Vietnam and Thailand strengthen academic ties: progress in Khon Kaen!

Vietnam and Thailand strengthen academic ties: progress in Khon Kaen!

In a significant step to promote academic cooperation between Thailand and Vietnam, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Tung delivered the book “Uncle Ho in Thailand” to the ASEAN Studies Center at Khon Kaen University. At this reception, chaired by Associate Professor Dr. Keeratiporn Jutawiriya, Director of the Center for ASEAN Studies, and Associate Professor Dr. Thananan Boonwanna, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Department of Mekong Studies, those present discussed strengthening the basis for cooperation in various academic fields. Lecturers and doctoral students from Khon Kaen University were also there and expanded knowledge about the Mekong region.

The discussion sessions focused primarily on the development of Vietnamese teaching and the creation of a comprehensive learning center for Vietnam Studies at the Department of Social Sciences and Humanities at Khon Kaen University. Such steps are intended to strengthen the knowledge base about Vietnam and expand intercultural exchange between the two countries. In addition, the Vietnamese Consulate General in Khon Kaen, together with the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, will continue further discussions with the university management.

Academic collaboration in focus

Khon Kaen University, founded in 1964 and serving as the oldest higher education institution in northeast Thailand, is not only an educational institution but also a major research center with over 40,000 students. The university is considered a leader in the fields of health sciences, natural sciences and social and economic sciences and is aiming to further expand its Mekong Studies program, which will be launched in October 2025, to increase its international reputation, as kku.ac.th reports.

An example of the university's ambitious plans is the upcoming visit by a KKU delegation to leading academic institutions in Hanoi, Vietnam. The aim is to consolidate the networks for academic exchange between the two countries. During this trip, which will take place from September 15 to 18, 2028, workshops will be held dedicated, among other things, to promoting the Thai language in Vietnam.

Mekong Studies Center: A Bridge Between Countries

The Mekong Studies Center, founded in 2002 at Chulalongkorn University, is dedicated to research on the countries of the Mekong subregion and was recognized as a Center of Excellence in 2009. With a focus on Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and southern China, it not only provides academic services but also advises public and private sectors on key development issues. In this way, the ias.chula.ac.th ensures a better understanding of the geopolitical and cultural dynamics in the region.

By creating strong networks and promoting an active exchange program, every effort is made to maximize the opportunities for future collaborations in education, research and sustainable development within the Mekong region. Such initiatives not only increase the qualifications of students, but also promote a deeper understanding of the culture and societies of the neighboring country.