He added:<\/p>\n
BPCA have initiated a free course in the Thai language for asylum seekers in Bangkok. Working in conjunction with Rev Tim Eaddy and Christchurch
\n in Bangkok, we have begun the classes in hope that learning the language will not only assist struggling families to cope with everyday life in a foreign
\n land, but also introduce a new era of acceptance by Thai communities.<\/p>\n
Suspicions against incoming migrants are a well known phenomena across the globe, but one way to reduce the fears and anxiety that naturally beset
\n the human mind from an unknown factor, is to improve integration. Friendships are nigh on impossible without the ability to communicate, improved
\n understanding of the local dialect will not only enable asylum seekers to build relationships with local people, but will evidence their desire to
\n be part of a community. Moreover any children that learn Thai are actually permitted to attend local Thai schools for free, which would provide
\n many beleaguered families with an opportunity for good quality education for their deprived children.<\/p>\n
Many Asylum seekers in Thailand have lived in bangkok for over three years, however with few opportunities to learn the local language they are finding
\n themselves at a real disadvantage, exploitation is rife but worse for those who cannot read or write Thai. Despite knowing about this vulnerability
\n few asylum seekers have learnt the Thai language due to inability to afford classes and a belief that their asylum will only be short term – which
\n is a false assumption with waits of up to six years for refugee status determination.<\/p>\n
We spoke to Reverend Tim Eaddy at Christchurch Bangkok about our desire to initiate classes and he was able to source a teacher within weeks, which
\n the BPCA are now funding. The classes have been a real success with clear assimilation of the Thai Langauge for all participants on the course.<\/p>\n
During December Wilson Chowdhry visited the school to see how well classes were progressing. He was amazed by the level of understanding participants
\n had achieved in just a few weeks of the scheduled classes. Mr Chowdhry, said:<\/p>\n
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