In the past 3 years, the number of personnel in the securities business jumped from 3,000 in 2001 to 14,500 in 2003. This is particularly true during this period when the stock market is in a boom and the capital markets are posting new types of products, like debentures and derivatives. The need for qualified and experienced personnel has never been stronger. Moreover, at this time of change, personnel already in the securities business have to update their knowledge to be ready to embrace this growth.
"To meet these changes and demands the TSI has established the TSI Digital Testing Center, which features advanced technology, to provide a full-scale service. The center is equipped to handle applications, registrations, testing, checking results, and reporting results. This makes the TSI Digital Testing Center the most advanced securities business testing center in the Southeast Asian region. It can accommodate as many as 4,000 people per month or at least 48,000 people by the end of 2004.
Having an advanced testing center for the securities business will enhance the quality of personnel in the Thai capital markets and help ease the demand for trained professionals in this sector. The TSI should be able to produce about 3,500 knowledgeable and certified experts every year," Mr. Kittiratt said.
SET Executive Vice President in charge of educational functions line, Mr. Punsak Vejanurug, said the TSI Digital Testing Center is set up to serve those who are applying for certifications. These certifications include Equity, Debt, and Derivatives Marketing Representatives, Investment Planners, and Investment Advisors.
The TSI has seen a growth of testing applicants from 1,100 in 2001 to 8,500 in 2003. The testing method currently used cannot meet the increasing demands promptly and effectively. Therefore, it is imperative that the TSI brings in advanced technology to develop its testing methods to meet demands and to make it more convenient and speedy for those who want to be tested.
"The TSI Digital Testing Center will allow applicants to receive their scores and certifications of testing immediately after they complete the test. It would also rank the scores of the applicant in relation to the criteria as well as point out the tester's strengths and weaknesses in each test topic area. This would benefit the applicant in their preparations for their next testing. The center's efficient test result recording ensures transparency and fairness and has enabled the TSI Digital Testing Center to become an advanced, standardized, and transparent testing center," Mr. Pansak said.
The TSI Digital Testing Center is opened for testing and certification daily, including holidays. Testing is available 4 times a day from 09.00-21.00. Those interested can apply for testing and choose a convenient date and time through the TSI Registration Online at www.tsi-thailand.org.
The TSI Digital Testing Center is another development in TSI's services. Apart from arranging training in the areas of finance and investment on more than 50 occasions a year, TSI is now providing e-Learning for those interested in studying more about Thailand's capital markets. TSI also has the e-Tutor, which utilizes the latest technology that will help securities business personnel prepare for testing.
