Yotchanan Opens 2026 Chiang Mai University Executive Forum, Advancing 'Beyond CMU' Initiative
Deputy PM Yotchanan urged higher education institutions to accelerate research commercialization and cross-sector collaboration at Chiang Mai University's executive forum, emphasizing the need to transform universities into innovation drive
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Dr. Yotchanan Vongswasdi delivered a keynote address on "Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Ministry Policies" at the 2026 Chiang Mai University Executive Seminar held May 23-24 at the university's Academic Services Office. The event was attended by Chiang Mai University Rector Prof. Dr. Pongrak Sribanditmongkol and Council Chair Prof. Dr. Surakiat Satiarthai, along with other ministry officials.
Yotchanan emphasized that advancing the nation requires integrated cross-sector collaboration to create a "new economic engine." He characterized the ministry as a "mini Cabinet for Science" capable of establishing sandbox spaces to pilot solutions to national challenges across economics, security, foreign affairs, disaster management, and public administration. He highlighted the need to accelerate research and innovation commercialization to propel Thailand toward sustainable high-income status.
The deputy PM commended Chiang Mai University's strong capabilities in innovation, startup incubation, and technology development for society through its Science and Technology Park, which plays a crucial role in building the nation's innovation-based economy.
Council Chair Prof. Dr. Surakiat Satiarthai delivered remarks on "Changing Global Geopolitics and Its Impact on Universities," noting that geopolitical crises now directly affect higher education institutions as global conditions shift simultaneously across energy, trade, finance, technology, education, and security.
Universities must evolve from traditional "knowledge producers" to become strategic mechanisms for anticipating the future, driving innovation, supporting societal adaptation, and co-designing policies to address global challenges, he stated.
Chiang Mai University Rector Prof. Dr. Pongrak Sribanditmongkol presented a draft framework for the university's 14th development plan (2028-2032), maintaining the vision of "a leading university socially responsible for sustainable development through innovation." The plan includes stakeholder consultation to align the university's direction with future national and societal needs.
