Bangkok: The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) is advancing its collaboration with the British Council through the Thailand-UK TNE Exploratory Grants program, now in its second year. This initiative aims to develop a joint curriculum focusing on future skills, social skills, and a global perspective for learners.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thailand-UK TNE Exploratory Grants project emphasizes areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors, satellites, and healthcare. Dr. Panphermsak Arunee, Deputy Permanent Secretary of MHESI, and Mr. Danny Whitehead, Director of the British Council in Thailand, led a workshop seminar titled 'Igniting Thailand's Future: Transforming Higher Education and Future Talent through Thai-UK TNE Partnerships' at the Eastin Grand Hotel, Phaya Thai, Bangkok. The event gathered prominent figures like Dr. Pomthong Malakul Na Ayutthaya, Secretary-General of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand, Mr. Neil M Russell from Forvis Mazars, and various education stakeholders.
Dr. Panphomsak highlighted the seminar's role in enhancing Thai-UK higher education cooperation via Transnational Education (TNE). The initiative seeks to foster knowledge exchange, improve higher education institutions' capacities, and develop curricula that integrate future and soft skills, alongside a global perspective. This cooperation is envisioned to position Thailand as a regional education hub.
The program supports the creation of joint curricula, integrated programs, and international education models including joint, dual, and two-institution degree programs. It aligns with national development strategies and aims to meet future labor market needs by providing quality education and developing skilled human resources.
Mr. Danny Whitehead emphasized that educational cooperation is key to building trust and understanding between Thailand and the UK, noting the longstanding educational relationship marked by over 170 years of collaboration and the presence of more than 7,000 Thai students in the UK. The recent visit of Princess Anne to Thailand further highlights the importance of cooperation in education, science, and health.
TNE is viewed as essential for improving human resource quality, enhancing higher education institutions' potential, increasing competitiveness, and addressing global challenges. It offers Thai youth greater access to internationally recognized education, reinforcing Thailand's potential as a regional hub for higher education, science, research, and innovation.