Thammasat & FTI Join Forces to Boost Thai Industry's Competitiveness
Thammasat University and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) have joined forces to bolster Thailand's industrial competitiveness. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 8, 2025, committing to academic and research collaboration. The alliance aims to develop industry-aligned curricula, training, and innovation, crucial for upskilling, reskilling, and new-skilling personnel to meet evolving demands.
The collaboration, spearheaded by Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, focuses on creating a 'Food for Longevity' curriculum. This will produce graduates equipped with practical skills to tackle real-world industry problems. The initiative also involves Problem-based Learning (PBL) internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in solving industrial challenges.
The partnership will conduct research and development (R&D) for new knowledge, innovations, products, and services. This includes projects in bioplastics, bioenergy, biochemicals, biopharmaceuticals, future foods, and cosmetics, all of which are expected to see significant market growth by 2030. These projects align with consumer trends, safety, quality, and environmental sustainability. Notably, they include the EU projects iCULTURE and PRIMED, which focus on circular bioeconomy and valorization of biomass into biobased products.
Mr. Kriangkrai Thiennukul, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, highlighted the challenges and opportunities in Thailand's industrial sector. The collaboration aims to develop human resources and innovation, leveraging Thailand's potential in technology and biodiversity. By achieving these goals, the Thai industry's international competitiveness is set to be significantly boosted.