On 22 August 2025, World Vision Foundation of Thailand, Sa Kaeo Project, held a celebration marking 50 years of operations under the theme “Thank You from the Heart: Moving Forward Together to Create Sustainable Change”. The event took place at Phetburapha Conference Room, Sa Kaeo Primary Educational Service Area Office 2, with Mr Samart Phongsri, Sa Kaeo Provincial Education Officer, presiding over the ceremony. Representatives from government agencies, the private sector, international organisations, and partner networks joined to celebrate the joint ministry to support children through collaborative work with families and communities.
Mr Samart Phongsri remarked: “This event marks the 50th anniversary of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, which has long worked alongside and supported schools and communities in Sa Kaeo Province. Today, we witness the fruits of that labour. We are nurturing them to become capable individuals who can care for themselves. In the future, they will become quality citizens who will take on the responsibility of caring for our nation.”
Dr. Wimolrat Seesan, Regional Programme Implementation Manager – North & Central, World Vision Foundation of Thailand, outlined the purpose of the event:
“On behalf of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, I am delighted and honoured to collaborate with all of you in organising this event. It is held to express our gratitude to supporters across all sectors who have played a vital role in driving change for vulnerable children, families, and communities. Today, you will see the outcomes of our work through youth showcases, dialogue sessions, and exhibitions from over 26 participating schools.”
Sa Kaeo Youth Showcases
One of the highlights of the event was a youth performance titled “Phuen Thai”, presented by students from schools within the programme area. The performance reflected pride in cultural heritage and was supported by World Vision Foundation of Thailand to promote artistic and cultural knowledge among young people.
Additionally, there was a youth-led dialogue on the topic “Vulnerable Children in Sa Kaeo Province”, presented by a representative of World Vision Thailand youth leaders.
Pond, or Worawit, a World Vision Foundation of Thailand youth leader, shared:“The information and perspectives we are presenting today stem from the vulnerabilities faced by children in Sa Kaeo Province. These insights are based on data collected from 4,750 children and youths in the area. Their vulnerabilities have been categorised into four dimensions: (1) abuse or exploitation, (2) extreme deprivation, (3) extreme exclusion, and (4) disaster-related vulnerability. This data has been analysed to understand the root causes of these issues and to explore potential solutions that children and youths themselves can contribute to—if given the opportunity, and if adults are willing to listen, support us, and collaborate to create meaningful change for vulnerable children.”
Following the official opening, Mr Samart Phongsri and distinguished guests toured the exhibition booths showcasing school projects, including life skills development, creative learning activities, and vocational training initiatives aimed at fostering self-reliance among youth and families for a sustainable future.
Dr. Wimolrat Seesan concluded:
“The joy we see today is not the result of our efforts alone, but of the network we have built together. Most importantly, our children are the ones who truly benefit from this collaboration.”
She emphasised the importance of continued cooperation to carry forward the mission of creating opportunities and hope for children and communities in Sa Kaeo Province.
