Songkhla, Yala and Narathiwat have repeatedly faced heavy rains and flooding over the past three years. In addition, they struggle to provide basic essentials such as safe drinking water during crises, lack training and resources to protect children and keep them learning when disruption strikes, and expect conditions to grow worse.
According to the Ministry of Education, as of today, nearly 148,000 students and 8,290 teachers have been affected and 1,090 schools damaged by the catastrophic flooding that struck southern Thailand, particularly Songkhla. Communities are only now beginning the long process of recovery.
The Survey on Assessing Climate Change Impacts and Support Needed in Schools, conducted between July and August 2025, collected data from 329 public schools – including 14 schools for children with disabilities. The schools were located in 14 provinces most affected by extreme weather during the past three years. In the three southern provinces, data was collected from 49 schools in Songkhla, 24 schools in Yala and 37 schools in Narathiwat.
Across all three provinces, schools reported a consistent pattern of heavy rains and severe flooding that disrupted learning. In Songkhla, for example, nearly 80 per cent of schools reported disruption to utilities, clean drinking water and food, while in Yala, three in four schools anticipate worsening health risks, from illness to potential injuries, if flooding intensifies. Narathiwat recorded the highest exposure to extreme weather, especially flooding, many schools experiencing reduced safe water access and loss of learning days.
The survey also found significant gaps in preparedness across the region. About half of all teachers in these provinces said they had never received climate-related training, and many schools described their preparedness as only “moderate.” Students similarly had limited understanding of climate change and how to stay safe during floods or emergencies. More than three in four schools in the three provinces identified climate training for teachers and students, early-warning systems, and practical school-based preparedness activities as immediate priorities. Many schools across the provinces also reported that they received little or no assistance after previous extreme weather events.
“These findings show that while every province has its own challenges, the vulnerabilities children face are similar and many of the resulting school disruptions could be prevented,” said Severine Leonardi, UNICEF Deputy Representative for Thailand. “Whether it’s access to clean water, food, sanitation, safer classrooms, or trained teachers, children need stronger protection now to reduce harm and prevent further learning loss from future extreme weather events.”
Throughout the current flooding, UNICEF has supported local authorities to meet urgent needs. Hygiene kits and essential supplies, including diapers, blankets and mosquito repellent, have been delivered to nearly 18,000 children and families in Songkhla, Pattani, Narathiwat and Yala to help prevent further health risks. Baby-specific items and Magic Bags filled with toys, colouring books and educational materials have also been distributed to bring comfort and help children continue learning during this difficult time. UNICEF stands ready to work with the Government and education authorities to help children get back to school as quickly as possible including setting up temporary learning spaces and providing cash support to the most vulnerable families to cover uniforms and essential supplies.
In the long term, UNICEF continues to work with the Ministry of Education, the Department of Climate Change and Environment, and other partners to advance Climate Smart Education that helps schools across Thailand become more safe, resilient and inclusive so that every child can learn and thrive in a rapidly changing climate. Currently, UNICEF and partners are developing guidelines to rebuild schools with stronger, climate-resilient infrastructure and systems.
“As rebuilding begins, we have an opportunity to make schools stronger than before,” Leonardi added. “Every child deserves a safe place to live and learn, not only today, but in whatever climate they face in the future.”
Thailand has risen to 17th place in the Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2026, compiled by Germanwatch, a substantial increase from its 72nd position in 2022 – highlighting the country’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather. According to UNICEF’s 2023 Over the Tipping Point report, 10.8 million children in Thailand are highly exposed to flooding and water scarcity. The report also found that children born in East Asia and the Pacific today are experiencing six times more climate-related disasters than their grandparents.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
