#GraduationAwards

A growing number of child psychologists are urging Thai schools to expand graduation honors beyond academic excellence. As Thailand aims to boost learning outcomes and student wellbeing, experts say current traditions may overlook important achievements and contribute to student stress.

Globally and in Thailand, end-of-year awards often spotlight grades. However, many specialists warn this narrow focus can dampen motivation for the majority who work hard but may not be top of the class. In discussions with major Thai education networks, experts note that recognizing improvements, leadership, cooperation, and community service could nurture a healthier, more inclusive school culture.

Every graduation season, schools across the world celebrate student achievement with a flurry of awards—most of which continue to focus narrowly on academic excellence. But a tide of new research and calls from child psychology experts is putting pressure on education systems to expand their definition of success, warning that the traditional model may be doing students more harm than good (CTV News, CP24). As Thailand seeks to boost learning outcomes and student wellbeing, these insights offer timely lessons for Thai educators, policymakers, and parents.