NRCT Hosts Welcome Reception for STS forum Delegation and Thai and International Speakers at the STS forum Japan–Thailand Symposium 2026
24 April 2026
On 23 April 2026, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, hosted the Welcome Reception of the “STS forum Japan–Thailand Symposium 2026.” The event was honored by a welcome address and special keynote titled “Unlocking Thailand’s Potential: Turning Vision into Impact” delivered by Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The reception was also attended by Dr. Sriyada Palimaphan, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI; Professor Dr. Sirirurg Songsivilai, Chairman of the National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation; and Dr. Wiparat De-Ong, Executive Director of NRCT. International distinguished guests included Professor Sadayuki Tsuchiya, Executive Director of the STS forum; Professor Mikako Hayashi, Vice President of The University of Osaka; and Professor Dr. Yoshio Otani, Director of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Bangkok Office. The reception was held at Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, Bangkok.
Professor Dr. Yodchanan stated that the “STS forum 2026” serves as an important platform for exchanging knowledge in science, research, and innovation, with the aim of applying it to address challenges across multiple dimensions. These include the role of technology in the modern world, climate change, and environmental issues, all of which are urgent matters requiring collaboration from all sectors—government, academia, industry, the private sector, and the global community—in jointly shaping future development directions and addressing upcoming challenges. He further noted that Thailand has been advancing policies by strengthening its innovation ecosystem and integrating cooperation among the education sector, industry, and government in order to accelerate the practical application of knowledge. This effort aims to enhance people’s quality of life, strengthen national competitiveness, and promote sustainable development.
Dr. Sriyada highlighted the importance of promoting the exchange of knowledge in science, research, and innovation at the international level amid a rapidly changing global landscape. She also emphasized the critical role of international cooperation in addressing major challenges such as climate change, energy security, and social inequality. She further noted that Thailand is committed to strengthening its innovation ecosystem, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and enhancing international partnerships to drive tangible and sustainable development in the future.
Professor Dr. Supachai stated that the collaboration between NRCT and the STS forum in organizing this event serves as a key mechanism for strengthening an international “knowledge network.” It also promotes concrete cooperation among the public sector, academia, and the private sector in exchanging knowledge, technology, and innovation. This, in turn, will contribute to the development of approaches and the enhancement of capabilities to address today’s global challenges.
Professor Dr. Sirirurg highlighted the importance of the STS forum as a platform that goes beyond academic exchange, placing emphasis on science and technology in relation to society, including both the “light and shadow” aspects of science and technology. He also referred to the STS forum Young Leaders Network, which serves as an important mechanism for promoting international cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. The network provides opportunities for early-career researchers to exchange knowledge and build connections with global leaders. For Thailand, this approach aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation’s policy to develop research and innovation human capital, enhance the capabilities of Thai researchers on the global stage, and drive the country toward a sustainable innovation-driven economy.
Dr. Wiparat highlighted the strong and continuous collaboration between NRCT and the STS forum, which has been ongoing since 2017, with a shared commitment to promoting international cooperation in science and technology. This collaboration has been supported by an international network of experts, which has played a key role in the success of the event. She further noted that the forum serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation development, and joint efforts to address global challenges. It also helps foster new networks of cooperation and further expand future collaborations.
The “STS forum Japan–Thailand Symposium 2026” will be held from 24–25 April 2026 under the theme “The Great Convergence: AI-Driven Health, Environment and Bio-Economy” at the World Ballroom, 23rd Floor, Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld.
