MHESI-NXPO recently participated in the APEC Workshop on Women in STEM: Study and Exchange on Rewards, Incentives, and Policies to Promote Innovation Development. Organized by Beijing Academy of Science and Technology with support from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the workshop was held in Beijing, China on 12-13 December 2024.
The event aimed to foster an open and inclusive environment for women, particularly professionals in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). It explored strategies to create incentives in education, careers, and entrepreneurship to enhance women’s participation in STEM initiatives. In addition, the workshop sought to provide policymakers with deeper insights into developing policies to advance STI innovation in the region.
At the workshop, Ms. Panisa Harnpathananun, Director of Higher Education Innovation and Future Skills Development Division at NXPO, presented Thailand’s public policies supporting women in the workforce. She highlighted incentives for the private sector to engage in STI workforce development, such as the Thailand Plus Package and promotional measures from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI). These initiatives include support for skill development and the employment of women in STEM fields, marking a significant step toward empowering women to play critical roles in STI professions and contributing to the advancement of Thailand’s strategic industries.
Dr. Suthida Piriyakarnsakul, Policy Specialist at NXPO, joined a panel discussion on “Women in STEM: Empowering the Future” during the session on Opportunities and Challenges of Practice of Outstanding Young Women STEM Workers. She emphasized Thailand’s dedication to promoting women’s roles in STI across various stages, from youth to professional careers. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI) has launched several initiatives, such as “Women Made: Girl in STEM”, aimed at inspiring and cultivating STEM skills among young women. In addition, MHESI supports STEM education and research networks and established awards to recognize outstanding female researchers to motivate Thai youth to pursue STEM careers. Furthermore, NXPO presented policy recommendations and expressed its readiness to collaborate with other countries to enhance women’s contributions to driving STI in the region. Through these efforts, NXPO reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality through STI policies, fostering sustainable growth and strengthening Thailand’s position on the global stage.
