On 28 February 2025, NXPO and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) held discussions on collaboration to develop a highly skilled workforce aligned with Thailand’s policies, aimed at strengthening the country’s readiness in science, technology, and innovation to meet global challenges. Attendees included Dr. Surachai Sathitkunarat, President of NXPO; Prof. Dr. Surin Khomfoi, Vice President of NXPO; Ms. Karin Schelzig, Director of Human and Social Development at ADB; Mr. Chong Fook Yen, Social Sector Specialist at ADB; ADB consultants, including Mr. Sandy Ewart, Assist. Prof. Dr. Suvaluk Asavasanti and Ms. Anittha Jutarosaga; and NXPO staff.
Dr. Surachai introduced NXPO’s initiatives in workforce development, particularly in semiconductors and advanced electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), and artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized NXPO’s commitment to collaborating with ADB on talent development—fostering both brainpower and manpower—as well as advancing research and innovation to position Thailand as a hub for high-value manufacturing driven by domestic technology and expertise.
Ms. Karin Schelzig outlined ADB’s role in supporting education across all levels, from basic to higher education, including vocational training and innovation development. She also highlighted ADB’s engagement in healthcare and social protection initiatives across various regions, including Southeast Asia.
Mr. Chong Fook Yen and the ADB team presented findings on Thailand’s investments in research and innovation, with a focus on the transition to a knowledge-based economy to reduce reliance on imports. The analysis focuses on key industries such as semiconductors and advanced electronics, agriculture and food, and healthcare.
Dr. Surin noted that the Thai government shares a strong commitment to the priority industries identified in ADB’s study, leading to workforce development programs, starting with the semiconductor and advanced electronics sector. NXPO Policy Specialist Dr. Suthida Piriyakarnsakul presented workforce development models that foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
NXPO’s workforce development strategy aligns closely with ADB’s priorities, underscoring strong potential for collaboration in cultivating a highly skilled workforce. Dr. Surin reaffirmed NXPO’s readiness to work with ADB in advancing Thailand’s semiconductor and advanced electronics industry. Following the success of this pilot initiative, the collaboration could expand to other sectors, such as agriculture and food. Additionally, NXPO remains open to broader partnerships with ADB to drive sustainable growth in Thailand and across the ASEAN region.
