Inside a classroom fully equipped with digital devices and modern learning materials, children drag coding blocks across a screen to guide characters along a set path. It may look like an ordinary technology class, but for children with autism, this classroom represents a starting point for learning essential life skills needed to live in society.
Believing that children with autism deserve equal and appropriate access to digital opportunities just like other children, True Corporation through True Plookpanya has partnered with the Autistic Thai Foundation to establish the Autism Digital Learning Center—a space where technology is designed to be accessible to everyone.
The initiative began in Bangkok before expanding to other provinces. Today, the fourth center has been established at Wat Huai Mu School in Mueang District, Ratchaburi. The school integrates more than 80 general education students and students with special needs and also serves as a hub for the Ratchaburi Autism Parents Club. Together, they are working to create equal digital opportunities for children with special needs.
At a time when the world widely discusses Digital Transformation and AI, this learning center reflects another side of technology: meaningful innovation should be designed to ensure equal access for all.
From Innovation to Infrastructure Built on Belief
Behind the Autism Digital Learning Center for Individuals with Autism and Their Families at Wat Huai Mu School in Ratchaburi lies a collaboration among the public sector, the school, the local community, and private organizations. Together, they have established concrete infrastructure to give children in this group tangible access to learning in the digital world.
True Plookpanya, under True Corporation, serves as the key partner pioneering efforts to develop the potential of individuals with autism, working continuously with the Autism Thai Foundation.
“True Plookpanya has been helping develop the potential of individuals with autism in collaboration with the Autism Thai Foundation for more than 10 years. It all began when Suphachai Chearavanont recognized the potential of these children and sent True’s team of innovators to work closely with them,” said Praparnpong Maknuan, Head of True Plookpanya, True Corporation explaining the origins of the initiative.
“We started by developing applications to strengthen fine motor skills, then expanded into communication and daily living skills training. When we saw the children’s remarkable progress, we adapted the community learning center concept from the Connext ED project into what has become the Autism Digital Learning Center. The Ratchaburi center is now the fourth of its kind in the country.”
One Center, Three Systems: From Classroom to Community
The Ratchaburi center stands out for its “1 Center, 3 SystemChusak Chantayanon, Chairman of the Autistic Thai Foundation, the center s” concept. According to benefits from a well-prepared school environment, a strong parent network, and multidisciplinary cooperation in the area. It supports students with autism within the school system, those outside the formal system, and children in the surrounding community.Using digital platforms that integrate foundational education, vocational skill development, and life skills training.
“The center serves individuals with autism of all ages. It also enables inclusive classroom activities with general education students through a Buddy system. Paired students take turns planning and carrying out activities such as coding. While it may resemble gameplay, the activity simultaneously develops systematic thinking, communication, and teamwork skills.”
The outcomes extend beyond digital skills. The center helps nurture a new generation that grows up understanding differences—laying the foundation for a truly inclusive and happy society.
Technology That Transforms Lives
“We’ve seen that every child with special needs has potential. With appropriate digital media, they enjoy learning and want to come to school. We’ve clearly observed longer attention spans and greater confidence,” said Wannee Thankruea, a Science and Technology teacher at Wat Huai Mu School. “What’s impressive is seeing students help one another. Older students with autism even teach younger ones how to use the tools. They take turns and work together very well.”
Having a digital learning center equipped with tools specifically designed to support life-skills training for autistic students has created changes that extend beyond the classroom into real life. At the same time, neurotypical students are able to learn alongside them.
“In this room, we have VR headsets that simulate real-life situations, such as going grocery shopping at a supermarket. The students get to practice choosing items and making decisions, which helps build their confidence and encourages them to venture out and navigate real-life situations more independently. Other students line up excitedly to try it as well. Some of them say, ‘Teacher, I’ve never tried this before in my life.’ Seeing their excitement makes us happy too.”
More Than Development is Family’s Hope
“When I first learned that our son has autism, I worried about what would happen to him when we’re no longer here,” shared Bunnak Limpiboon, echoing a common concern among parents of children with special needs. However, after his son began learning and developing life skills through technology at the school, he started to see positive changes.
“My son used to struggle with communication. After studying here and using digital tools like iPads, he wants to come to school more and his development has improved significantly. We feel reassured seeing that he can become more self-reliant and live alongside others.”
Today, Bunnak also works with the Ratchaburi Autism Parents Network to expand opportunities for future generations. “Over the years, I’ve seen that True consistently prioritizes this work. They continuously introduce meaningful projects that open doors for children with special needs.”
Meaningful Innovation Designed for Equal Access
The Autism Digital Learning Center in Ratchaburi serves as a model demonstrating that with proper infrastructure, prepared teachers, and strong collaboration networks, digital opportunity can truly become tangible.
“Our shared belief is that children with special needs can use digital technology. Over the past 10 years, innovations developed through the partnership between the Autistic Thai Foundation and True have enabled individuals with autism to learn, develop skills, build careers, and care for themselves throughout their lives. We are confident in continuing to support children with autism across Thailand,” Chusak concluded.
