Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother was presented with the title of the “Mother and Teacher of the Land,” following a proposal by the Ministry of Education, which was endorsed by the Cabinet during its meeting on 7 May 2013.

The presentation of the title was meant to honor Her Majesty in commemoration of her 80th birthday anniversary, 12 August 2012. The Cabinet also appointed a committee to screen relevant documents to seek royal permission for the presentation.

The Ministry of Education stated in its proposal that Her Majesty Queen Sirikit always stood by the side of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, working actively and tirelessly to share royal missions and activities and improve the life of the people.

Concerning education, Her Majesty was aware of the need to eliminate illiteracy and reduce social disadvantages. The Queen believed that education was necessary for human, social, and national development. Her Majesty contributed to Thailand’s education in many ways. For instance, she granted scholarships for needy students and disadvantaged youths.

The Queen accepted many educational institutions and foundations under her royal patronage. She also provided support for the setting up and expansion of schools in remote areas. Her contribution to education was evident and recognized in both Thailand and abroad. 

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit was the model teacher for the royal children, who have followed in her footsteps in providing people with education support. Apart from promoting education, Her Majesty sometimes taught local villagers herself, when she accompanied King Bhumibol on his visits to the people in remote areas. She played a vital role in non-formal education without discrimination, as well.

Her Majesty devoted her time and energy to caring for the four royal children during their younger days. As the royal children approached adulthood, Her Majesty found more time to involve herself in many areas of public life, especially concerning public welfare and the plight of the poor and the underprivileged. 

Devoted to her people as a mother was to her children, Her Majesty the Queen traveled to remote corners of the country to be close to her people. She provided them with knowledge and job opportunities, as shown in her initiative in establishing the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques, or SUPPORT Foundation.

Since she became Queen of Thailand, millions of children and mothers in Thailand benefited from basic services, such as education health care, and income generation.