61. Schools as Gateways for Social and Economic Advancements in Communities Surrounding Schools

Students play an important role in the management of the school which empowers them to bring social and economic development to their communities, as well as learn leadership, empathy and compassion. Students can be taught and empowered to become change-makers. Schools have resources that have been underutilized. Villagers have strong bonds with schools. There are more schools than any other governmental offices. Schools can be lifelong centers for all. In 1974, our speaker, Mechai Viravaidya, launched the Population and Community Development Association (PDA) to combat Thailand's soaring population growth rate. Using unconventional methods and humor, he made contraceptives widely accessible, leading to a significant reduction in the growth rate to 0.5% by 2003. His innovative approach also proved effective in tackling the HIV/AIDS crisis, resulting in a remarkable 90% decline in new infections within 12 years. Mechai’s impact extended beyond public health as he held key government positions and pioneered social entrepreneurship. Establishing Thailand's first social enterprise in 1975 to support PDA's operations, he later expanded it to include 18 others, notably the Cabbages & Condoms Restaurants and Resorts. His dedication to rural development is evident through initiatives like the Village Development Partnership, empowering communities with sustainable ventures. Additionally, the Bamboo School, founded in 2008, stands as a beacon of lifelong learning and socioeconomic advancement. Mechai’s remarkable achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the United Nations Population To learn more, go to: http://www.mechaifoundation.org/ https://tinyurl.com/MVFdocuments (a folder with articles and more)