On 5 March 2025, MHESI-NXPO welcomed a delegation from the Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO), led by Dr. Cholachit Vorawangso Virakul, Assistant Secretary General, for discussions on collaboration to advance the development of target industries. The meeting was attended by NXPO Vice Presidents Assoc. Prof. Wongkot Wongsapai and Dr. Siriporn Pittayasophon, along with Assistants to the President Dr. Nuwong Chollacoop and Dr. Oraphan Wiarachai


Dr. Chonlachit provided insights into EECO’s operations and support mechanisms related to technology, innovation, and workforce development. EECO currently focuses on promoting investment in five target industry clusters: 1) medical and healthcare, 2) digital (smart electronics, robotics, and defense technology), 3) next-generation automotive, 4) BCG industry (green and circular economy, biofuels and biochemicals, agriculture and biotechnology, and food processing), and 5) service industry (high-value and health tourism, aviation and logistics, and human resource development and education).
To support investments in these clusters, EECO has developed an enabling ecosystem that includes infrastructure, legal frameworks, workforce development programs, and a one-stop service center for investors. The office currently implements two workforce development models: 1) EEC Model Type A: Supports vocational and university-level education through work-integrated learning, and 2) EEC Model Type B: Focuses on short courses to upskill workers in industrial sectors. EEC Model Type C is being developed as a tailor-made workforce development program to better meet industry needs. EECO is also working to attract world-class higher education institutions to establish campuses in the EEC, fostering an Education Hub to support workforce development for EEC-based industries and beyond.

NXPO presented findings from its strategic position analysis, covering industry landscapes, technology potential, and workforce development opportunities in key sectors such as semiconductors, advanced electronics, and electric vehicles (EVs).

This exchange formed the groundwork for future collaboration between NXPO and EECO in research and policy design for higher education, science, research, and innovation. Potential areas of cooperation include technology development, expert networks, and workforce training to support investment in target industries within the EEC.

