The 46th batch of the programme’s Andaman-region activities was formally received at Phuket Provincial Hall on Thursday (Apr 16), where senior provincial officials joined organisers in greeting participating youth and their host families.
Leading the delegation were Deputy Secretary-General Ekkarat Leeseng and adviser Kamila Song, alongside Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Deputy Governor Adul Chuthong, and district officials from Phuket City, Thalang and Kathu.
The long-running initiative, launched in 2005, aims to provide young people from Thailand’s southern border provinces with opportunities to gain new life experiences, develop practical skills and foster mutual understanding by living with host families in other parts of the country.
Organisers said the programme places strong emphasis on preparation, including careful selection and training of host families, as well as readiness programmes for participating youth.
The exchange period, which lasts for more than a month, is designed to help participants adapt to new environments while building lasting relationships and broader perspectives.
For the Phuket leg of the project, 18 host families are taking part, accommodating youth across Phuket City, Kathu and Thalang districts. Participants are expected to immerse themselves in local daily life, learn about different occupations and strengthen ties within communities.
Governor Nirat said Phuket was pleased to host the group and encouraged the youth to make full use of the opportunity to expand their horizons and better understand diverse ways of life.
He also stressed the importance of young people recognising their role as a key force in shaping the country’s future, urging them to contribute to building a strong and sustainable society.
In addition to cultural exchange, this year’s programme in Phuket has incorporated environmental learning activities, reflecting the province’s ongoing push towards sustainability.
As part of the initiative, participants were introduced to waste management practices using ‘Oklin’ food waste disposal technology at Phuket Provincial Hall. The system is capable of breaking down food waste within 24 hours, converting it into useful products such as organic fertiliser or soil conditioner.
Officials said the activity was intended to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of waste, including pollution, odour and greenhouse gas emissions, while promoting more responsible resource management.
The session also aligns with Phuket’s ‘Zero Waste’ campaign, which seeks to reduce waste at its source and encourage sustainable practices across the island.
By integrating environmental education into the exchange programme, organisers hope participants will carry these lessons back to their homes and communities, helping to promote long-term behavioural change.
Officials noted that combining cultural exchange with sustainability education not only strengthens mutual understanding among young people from different regions, but also reinforces their role in driving Thailand towards a more balanced and environmentally responsible future.