A new ministry is to be established in Thailand, merging science, research and higher education

The Office of the Higher Education Commission, responsible for higher education in Thailand and currently under the Ministry of Education, is to merge with the Ministry of Science and Technology in order to respond effectively to Thailand’s aspiration of becoming an innovation-led economy.

A few months ago, it was revealed that higher education would become separate from the Ministry of Education, which is currently responsible for all sectors of education: basic, vocational, and higher. The new ministry will be known as either the Ministry of Research and Higher Education or Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education. Dr. Suvit Maesincee, Minister of Science and Technology is confident that the merger will take place during this governmental term.

The new ministry will be formed by merging several organisations and agencies with the Ministry of Science and Technology: Office of Higher Education Commission (currently under the Ministry of Education), the Thailand Research Fund (currently under the Office of the Prime Minister), and the National Research Council of Thailand. Thai society will receive multiple benefits from this merger, such as preparing people for the twenty-first century, equipping entrepreneurs with advanced technology, preparing those working in agriculture to become smart farmers, and responding to new industries in the future. In addition, higher education institutions will have clearer roles for driving the country’s economy with technology and innovation. It is also expected that research funding will be managed more strategically.

As for UK institutions, more opportunities are expected for research partnerships, especially in the study areas of advanced technology. Higher education in Thailand will focus more on research and innovation. Rajabhat Universities will also be delegated tasks to respond to the needs of the communities in which they are based. Extra funding is also anticipated, both in terms of research and overseas study in the areas of research and advanced technology.

Source of information: https://www.prachachat.net/breaking-news/news-161201 and https://www.dailynews.co.th/it/644377