“Danuphorn” Opens the 14th Regional Research Expo, Highlighting “Research Synergy” to Meet Local Needs and Link Academic Knowledge with Community Wisdom at NRRU
20 August 2026
“Danuphorn” Opens the 14th Regional Research Expo, Highlighting “Research Synergy” to Meet Local Needs and Link Academic Knowledge with Community Wisdom at NRRU
On August 20, Mr. Danuphorn Punnakanta, Assistant Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), was assigned by Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of MHESI, to preside over the opening ceremony and deliver a special keynote at the “14th Regional Research Expo.” The event was held under the concept of “Research Synergy: The Power of Research and Isan Wisdom, Connecting Thailand’s Future with Research and Innovation.”
Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), delivered the reporting speech. Mr. Wijit Kitwirat, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adisorn Naowanont, President of Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University (NRRU), alongside university executives and higher education officials, welcomed the attendees. Faculty members, researchers, students, and network partners from all sectors attended the event at the Rajabhat Rangsarit Auditorium, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University.
Mr. Danuphorn stated that Thailand faces major challenges, including technological warfare, climate change, and an aging society. To address these challenges, MHESI aims to harness the power of “Synergy” by translating science, research, and innovation into practical solutions that create economic opportunities, generate income, and improve quality of life.
“MHESI will leverage the network of 38 Rajabhat Universities, which have strong ties with local communities, to identify their needs and build on existing research for practical applications. In collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, local governments, and the private sector, we will integrate academic knowledge with local wisdom and ways of life to ensure research delivers tangible benefits,” He said.
He further added that another crucial goal is to elevate the Northeastern region into a “Global Food Hub.” MHESI is preparing to establish a food irradiation facility in Nakhon Ratchasima within the 2027 fiscal year to extend the shelf life of agricultural produce, food, and herbs, as well as to eliminate fungi and insects. This initiative will help reduce costs and increase export opportunities, particularly by connecting to the Chinese market via the railway network.
Furthermore, MHESI aims to drive the Wellness Economy through the domestic research and development of medical equipment, as well as adding value to Thai herbs for medical and export purposes. By utilizing the “Frontline MHESI” mechanism, the ministry will coordinate with relevant agencies to ease limitations regarding FDA standards, enabling community entrepreneurs to develop and export their products to the market more swiftly.
“Science is not merely about experimentation; it must add value, create distinction, and generate income. When communities are strong, the younger generation can return to build their families and careers in their hometowns. Research will serve as a vital tool in preserving local wisdom sustainably within the community,” Mr. Danuphorn stated.
Dr. Wiparat explained that the Regional Research Expo aims to promote the dissemination and practical application of research across different regions. The 14th edition, held in Nakhon Ratchasima in 2026, is co-hosted by Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University under the theme “Research Synergy.” The Expo provides a platform to showcase regional research potential, exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and connect research with local needs and practical applications.
This year’s event features participation from over 40 higher education institutions and local agencies, presenting more than 150 research and academic works. The expo also includes 15 meetings and seminars, research and innovation contests, a youth innovation exhibition, and displays of local development projects, alongside community products from over 90 local shops and communities.
Mr. Wijit Kitwirat, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, stated that the province is fully prepared to support the application of research and innovation to solve problems, enhance the quality of life, and create economic opportunities for its residents. This aligns with the “Research Synergy” concept, which seeks to unite the efforts of all sectors for sustainable regional development.
Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adisorn Naowanont, President of Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, emphasized that the university is committed to promoting research that addresses local challenges and needs by linking academic knowledge with community wisdom. The university also strives to build collaborative networks among academia, the public and private sectors, and citizens to drive research toward practical, real-world applications.
Interested individuals can attend the 14th Regional Research Expo from today until August 22, 2026, at the Rajabhat Rangsarit Auditorium, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
