Rayong: Rajamangala University of Technology Isan (RMUTI) recently convened its 2026 Retreat under the theme "Looking Back and Looking Forward for the Future of Isan" to draft its 5th strategic plan, with the goal of establishing itself as a "Future University." The event featured a special lecture by Professor Emeritus Dr. Surakiat Sathienthai on "Future Foresight and the Future of Thai Education," which provided insights into the future trajectory of Thai higher education.
According to Thai News Agency, the RMUTI Isan Retreat 2026 took place from July 31 to August 2, 2026, at the Holiday Inn and Suites Rayong City Center in Rayong Province. The gathering attracted over 200 participants, including university council members, experts, administrators, and staff, who collaborated to develop the 5th Strategic Plan for the Sustainable Development of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan for 2028-2032. The plan aims to transform RMUTI into a "Future University" capable of producing highly skilled personnel, fostering knowledge and innovation, and supporting sustainable national development.
The initiative occurs amid rapid global changes in technology, economics, and geopolitics, with the 5th National Strategy Plan serving as a vital framework for aligning the university's human resource development, research, and innovation with future industry needs.
Mr. Chatchai Promlert, Chairman of the University Council of RMUTI, presided over the opening ceremony and delivered a policy speech on the university's development. Associate Professor Dr. Kosit Sripootorn, President of RMUTI, outlined the project's objectives.
Mr. Chatchai emphasized that the strategic plan is more than a five-year operational plan; it defines the university's development direction to prepare for global economic, technological, and social changes. The plan results from collaborative efforts across various sectors, reflecting a shared vision to establish RMUTI as a leading technology university that contributes to national development and the sustainable advancement of the Isan region.
Associate Professor Dr. Khosit Sripuhtorn highlighted that the retreat provided a platform to review the results of the university's previous strategic plan and to draft the 5th strategic plan. This plan aims to align RMUTI's development with the rapidly evolving global landscape, address industrial sector needs, and support Thailand's future development.
A significant highlight of the conference was a lecture by Professor Dr. Surakiat Sathienthai, who presented a global strategic vision for Thai higher education's future role. His "Future Foresight" concept emphasized systematic future planning, trend analysis, and proactive strategy design. The recommendations from this lecture will inform the development of RMUTI's new strategic plan.
The retreat included discussions and workshops to refine the draft strategy, focusing on four strategic areas. Vice-presidents oversaw each area as group chairpersons. Additionally, a workshop explored RMUTI's New S-Curve through strategic exchanges on 14 future industries, aiming to align curriculum development, research, and innovation with the country's strategic industries and labor market needs.
The event concluded with a presentation of the revised draft of the 5th National Strategy and a summary of key takeaways, led by Mr. Chatchai Promlert, President of the University Council.
This year's RMUTI Retreat 2026 serves as a starting point for collaboratively shaping the future of Thai higher education. By integrating knowledge, vision, and experience from all sectors, RMUTI aims to become a "Future University" that plays a pivotal role in developing the future workforce and enhancing Thailand's competitiveness sustainably.