Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to science and technology at the STS Forum 2024 in Kyoto, Japan. Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), headed the Thai delegation to the event, which was attended by key executives, researchers, and educators from Thailand's leading research institutions.
The meeting has been recognized to be the largest in the world forum for science and technology, gathering more than 1,000 participants, including ministers, prominent science leaders, executives from public and private sectors, and emerging experts and youth leaders.
At the Opening Plenary Session, Ms. Supamas said, "The World in 2024, What do we need from S&T?" She emphasized that the urgent causes of problems in the way of achieving SDGs are resource scarcity, degradation of environment, and loss of biodiversity. Her final call upon collaboration is all governments, international organizations, private sectors, and educational institutions coming together to collaborate and remove these challenges.
This is where Thailand, under the new government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is speeding up advancements in science and technology through MHESI's effort in laying an emphasis on the potential of digital economy, green technologies, and future mobility solutions through research and innovation.
Other than setting a 'climate agenda', Minister Supamas has also spoken about "how we must construct Artificial Intelligence to feed our education systems. With climate change upon us, it is but a surprise if typhoons and flood-ridden events may hit anywhere in Asia. In this context, Thailand plans to become carbon-neutral by 2050 and already sets its target at net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for 2065; meanwhile, it aspires to make STEM education better for future generations.
"International collaboration is crucial for sharing knowledge at all levels. It will actually help us build a world that is stable and balanced with innovations", said Ms. Supamas.
The Minister also officiated the "Science and Technology for Future Transition" meeting chaired by the National Research Council of Thailand. Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI, and Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of NRCT, delivered welcome remarks. The meeting also gave certificates of appreciation to five young leaders from NRCT.
