Creating Equal TCAS Access! Deputy PM orders University Admissions Authority to freeze TCAS application fees at current rates for one additional year and expand free A-Level exam rights to a maximum of 7 subjects, while introducing "TCASFolio" to improve the selection system and reduce educational inequality.

On April 26, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yossakon Wongsuwan unveiled higher education policies to the Conference of Rectors of Thai Universities to guide institutional operations in alignment with national strategy and ministerial policies. The announcement was attended by senior officials including Supchai Patumnak, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education; Dr. Srinyada Palimaphand, Advisor to the Minister; and Wileash Burivatch, Chairman of the Conference of Rectors and Rector of Chulalongkorn University, along with leaders from other higher education institutions at NIDA's conference hall.

Yossakon stated that consultations with the University Admissions Authority concluded on three main points for creating "Equal TCAS":

1. Maintaining current TCAS application fee rates for one additional year despite prior plans to increase them, while providing budget support for free TGAT/TPAT exams (rounds 1-5). The government will additionally offer free A-Level examinations for up to 7 subjects at 100 baht per subject (maximum 700 baht) and free registration for the third admission round at 7 universities. The portfolio round application fee will be reduced by 25% for students in the educational equity fund system to expand equal opportunities for selection.

2. Improving the portfolio selection round through "TCASFolio," a standardized system for portfolio preparation and submission designed to reduce unnecessary burdens and prevent commercial portfolio production services. A parallel "TCAS Verified" system will enable source organizations to directly verify activity information, enhancing data reliability and preventing falsification. Universities will be urged to balance portfolio round admissions at an average not exceeding 30% to preserve opportunities for all applicant groups. Selection criteria that impose excessive burdens or create inequality—such as mandatory published research or high-cost activities—will be reviewed and replaced with criteria measuring potential relevant to each field of study.

3. Implementing systematic risk management oversight across all stages from exam development, quality checks, and data processing to public communication to ensure proper, transparent operations and public confidence. The process will continue accepting and considering post-exam appeals as part of quality assurance, with feedback reviewed by experts to verify exam accuracy, answer keys, and grading criteria before official score announcements, ensuring fair measurement of students' true potential.

Wileash noted that the University Admissions Authority is currently compiling data on portfolio admission proportions across faculties to establish joint policies moving forward and is considering adjusting procedural sequences.

Sodo Style and Draft have publicly opened up about their relationship status following a viral photo from the Maldives where Draft shaded his eyes for her. The pair addressed speculation from social media about their romantic status, with Sodo emphasizing they remain friends and business partners who have only been talking seriously for two months. When asked about the leaked photo, Sodo explained it was a positive development that has benefited both her personal growth and business, while insisting the couple's current status is strictly platonic.

Sodo revealed she and Draft knew each other for two years but only began genuine conversation two months ago. She attributed her reluctance toward a committed relationship to emotional pain from the past 2-3 years, noting she has only recently begun to truly love herself at age 34. She mentioned believing a fortune teller's prediction that she shouldn't have a boyfriend before age 70.

When asked how their relationship began, both gave playful accounts of following each other online before coincidentally meeting at work. Draft revealed he was drawn to Sodo's diligence and work-focused nature, noting that even during social events, her attention remained on business rather than romance. Sodo joked about her loneliness and desire for companionship, though she emphasized she doesn't engage in casual conversations with just anyone.

The pair clarified their connection stems from aligned goals and mutual respect rather than intentional pursuit, with Draft noting they "clicked" due to similar ambitions. Throughout the interview, both maintained light-hearted banter while confirming their current relationship remains within friendship boundaries.

An owner facing financial hardship borrowed money to purchase cattle with hopes of building a livelihood, only to lose both the mother and calf to a lightning strike in the rice field. The owner is devastated and deeply attached to the animals, which were remarkably intelligent, and now questions how she will repay the debt, hoping the government might provide assistance.

On April 26, a reporter documented how recent summer storms have caused widespread damage across Buriram province, affecting homes, barns, and agricultural areas. The latest thunderstorm occurred in Thai Samakkhi subdistrict, Nong Hong district, Buriram province, with reports of lightning killing two cattle. The incident took place at Ban Nong Semet Noi Pattana.

Reporters found Nang Som, 57, from Moo 11 of the same area, grieving while stroking Jao Ruay and Rung Reung—a mother cow and her calf, ages 5 years and 2 months respectively—lying dead on the ground. Nang Som explained she had previously worked as a housemaid in Bangkok but quit, hoping to pursue agriculture in her hometown. A local development fund then offered agricultural loans to purchase cattle as supplementary income. She borrowed 25,000 baht to buy the mother cow, which she named Jao Ruay. The cow later gave birth to a male calf she named Rung Reung.

She loved both cattle as if they were family members. Around 7:30 p.m. yesterday, heavy rain and thunder struck the area, and by morning, villagers reported the lightning had killed both animals in the rice field. Nang Som remains traumatized, as both cattle were exceptionally intelligent—whenever she visited, they would run over and playfully rub their heads on her. She cannot imagine replacing them and feels helpless about repaying the loan, expressing hope that the government might offer disaster relief assistance.

