Wai Kru 2024, 13th June 2024

In Thailand, a teacher traditionally holds one of the most respected roles in society. He or she is commonly assumed to be a transmitter of knowledge, passing on that knowledge with love, tolerance, and only good intentions. Pitee Wai Khru, an annual ceremony that amplifies a global conception of Teacher’s Day, is one of the biggest celebrations in the Thai education system. Often, when one thinks of Pitee Wai Khru – literally “a ceremony to wai the teacher,” one thinks of students seated on the floor, bending reverently while their hands come together in a wai – much deeper and more performative than for a “Sawasdee” greeting – in order that they may express their respect to the teacher and receive the latter’s blessings.

Kajonkietpattana School held a Wai Khru ceremony, where students paid respect and expressed their gratitude to their teachers. This traditional event is a special time for students to thank their teachers for imparting knowledge and the invaluable gift of learning.