Mae Fah Luang University students were selected as four of 35 Thai students from 16 universities nationwide to participate in the 14-day 2nd Experiential Learning Programme (ELP). The programme, co-organised by the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and Science and Technology Park, Chiang Mai University, aims to accelerate university student entrepreneurs through collaboration between the regional Science Parks and global partners and facilitate knowledge exchange with business experts in United Kingdom, France, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
The selected MFU students are:
1. Mr. Tanat Na Nongkhai - Master's student in Creative Innovation in Cosmetic Science, School of Cosmetic Science
2. Ms. Budsaraporn Munkongpiyachat - Bachelor's student in Cosmetic Science, School of Cosmetic Science
3. Mr. Chakrit Selamn - Bachelor's student in Business Administration, School of Management
4. Ms. Anadda Ginboran - Bachelor's student in Cosmetic Science, School of Cosmetic Science
Mr. Tanat Na Nongkhai was further selected as one of seven students representing Thailand in France.
On 17 November 2024, Dr. Punpermsak Aruni, Director of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Drive and Development Division and Acting Advisor for the Development on Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, along with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pitiwat Wattanachai, Director of Science and Technology Park, Chiang Mai University, led a delegation of students from five higher education institutions (Chiang Mai University, Mae Fah Luang University, Khon Kaen University, Ubon Ratchathani University, and King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi) to present their final pitches to French entrepreneurship experts in France.
Dr. Punpermsak Aruni highlighted that seven innovative products that students had developed and tested with entrepreneurs and market testing in Lyon, France included:
1. Jewelry products connected to memories on an online platform
2. Energy-saving bricks that insulate buildings and are designed for easy installation
3. A highly customizable private cultural and nature tourism platform
4. Natural spray coating to protect and remove stains from sneakers
5. An AI platform helping beekeepers prevent risks and improve honey production with comprehensive and accurate insights
6. Pressure ulcer dressings with a 48-hour drug delivery system
7. Can Care Mousse - a waterless shampoo with natural extracts for effective cleaning, safe for patients and environmentally sustainable
The presentation was attended by French entrepreneurship experts from ECAM (École catholique d'arts et métiers), a renowned French business incubator, led by Ms. Séverine Delavernhe, ECAM LaSalle Lyon Campus Direct; Ms. Eerin Monaghan, SME Pole Manager; and Mrs. Caroline Hanras, International Relations Department Manager. The experts provided concepts and suggestions to the students.
By participating in the programme, students had the opportunity to learn from international incubators and develop their entrepreneurial skills. Additionally, they gained diverse perspectives on business and innovation, which will benefit their future endeavors.