On April 26, 2569, Eaksak Bunpha, the district chief of Chae Hom, ordered security personnel, local administrative organizations, village headmen, and relevant agencies along with royal volunteer workers to mobilize and assist affected residents following the storm that struck the district between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on April 25. The severe thunderstorm caused extensive damage to homes and structures across three subdistricts.

In Mae Suk Subdistrict: Mae Suk village (18 homes), Luk village (4 homes), Ban Mai Samakkhi (4 homes), Sop Suk village (57 homes), and Mae Suk Samakkhi village (37 homes) were damaged.

In Wichet Khon Subdistrict: Ban Mai Pha Khao (1 home), San Makluea village (30 homes), San Klang village (13 homes), Thung Thong village (14 homes), Ban Mai Lae Yao (2 homes), and Pong Khob village (40 homes) sustained damage.

In Chae Hom Subdistrict: Muang village (7 homes) was affected.

In total, 227 homes across 12 villages in the three subdistricts were damaged. There were no reported injuries or deaths from the incident. The local administrative organizations of Mae Suk, Wichet Khon, and Chae Hom have mobilized assistance for affected residents according to established protocols.

Weather officials from the Lamphun Meteorological Station reported that rainfall in northern Thailand is decreasing but thunderstorms, strong gusty winds, and heavy rain continue in some areas. The public is urged to remain vigilant against these hazards. Between April 28 and May 1, 2569, the northern region is forecast to experience thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail in certain areas, with possible lightning strikes.

For Lamphun Province specifically, conditions are expected to be hot during midday with a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms, strong gusty winds, and heavy rain in some areas. Minimum temperature: 21-25°C, maximum temperature: 32-38°C.

SAMUT PRAKAN — Songkran celebrations are still in full swing in Phra Pradaeng district, where large crowds of tourists and locals gathered on April 26 for one of Thailand's most culturally distinctive New Year festivals, known for preserving Mon heritage traditions.

By 11:30 on April 26, 2026, the atmosphere in Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan province, was lively as visitors continued splashing water under intense heat, particularly in front of the district office where a stage and live performances were set up.

Despite many believing the traditional Songkran period had ended, the festival in Phra Pradaeng—also known as "Songkran Pak Lat"—continues to draw strong participation, with streets and key intersections filled with crowds enjoying water activities and entertainment.

Major roads including Suksawat Road, Pu Chao Saming Phrai Road, and Phetchahung Road, as well as surrounding alleyways, were packed with revellers on both sides, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere across the district.

Authorities have implemented strict traffic and safety measures this year, including a ban on pickup trucks carrying water tanks and passengers from entering 13 main routes, in an effort to prevent accidents and ease congestion.

Police from multiple stations across Samut Prakan have been deployed to manage traffic, maintain order, and ensure public safety throughout the festival period.

Phra Pradaeng Songkran is a long-standing tradition of Thai-Mon communities, featuring cultural activities such as the Nang Songkran procession, floral floats, traditional Mon folk games including "Saba Raman," and performances like Mon dance.

The festival also features major parades and cultural showcases, which are set to continue through the afternoon with the official opening ceremony and procession.

The event highlights the unique identity of Mon heritage in Thailand and is widely regarded as one of the country's most culturally significant Songkran celebrations, extending beyond the traditional festival period with activities continuing for several days each year.

As global temperatures climb beyond warming trends into an era of extreme heat, Thailand faces increasingly dangerous UV radiation levels that pose significant risks to skin with prolonged sun exposure. UV rays break down collagen beneath the skin's surface, leading to dark spots, freckles, and wrinkles, making sunscreen an indispensable protective tool for everyone.

What do SPF and PA ratings on sunscreen labels tell us?

Many people casually grab any sunscreen off the shelf, but with UV radiation reaching unprecedented levels, reading labels and making informed choices before purchasing is essential.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays that cause sunburn. For Thailand's intense sun, choose SPF 50 or higher.

PA (Protection Grade of UVA) measures protection against UVA rays that penetrate deep into the skin, destroying collagen and causing wrinkles. For maximum protection, select PA++++ (four plus signs only).

Three techniques for choosing and applying sunscreen effectively:

1. Look for "Broad-Spectrum" on the label This ensures comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays, plus protection from blue light and pollution—perfectly suited for modern lifestyles.

2. Choose a texture suited to your climate and skin type Given Thailand's hot, humid weather, overly heavy creams can cause midday shine and clogged pores. Match the formula to your skin: oily or acne-prone skin should use fluid, gel, or fast-absorbing serum formulas, while dry skin should opt for cream-based products to lock in moisture and provide all-day protection.

3. Application amount is crucial Even premium sunscreen loses effectiveness if applied too sparingly. Dermatologists recommend using a full two-finger length of product and reapplying every 2-3 hours during outdoor activities.

With rapidly changing weather and intensified sun damage, investing in quality sunscreen tailored to your skin type is the smartest investment you can make. Start protecting your skin today to prevent serious damage that becomes difficult to reverse, keeping your skin youthful and wrinkle-free for years to come.