imported requiring foreign exchange or external aid or loan. The Ministry of Education made attempts at solving this· problem by seeking external assistance for the establslhment of Schools Equipment Development Unit 223 <SEDU) (Figure 1). Implementation of this scheme countries or requires external assistance from other International organizations. Sma I I foundry l I Figure 1. SEDU Research unit for Moulds and proto­ type deve I opment I I I I I I l Special Unit tor repair I I service and manufacture of I I precision Instruments. I l I I I ---~--------------------------------------~---1 I I Variety of basic schools equipment ready for sale/ 1 I distribution to schools/col leges. I I I Scholarships to academically and professionally outstanding techlclans who will special lze In the repair, service, and modify vital precision Instruments scattered all over the country In schools. col leges and universities Is needed. Considerable quantity of advanced science equipment, donated by friendly countries are out of service bec&use of poor maintenance, repair and replacement. In order to effectively develop science and technology, a common language of communication becomes vital. The understanding and appre~ietlon of science can set roots In any nation If It Is popularized with simple I lterature and other aids understandable to the majority of the people. Reasonably literate people can assimilate simple research findings If they are written In the language they know. Social environments and attitudes are extremely vital for any language development. 224. SCIENCE POLICY AND PLAN IN THAILAND GENERAL BACKGROUND In Thailand. science and technology has gradually been real !zed to be the basis for economic development and emphasized In the National Economic and Social Development Plans. The First Plan (1961-1966) emphasized on the building up of the economic Infrastructure, namely, construction of highways, irrigation dams 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the challenges faced by the Ministry of Education in Thailand in establishing a Schools Equipment Development Unit (SEDU) to provide schools with essential equipment and instruments. The unit aims to improve science education and technology development in the country. The text also highlights the importance of language development and popularizing science among the general public. Additionally, it mentions the need for scholarships for outstanding technicians and the donation of advanced science equipment from friendly countries.

**Category**
Education, Science and technology