These two novices were studying in a school run by the temple where they were ordained and part of their homework was to go and speak to strangers and learn the English language. This was something that they had to do every day after school lessons to improve their accent and language skills. Such trips not only improve students' language skills but also give them the courage to face the real world and be brave enough to speak up, something that we Thais lack in a big way. On the other hand, Thailand, which welcomed 33 million tourists in 2016, more than Myanmar and Turkey combined, does not seem to be implementing anything like this. The mai pen rai (never mind) attitude and English skills can be improved with a little bit more insight by those in charge of education.

Source: Bangkok Post September 09, 2017 21:31 UTC