On 7 November 2024, Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) held the 1st Policy Dialogue between the two ministries via virtual conference. Co-chaired by Dr. Luksmon Smansin, Director of International Affairs Division at MHESI, and Ms. Kathrin Meyer, Head of the Division for Cooperation with Asia and Oceania at BMBF, the meeting aimed to foster a deeper understanding of ministerial policies and explore new collaboration opportunities in mutually beneficial areas. Key topics included science, technology and innovation (STI) policies, major initiatives and projects, funding mechanisms, and joint action plans for 2025.
Representing NXPO were Senior Policy Specialist Dr. Soontharee Namliwal and Policy Specialist Mr. Parinand Varnasavang. During the meeting, Mr. Parinand presented on “Key STI Policies and Initiatives” to provide an overview of Thailand’s higher education, science, research, and innovation system, STI policies and strategies, key initiatives, and international cooperation. In addition, a representative from Thailand Science Research Innovation (TSRI) presented on “Funding Mechanisms,” detailing fund management strategies to support and drive Thailand’s research and innovation system. German representatives introduced their agencies and shared key policies and cooperation projects.
This Policy Dialogue marked a valuable step in advancing STI collaboration following the Joint Declaration of Intent between MHESI and BMBF signed in Paris on 23 April 2024. Both sides agreed to hold the Policy Dialogue quarterly. BMBF is scheduled to host the next meeting in February/March 2025.
