Areeya Property Public Company Limited, a leader in real estate development in Thailand, has focused on creating happiness and a sustainable environment for the past three years under the concept of Sustainable Happiness. This initiative includes six innovations aimed at fostering happiness, one of which is 'Happiness in Construction' that emphasizes the sustainable happiness of personnel and laborers. The company is advancing the quality of life for youth in construction camps and continuously establishing learning centers to enhance skills for the children of workers in project areas. They are collaborating with UNICEF and the Child Development Network Foundation to propose practical approaches for the private sector to reduce issues related to children's quality of life, ensure safe spaces in construction areas, and provide access to education.

          Mr. Wisit Laohapoonrangsri, Chairman and Managing Director of Areeya Property Public Company Limited stated that as a private organization recognizing the importance of sustainable happiness for personnel and laborers from the outset, we are moving forward with the concept of 'Happiness in Construction.' This refers to the skilled labor that plays a crucial role in creating and developing quality housing. We see workplace happiness as essential; if the construction site is clean and orderly, it will be a safe area that can prevent accidents during work. At the same time, it promotes good hygiene for laborers by clearly allocating infrastructure for use, such as temporary housing and shower facilities. Additionally, we have found that many children accompany laborers in each project. If we allocate space appropriately, it will reduce the risks these children face. Therefore, we have established a 'Child Friendly Space' to provide these children with opportunities to develop various skills beneficial for their future, while also alleviating concerns for laborers regarding their children during work hours.

          Dr. Tawirak Klinsukon, Director of Community Standards Promotion and Customer Service at Areeya Property Public Company Limited, further added that in 2015, we launched the 'Child Friendly Space' in the Hatyai Rat project area. This included registering children's histories, conducting activities to develop age-appropriate skills, teaching basic reading and writing, and instilling discipline. We received cooperation from the Foundation for Child Development (FCD) to provide mentoring and training for volunteers in the project, as well as support from the Labor Quality of Life Promotion Network Foundation, which provided teachers to implement a standardized curriculum. Volunteer teachers also provided basic knowledge and skills development according to age from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, aiming to equip children and youth with knowledge and skills to continue their education in the formal system.

          “Currently, there are learning centers covering six project areas: Hatyai Rat, Sai Noi, Bang Na, Bang Bua Thong, Rangsit Klong 4, and Rangsit Klong 5, with a total of 149 children, representing 95% of all children in the construction camp. The remaining 5% are children who must return to their hometowns with their families. Through the establishment of these learning centers, Areeya has successfully facilitated 24 children to continue their education in the formal system, comprising 3 Thai children and 21 Cambodian children. We have observed that these children are diligent and show remarkable development, with an average learning level of 73%,” Mr. Wisit concluded.

          Mr. Thomas Davin, UNICEF Representative in Thailand stated, “Thailand has policies and laws supporting every child in the country, including the children of migrant workers, to access basic rights and services. However, in practice, children still face challenges. With the increasing number of construction projects in Thailand, now is the right time for all companies in the construction industry to recognize the importance of these issues and collectively implement this framework to invest in improving the quality of life for children in construction camps for a sustainable future in Thailand.”

          Mr. Nicola Crosta, founder of the Child Development Network Foundation, stated, “Over the past few years, we have had the opportunity to work with various organizations to improve housing, infrastructure, children's rights, health, and education, aiming to enhance the quality of life for children living in construction camps. Effective solutions not only improve the lives of children but also positively impact the operations of companies. However, what is currently lacking is the implementation, which will provide a clearer vision for companies and organizations. If we can develop tangible outcomes, the construction industry in Thailand will set new standards that will benefit future generations of children.”

          Additionally, Areeya is committed to developing the health and well-being of children and youth in various aspects, teaching them to live harmoniously with others and adapt to society. This promotes learning exchanges for children and youth through knowledge sharing and life skills enhancement, such as Thai and English language, arts, and instilling positive thinking in all areas, along with health check-ups and overall hygiene care to build a solid foundation for a bright future and sustainable happiness.

 

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