Teach students to tell right from wrong, Prayut urges

“Under democracy, people’s voice will get louder and the authority of the state will be reduced,” General Prayut said on National Teachers Day. “Children need social-media literacy because not everything out there is correct.” 
He said teachers should guide their students to know what is right and what is wrong.
“Slandering happens in social media every single day,” the prime minister said. 

Freedom with limits
While advocating courage of expression among children, Prayut said they should also be taught about boundaries. 
“You have to learn about the line of propriety before stepping out of the box,” he said, adding that preoccupation with freedoms and rights will only give rise to turmoil. 
He also urged teachers to instil morality in their students. “Do good deeds with your heart. Thai society still lacks the volunteer spirit,” he said.
The prime minister was speaking at the opening ceremony of a three-day event held by the Education Ministry to mark National Teachers Day, which is observed on January 16 every year. 
During the event, Prayut also paid respect to General Kasem Napasawas, who taught him during his years at the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy. 
Meanwhile, Education Minister Teerakiat Jareonsettasin said he believed that true change lay in the hands of teachers. 
“So, the government has prepared gifts for them,” he said, adding that he hoped teachers would in return work hard for the country. 
The three-day event is being held under the theme “Morality-Led Teachers, Boost Synergy of Thailand 4.0 Children’s Network”. 
Also yesterday, nine teachers were honoured for their outstanding work, while awards were given to two individuals and four legal entities for their contribution to Thailand’s education sector.