Prime Minister Mr. Srettha Thavisin recently chaired the meeting of the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council (Policy Council), while Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, served as Vice Chairpersons. The Policy Council, comprising ministers, top government officials and appointed experts, convened on 5 January 2024 at the Government House.
In his capacity as a member and deputy secretary of the Policy Council, NXPO President Dr. Kitipong Promwong revealed that the Prime Minister expressed concerns about various challenges facing Thailand, including technological shifts and the country’s competitiveness level. Thus, the government has been directed to prioritize the education improvement. Special emphasis is placed on the development of higher education, science, research, and innovation, as they are the key to enhance a skilled workforce to meet current labor market demands, and contribute to the high-tech industries, income elevation and improved competitiveness.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of startups. He believed Thai universities hold great potential to create innovations that can turn into multimillion-baht businesses and therefore incubation programs to nurture entrepreneurs are essential. In addition, he stressed the need for universities to support lifelong learning, enhancing skill levels for individuals of all ages and adapting to changes in technology, innovation, and labor market needs.
For science, research, and innovation, focus is placed on research aligned with the government’s policies. This includes electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel, clean energy, renewable energy, green economy, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, computer technology, advanced medical technology, and future food. Funding will be directed towards projects contributing to economic growth. The Prime Minister also encouraged public engagement to drive the national economic and social development, aiming to turn Thailand into an advanced industrial nation.
During the meeting, the Policy Council endorsed the budget framework for the 2025 fiscal year. The budget of THB 108.15 billion was allocated for higher education and THB 42 billion for science, research, and innovation, totaling THB 150.15 billion. This budget covers workforce development, university excellence enhancement, as well as research, innovation, and science and technology development projects.
Photo credit: The Secretariat of the Prime Minister
