One of Thailand’s most acclaimed scholars has brought forth a compelling argument: the government should amp up its financial support for academic research. This, according to Prof. Phadungsak Rattanadecho, is the missing piece that could propel the nation into the realm of groundbreaking innovations and cutting-edge technologies. His thoughtful insights were shared during an engrossing seminar co-hosted by Thammasat University and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, held at the lively Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
Prof. Phadungsak, who wears many prestigious hats as a senior research scholar at the Thailand Research Fund and the director of the Centre of Excellence in Electromagnetic Energy Utilisation in Engineering at Thammasat University, delved deep into Thailand’s hurdles in technological advancement. He painted a clear picture: the nation is teetering on the brink of innovation but lacks the robust foundation of high-quality research to push it over the edge.
During this riveting seminar, Thailand’s top research luminaries showcased their academic endeavors and engaged in animated discussions about the limitations hampering research progress. Prof. Phadungsak brought a standout study to the table: his medical engineering research on the application of electromagnetic waves for the localized treatment of cancer. This pioneering work aims to provide patients with an alternative to chemotherapy, sparing them from its often grueling side effects.
“Technological innovations are like fine wine, they mature over years of dedicated research,” Prof. Phadungsak eloquently remarked. He criticized the prevailing trend wherein basic academic research—the fertile ground from which innovations sprout—receives meager support. A staggering 80% of grants from the National Science Research and Innovation Fund are funneled towards immediate innovation development, leaving fundamental research in the shadows.
“This is shortsighted, considering that all game-changing innovations have their roots in fundamental research,” he stressed. Prof. Phadungsak made an eye-opening comparison with international standards: in many countries, state funding for universities primarily fuels research projects, while private enterprises take on the task of turning these research insights into marketable innovations.
The Thai scenario, he pointed out, is somewhat skewed. Here, university scholars are not just tasked with conducting academic research and developing theories; they also bear the weighty responsibility of generating innovative ideas and translating them into commercial products. This dual burden, he implied, is neither fair nor efficient.
“In an ideal world, academics should concentrate on foundational research,” he asserted. “All stakeholders—academia, industry, and government—should join forces to drive innovation.” His call to action was backed by a critique of the inadequate “single-year” research grants doled out in Thailand. Expecting stellar outcomes from a project constrained to just one year is, in his view, an unrealistic aspiration.
Prof. Phadungsak urged the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the Industry Ministry, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to create better support mechanisms for researchers. His sentiment was echoed by Prof. Dr. Kesara Na-Bangchang, director of graduate studies at Thammasat University’s Chulabhorn International College of Medicine. She highlighted another bottleneck: the painfully slow patent registration process bogged down by red tape at the Food and Drug Administration. This bureaucratic quagmire, she said, is stymying the progress of medical innovations.
In conclusion, their collective plea was clear: a paradigm shift in how Thailand funds and supports research is crucial for fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation. With enhanced financial backing, streamlined processes, and dedicated focus, Thailand could soon find itself not just participating but leading the world’s technological revolutions.
It’s about time someone addressed the funding issue in Thai academic research! Prof. Phadungsak hit the nail on the head. We need more government support to thrive.
Absolutely! Without proper funding, how can we expect our scholars to make groundbreaking discoveries? It’s a no-brainer.
But isn’t it also important that private companies invest in research? Government can’t do everything.
True, Andy T, but the government should lay the groundwork. Private investments will follow if there’s a strong foundation.
Funding alone won’t solve everything. We need a change in academic culture too. More funding won’t automatically mean better research.
You’re right, there’s also the issue of mentoring and research guidance, which is lacking in many universities.
Good mentoring comes from experienced, well-funded researchers. It’s a cycle, and funding is a critical starting point.
Interesting point about the skewed funding. In the US, universities get plenty of federal research grants, and look where it’s gotten them. Thailand should take notes!
Absolutely, but let’s not forget that U.S. universities also have enormous endowments. It’s not just government money.
Good point, Lara. But any funding is better than the current situation, right?
Focusing on groundbreaking innovations is great, but we should not ignore applied research that can immediately benefit our industries.
I feel for the researchers having to juggle pure academic research and product development. It’s too much for one person!
Exactly, Maria. Burnout is real, and expecting stellar results without adequate support is not fair.
If they can’t handle it, maybe they’re in the wrong field. Real innovation comes from hard work and multitasking.
Not everyone can do everything. Specialization fosters innovation. Expecting them to do it all is inefficient.
Electromagnetic waves for cancer treatment? That’s revolutionary! Funding this kind of research can change lives.
It’s promising, but these things take time. Immediate results shouldn’t be expected.
I completely agree that the university should focus on foundational research and let private enterprises handle the commercial aspects.
Agreed! Division of labor makes everyone more efficient and productive.
Single-year grants are ridiculous. Quality research takes years to produce tangible results.
100% Vincent. It’s like planting a tree and expecting fruits in a season.
While more funding sounds ideal, where’s that money supposed to come from? Tax hikes? Budget cuts elsewhere?
Good question, Larry. Maybe reallocating some existing budget might work. Priorities need to shift.
True, Anne. But it’s always easier said than done. There’s too much bureaucracy involved.
The patent registration bottleneck is a huge problem. It hampers progress and dissuades innovations.
Yet another layer of red tape stymieing creativity. We need a more agile system.
Let’s not bash the government entirely. They’ve made some strides, but clearly, more needs to be done.
Throwing money at a problem isn’t always the solution. We need to ensure it’s used effectively.
Exactly, Jason. There should be accountability and a clear plan on how the funds are utilized.
I find it inspiring that Prof. Phadungsak is advocating for change. True leaders push for better futures.