Bangkok: In response to the global trend of aging populations and Thailand's own transition towards becoming a super-aged society, the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD) has initiated the 'Longevity for All' project. This ambitious initiative aims to equip Thai citizens of all ages with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in an aging economy.
According to Thai News Agency, the 'Longevity for All' project is part of the broader 2026 Soft Power Wellness Skills Development Program. It focuses on fostering good health, enhancing quality of life, and ensuring continued economic and social participation for Thais. Dr. Tawarut Sutabutr, Director of OKMD, emphasized the importance of preparing for increased life expectancy, which is reshaping economic and social structures globally. He highlighted that achieving a long-lived society involves more than just healthcare; it requires a shift in mindsets, skills, and lifestyles, aligning with OKMD's role as a learning and development organization.
The project seeks to democratize knowledge about longevity, ensuring it is available to all citizens. This supports the government's policy to enhance quality of life and promote the silver economy through preventive healthcare, technology, and innovation. OKMD collaborates with the private sector and educational institutions to integrate knowledge in neuroscience, sensory science, and lifelong learning, focusing on well-being, conducive living environments, and life skills development.
OKMD, in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University, has designed capacity-building activities under the 'Longevity for All' project. These include the Science-based Longevity Economy Workshop, targeting at least 1,000 participants across four regions in Thailand, and an 8-week Accelerator Program focusing on neuroscience and sensory science for young entrepreneurs. These programs aim to harness the potential of the aging society market and drive innovation in goods and services.
To ensure public access to this knowledge, OKMD partnered with Fongmek Co., Ltd. to produce educational content and exhibitions. The project features experts from various fields and disseminates materials through the OKMD Knowledge Portal, including videos, articles, and digital clips. A highlight is the Knowledge Festival exhibition, scheduled for September 2026, which will explore themes of quality living, relationships, and lifelong learning.
Dr. Tawarath emphasized that the project's goal extends beyond health awareness to creating a knowledge ecosystem that connects well-being, learning, environment, and economy. This initiative aims to lower healthcare costs, enhance quality of life, and open new opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs. He views the aging society not just as a challenge but as an opportunity for Thailand, with 'Longevity for All' set to play a crucial role in transforming the Thai economy and society.