EMBASSY NEWS & EVENTS (2009)
U.S. Donates Buildings to Schools in Songkhla
A U.S. government civil and humanitarian assistance program was behind the construction of several new buildings at eight primary schools in rural Muslim areas of the southern province of Songkhla. On June 16-17, 2009, Acting Public Affairs Counselor J. P. Schutte and Political Officer Nej Mulla joined with Thai Ministry of Education officials in dedication ceremonies at three of the schools. The new buildings, donated to Thailand as a gift from the American people, will provide up-to-date classrooms and facilities for hundreds of Songkhla children.
The dedication ceremonies were lively community events attended by students, parents, local officials, Muslim religious leaders, and many other community members. Enthusiastic students from each of the eight schools put on musical and dance performances reflecting the cultural traditions of southern Thailand. The students also presented displays and demonstrations on drug prevention, community development, and other school projects. These projects were a clear demonstration of U.S. support for education and community building in a troubled region of Thailand.