FWD Life Insurance Plc (FWD Insurance) has long supported educational initiatives and life-skills development for young people, helping them build a secure foundation for the workforce. A key part of this work is its partnership with the Pimali Foundation, a vocational training centre in Nong Khai focused on the hospitality and service industries. Through the foundation, young people with limited access to education gain practical, job-ready skills, alongside financial literacy and essential life skills. Marking the Pimali Foundation’s 10th anniversary, FWD extended its congratulations and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable youth development.
Efforts to promote educational equality in Thai society are crucial, as data from the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) reveals that around 800,000 Thai children and youth still require additional educational support. Additionally, about 1.4 million youth, or roughly 15% of the population aged 15–24, fall into the NEET category (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). These young people represent an untapped resource for the country, with significant potential waiting to be developed. This underscores the importance of supporting educational opportunities and skill-building programs that can lead to real-world job prospects, helping youth unlock their potential and secure long-term stability.
In line with this vision, FWD continues its commitment to Community Care by focusing on vocational skills development and financial literacy, equipping young people with limited opportunities with the tools to become financially independent and self-reliant.
Beyond providing educational opportunities, FWD actively supports the development of practical skills for Pimali students. FWD volunteers regularly lead workshops on financial literacy and essential life skills that are not always covered in traditional school curricula. The workshops use game-based learning and hands-on activities to teach practical, real-life skills, including budgeting, saving, setting financial goals, and preparing for a successful career. These sessions are designed to help students manage their finances, take care of themselves, and confidently plan for their future as they enter the workforce.
Mr. David Korunić, Chief Executive Officer for Thailand and Cambodia at FWD Life Insurance Plc., said: “FWD Insurance is dedicated to building a society where everyone can design their own life path. Supporting scholarships and vocational training for youth with limited economic and educational opportunities lays a strong foundation for a secure future and long-term equality. We have worked closely with Pimali Foundation for the past five years, creating a learning system that connects education with real-world employment, while enhancing financial knowledge and life skills to help youth succeed in the workforce. Youth development remains a key focus for FWD Insurance.”
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Pimali’s vocational training center, an event was held at the center, where both alumni and current students helped prepare and host the gathering for guests. FWD Insurance congratulated the foundation on this milestone and reaffirmed its ongoing support for providing youth with hands-on learning opportunities through the “Learning by Doing” approach.
Over the years, more than 80% of Pimali graduates have secured jobs at five-star hotels across Thailand. Many have earned their first stable income and are now able to support their families. This success highlights the positive impact of vocational training that meets labor market needs, providing youth and their families with long-term income stability.
Mr. David added, “With collaboration across all sectors, accessible learning and skill development will help youth realize their full potential, provide stability for their lives and families, and empower them to become key contributors to society. This is in line with FWD Insurance’s continued focus on creating a society that grows equitably and securely for everyone.”
