Ministry of Higher Education Launches University Network for Local Community Development

On February 5th, at Sakonnakhon Rajabhat University, Dr. Phansawaengsak Arunee, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, chaired the 'University Network Exchange and Learning Meeting' for local and community development groups. Dr. Phansawaengsak noted that Thai universities are currently facing major challenges including digital disruption and population structure crises. Declining student numbers are not just statistics, but warning signs about financial stability and institutional survival. Universities can no longer simply produce graduates traditionally, but must transform into lifelong learning centers and innovation hubs. The Deputy Permanent Secretary congratulated Sakonnakhon Rajabhat University for being selected as a model institution, proving that university spaces are not just classroom buildings, but 'living resources' that can create massive economic value while sustainably benefiting communities when managed effectively.