Thailand’s unwavering dedication to propelling science and technology onto the global stage radiated at the STS Forum 2024 in Kyoto, Japan. Spearheading this prestigious expedition was Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI) of Thailand. With her was a formidable entourage of executives, researchers, and academics from Thailand’s premier research and higher education institutions under MHESI’s aegis. This illustrious gathering, esteemed as the grandest science and technology forum on the planet, provides a dynamic arena where leaders across various spheres converge to deliberate the intricate interplay of science, technology, and society. Drawing over a thousand participants, the forum boasted a diverse array of attendees, including ministers, influential science and technology titans, and executives from both the public and private sectors globally, alongside seasoned experts and promising young leaders.
Taking center stage at the Opening Plenary Session, Ms. Supamas joined a distinguished panel featuring ministers and leaders of agencies to explore a pressing question: “The World in 2024 — What do we need from S&T?” Ms. Supamas eloquently delved into the pressing issues the world faces, including natural resource constraints, environmental predicaments, and a concerning dip in biodiversity, all of which are entangled with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She championed the indispensable need for synergy between governments, international bodies, the private sector, educational institutions, and innovative minds. Thailand’s newly minted government, helmed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is zealously promoting science and technology, with MHESI serving as a linchpin in advancing the nation’s digital economy, cultivating green technology, and ushering in cutting-edge future vehicles through relentless research and innovation.
The Minister’s address resonated with a keen focus on the burgeoning realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its transformative potential in education, even as Thailand braces to confront severe global challenges like the spiraling climate crisis—a harbinger of typhoons and floods ravaging many parts of Asia. Stepping up to the plate, Thailand has vowed to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and to attain net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. Underscoring her country’s commitment, Ms. Supamas stated that Thailand’s embrace of STEM education is paving a path for the next generation, arming them with the tools to vanquish corning challenges.
“In my view, international collaboration is paramount,” Ms. Supamas asserted, “to foster knowledge exchange at national, regional, and global tiers, enabling us to sculpt a sustainable and balanced future through innovation.” Her resounding remarks punctuated the immense potential that lies in united endeavors.
Further cementing Thailand’s stature in this domain, Minister Supamas graced the “Science and Technology for Future Transition” assembly hosted by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) with an insightful opening speech during the STS Forum 2024. Accompanying her were Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Office of MHESI, and Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of NRCT, who both delivered cordial welcome remarks. In a poignant moment of recognition, five talented young leaders from NRCT were honored with certificates of recognition, a testament to the vibrant future of science and technology leadership in Thailand.
I think it’s great that Thailand is pushing for science and tech advancements, but are they doing enough to combat the climate crisis?
Agreed, Joe. Climate change is a huge issue, but maybe their focus on AI and green tech is a step in the right direction.
AI advancements can bring efficiency, but let’s not forget the ethical concerns surrounding AI development too.
True, Larry. Balancing innovation with ethical implications is tricky but crucial.
Thailand aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 is ambitious. Are they really equipped to achieve it, though?
As ambitious as it is, every nation should aim high! With collaborative efforts, it’s possible.
You’re right, Alexis. It requires a global effort, but nations also have to ensure realistic plans.
Promoting STEM education sounds like a good move. Hope it really empowers the next generation.
STEM is great, but they should also focus on arts and humanities for a well-rounded education.
STEAM includes arts in STEM, which promotes creativity in technology too!
True, Ella and Tom. We need all disciplines working together.
How about discussing the community impacts of these advancements in science and tech?
International collaboration can be tough. How will Thailand ensure they aren’t left out of important conversations?
Good question, Meghan. They need strong alliances and active participation in global forums.
Does anyone else think these forums are just talks with no real action?
Many people do agree with that sentiment, Rex. But these gatherings can still lay groundwork for future actions.
I feel that transparency and follow-up are necessary for any real progress to be tracked.
Should developing nations like Thailand prioritize technology when many rural areas still lack basic needs?
Balancing tech advancements with improving basic infrastructure could ensure comprehensive growth.
Exactly, maintaining balance is key. Otherwise, it leads to uneven development.
Maybe the world will finally recognize Thailand’s potential in academia and research through such initiatives.
What’s going on with everyone using AI? Seems like it’s being hyped too much?
Will this push in S&T only benefit big corporations, or will small businesses and local communities see benefits too?
An excellent question. Ideally, policies should trickle benefits down to the grassroots level as well.
If achieved, this would be a big step for Thailand. It sets an example for other countries too.
All this talk about innovation is great, but don’t we need more focus on current issues first?
True, Nikhil. Current issues do need attention, but innovation can solve existing problems too.