School uniform reuse allowed to help families save money

Education minister also says full scout uniforms will no longer be mandatory

PUBLISHED : 5 May 2026 at 14:29

WRITER: Online Reporters

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The Ministry of Education is helping parents save on back‑to‑school expenses, allowing students to continue using their existing uniforms even if they transfer to a new school or move up a grade.

As well, full sets of scout uniforms will no longer be mandatory, Education Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong said at Government House on Tuesday, adding that an official directive would be issued to schools nationwide.

With the new school year about to begin, many parents had questions about student and scout uniforms, Mr Prasert said.

Uniforms are typically required to be changed according to school regulations or grade levels, creating a financial burden for many parents.

Uniforms represent a big expense for families, especially if their children attend schools where as many as five uniforms can be required, depending on the activity or day of the week.

For student uniforms, the minister said schools can allow students to wear their existing uniforms even if they move up a grade or move to another school.

As for scout uniforms, students are not required to purchase full sets. They may wear a scout scarf and hat together with their regular school uniform or sports uniform.

Bags and shoes can also be reused, Mr Prasert said.

The compulsory scout uniform regulation has long been controversial in Thai education, with the public questioning the necessity of the costly attire.

In April last year, the ministry relaxed the regulation by allowing a more flexible and casual dress code. Scout uniforms are divided into three types — formal, training and casual — under the scout curriculum, though their use is determined by each school.

Mr Praset added that school directors have been given the authority to adopt appropriate measures to help families reduce additional expenses, such as library maintenance fees and club membership fees.

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- KEYWORDS

- Thai education policy

- School uniform regulations

- Prasert jantararuangtong

- Student uniform costs

- Scout uniform requirements

- Thailand education ministry

- School expense reduction