On 7 – 11 September 2025, Mae Fah Luang University’s School of Social Innovation, in collaboration with Takasaki City University of Economics, hosted the student exchange programme on multicultural and border studies. The programme was led by Dr. Jaruwan Hatapasu, a lecturer of the School of Social Innovation.
This programme focused on creating an integrated learning experience between Thai and Japanese students through multicultural studies in the borderland context of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. It also provided opportunities for students from both countries to exchange academic perspectives and experiences.
The programme featured academic discussions and field trips across Chiang Rai Province to explore multiculturalism and borderland studies. Students conducted fieldwork at the Doi Tung Development Project to learn about sustainable development, visited Suan Khun Pu Life Museum to study local life and culture, and toured Wat Rong Khun to gain insights into local history and culture. They also collected data at Akha Hill, Akha Mino Coffee Chiangrai, and Akha Cottage Coffee, examining community economic development and sustainable agriculture.
Students also visited the Chiang Rai Migrant Workers Assistance Center and learned about social issues along the border from a migrant labor activist, followed by field studies in Mae Sai District for in-depth data collection.
Mae Fah Luang University and Takasaki City University of Economics a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote educational and research exchange programmes. This academic exchange project plays an important role in strengthening academic cooperation between Thai and Japanese institutions. It also promotes interdisciplinary learning that equips students to become global citizens with cultural awareness and the ability to work effectively in multicultural societies.
