Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education of cross-border migrant children in Thailand

Abstract

This study examines the direct and indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education and learning continuity of cross-border migrant children in Thailand, with particular attention to school and Migrant Learning Center (MLC) closures. Qualitative data were collected in 2021 through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions in six provinces. The findings show that COVID-19 containment measures forced widespread closures of Thai government schools and MLCs. Although remote learning was introduced through online and on-hand modalities, limited readiness among migrant children, households, and teachers resulted in substantial learning gaps and disrupted educational continuity. Educational disruption was more severe among children enrolled in MLCs than those in Thai government schools due to longer closures, limited access to public subsidies, and unstable institutional support. Major consequences included learning loss, delayed school entry among preschool-aged children, increased dropout among adolescents, and heightened health-related vulnerability, nutrition, and child protection risks. The study provides empirical evidence that legal status, institutional recognition of MLCs, and parental occupational mobility critically shape migrant children's educational vulnerability during crises. It highlights the need for formal integration and public support of MLCs, strengthened linkages, and coordinated inter-sectoral policies to safeguard migrant children's education and well-being during future crises.