In Thailand, the need for skills in the labor force will become even greater in the next decade as the country's industrial and service companies seek to increase productivity through technological and organizational change. Historically, the limited provision of secondary education was a major bottleneck in skills development in Thailand. Major expansion in the 1990s, however, lifted enrollment rates to about 72% at the lower secondary level by the end of the decade, and 48% at the upper secondary level for both boys and girls. To assist policymakers and planners in their consideration of many complex decisions, including future international financial assistance, this study evaluated Thailand's system of secondary education and skills development. The study encompassed various background studies commissioned on key aspects of the system and followed a collaborative approach. This report is divided into the following chapters: (1) "Overview of the Thai Context" (Macroeconomic Environment, Trends in Thailand's Human Capital Stock); (2) "Impetus for Change" (Global Market Forces and Implications for Skills Needed, Legislative Basis for Education Reform); (3) "Governance and Administration" (Role of the Central Administration; Role of Local Authorities and Training Institutions in a Devolved System, Role of Private Providers); (4) "Using Market Forces to Guide Decisions"; (5) "Promoting Quality of Educational Outcomes" (Establishing Content and Performance Standards for Students, Measuring Student and School Performance, Harnessing Technology, Supporting Teacher and Principal Capacity); and (6) "Finance and Equity Issues." Contains 19 figures and a 39-item bibliography. (BT)