On 18 – 19 February 2025, Mae Fah Luang University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Section of Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kunming, and the Yunnan Provincial Department of Education, co-organised the 4th Thai-Yunnan Education Cooperation Forum under the theme “The Way Forward: Shaping the Future of Thai-Yunnan Education” at Mae Fah Luang University. Over 170 participants from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Royal Thai Consulate-General in Kunming, the Yunnan Provincial Department of Education, and higher education institutes in Thailand and Yunnan Province, China, attended this forum.
The forum, held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, served as a platform for participants to jointly discuss and exchange approaches for driving cooperation in three areas: 1. Exchange of language learning and culture to serve as a bridge strengthening friendship between people at the grassroots level; 2. Cooperation in science, technology and innovation to improve quality of life and build strong communities; and 3. Promotion of roles and cooperation in higher education both at bilateral and multilateral levels for sustainable development.
In the opening ceremony, Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President of Mae Fah Luang University, said that this conference was being held for the first time in Thailand. Chiang Rai serves as a gateway to the Greater Mekong sub-region, which has long-standing relations with China. Although diplomatic relations mark their 50th anniversary this year, the relationship between Chiang Rai and Yunnan runs deeper. Over the past 26 years, MFU has received support from the Chinese government in establishing the Confucius Institute and the Sirindhorn Chinese Language and Culture Center, along with research collaborations with Yunnan's leading institutions in mycology, herbs, tea, and coffee, gaining international recognition.
Mr. Ruttisak Rangsri, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai Province, on behalf of the Chiang Rai Governor, stated that Chiang Rai province and Yunnan province maintain close relations as "sister cities," cooperating in various areas, including economy, trade, tourism, and culture, with an emphasis on sustainable development through education and human resource development. This conference presents an important opportunity for academics from both countries to build networks and exchange knowledge to enhance the potential of both Thai and Chinese youth.
Mr. Tang Jiahua, Secretary of CPC Kunming University of Science and Technology Committee, said that this conference is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand. It focused on building sustainable cooperation platforms, educational and cultural exchanges, research collaboration, and establishing international joint laboratories to develop technology and innovation for future industries.
Dr. Luksmon Smansin, Director of the International Affairs Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), stated that this conference is an important opportunity to extend relations between Thailand and China, while affirming Thailand's commitment to cooperation for sustainable economic and educational development.
The forum featured keynote speeches on ‘Current Landscape of Thai University Development: Retrospective and Future Outlook on Thailand-Yunnan Education Partnership,’ delivered by Professor Dr. Vanchai Sirichana, Chairman of Mae Fah Luang University Council, and ‘Recent Policies and Developments in Yunnan Higher Education: Pathways for Partnership with Thailand,’ presented by Mr. Chen Fei, Vice President of Yunnan Normal University, followed by panel discussion on “The Value of Thai-Chinese Education Cooperation in Advancing Human Capacity Development and Shared Growth: Reflections from Stakeholders”.
Moreover, participants were divided into five sub-group meetings, including 1. University Presidents’ Roundtable Meeting, 2. Green Development, 3. Medicine and Health, 4. Science, Technology and Agriculture, and 5. Language and Culture. Discussions highlighted the exchange of policies and recent updates on university development in Thailand and Yunnan, sharing best practices and success stories in higher education initiatives, as well as exploring future cooperation in priority areas and networking opportunities.
Participants also joined MFU study visit activities to explore facilities and laboratories, including the Medicinal Plant Innovation Center, the SMEs Cosmetic Center, the MFU Hospital, the Sirindhorn Chinese Language and Culture Center, and the MFU Medical Center.
This gathering was a success, marking a significant step in strengthening educational ties between Thailand and China, particularly during the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. It also lays the foundation for sustainable future cooperation to develop education, well-being, and quality of life for people in the region, and to enhance the potential of Thai and Chinese youth to become important driving forces for ASEAN and China in the future.
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