Thammasat and Seoul National University co-host the 14th Asian Universities Forum
Thammasat University, in collaboration with Seoul National University (SNU) of the Republic of Korea, co-hosted the 14th Asian Universities Forum from 11 -13 December 2025. Held under the theme “Innovative, Inclusive, Global: The New DNA of Higher Education”, the annual forum provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, academic exchange, and collaboration. Participants engaged in thematic discussions and presentations, shared insights, and explored new ideas aimed at strengthening institutional partnerships and collectively shaping the future of higher education in Asia.
Reception Dinner
On 11 December, Thammasat hosted a reception dinner at the Sukosol Hotel, Bangkok, where AUF members were provided an opportunity to network, reconnect, and foster closer relationships in an informal and welcoming atmosphere.
Annual Forum
The Annual Forum took place on 12 December at the Prakob Hutasingha Conference Room, Tha Prachan Campus, Bangkok. The meeting brought together representatives from 15 universities across 10 AUF members: Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Thailand.
As co-host, Thammasat University warmly welcomed all participants under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, together with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supreedee Rittironk, Vice Rector for International Affairs.
The forum program featured keynote speakers and panel discussions. Opening the event were welcome remarks by Prof. Supasawad Chardchawarn and Dr. Honglim Ryu, President of Seoul National University, followed by congratulatory remarks delivered by H.E. Mr. Park Yongmin, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Thailand.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Luksmon Smansin, Director of the International Affairs Division, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, offering national-level perspectives on higher education development and international cooperation.
Panel Discussions
The forum featured three panel discussions, moderated by Thammasat University executives, focusing on key issues shaping contemporary higher education:
- Digital Transformation and AI in Higher Education Learning
- Graduate Employability, Internships, and Professional training
- Strategies for the Internationalization of Universities:Fostering Global Collaboration.
These discussions generated lively exchanges and practical insights among university leaders and representatives.
AUF Summit and Campus Visit
The final session of the forum was the AUF summit, attended by university presidents, vice presidents, and senior administrators. Other participants were guided on a tour of key facilities on the Tha-Prachan campus, with highlights including the underground library and Pridi Banomyong Plaza.
Cultural tours
On 13 December, AUF members participated in a cultural excursion to explore Thailand’’s rich heritage. The guided visits included Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya, renowned for the iconic Buddha’s head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Ratchaburana, a landmark temple in Ayutthaya famous for its central prang and three-level crypt where historical treasures were discovered. The cultural program was facilitated by the Thammasat OIA team, providing participants with a meaningful cultural experience alongside academic exchange.
