The ever-turning wheel of academia has found itself in the midst of a rather peculiar saga, as the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) stands poised to unsheath legal swords against Siam University. All this swirls around an enigmatic figure—a Chinese executive—embroiled in organizing a volunteer police training program exclusively tailored for Chinese nationals. Surprisingly, this entire affair unspooled seemingly without the university’s nod of approval.
Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi, with the resolute determination of a seasoned warrior, took the stage on a bustling Tuesday, insisting that the university had no inkling of the clandestine course using its distinguished emblem. This unauthorized usage, a clear breach of the Private Higher Education Institutions Act BE 2546 (2003), came to prominence when the narrative unfolded that Chinese participants had been tagged a hefty 38,000 baht each for the privilege of attendance.
The plot further thickened last week, casting a spotlight on more than 20 eager participants who had taken the controversial plunge. In an adamant denial, the university distanced itself, dismissing any involvement, labeling it a rogue act perpetrated by a solo performer.
Minister Isarabhakdi urged the university to act with celerity, positing that this quagmire demanded immediate resolution. “We linger in anticipation for a resolute reply,” she affirmed, subtly invoking the clock. According to the minister, the university ought to unfurl a complaint without delay. A mere 24 to 48 hours should suffice, as any dithering seemed unwarranted to her watchful eye.
In what seemed like a post-Holiday hangover, the university divulged to the ministry that this was no habitual happening but a standalone caper. Simultaneously, whispers of an impending disciplinary committee swirled through the corridors, poised to scrutinize the Chinese executive’s bewildering dance. The findings might swing an array of punitive opportunities—from solemn warnings to salary swaps, and potentially, a parting of ways altogether.
Amidst this maelstrom, Siam University President Pornchai Mongkhonvanit stood firm, asserting the university’s role as deceived bystander in this theatrical affair, where no applause was ever anticipated.
With the agility of the wind, upon unmasking the rumor that the enigmatic seminar had spun its yarn from December 25 to December 27, the university assembled a rapid-response fact-finding team on January 3. Casting light upon their inquiry two days later, they sketched the narrative of an external orchestrator, well-versed with high-placed connections, including revered officers from the Metropolitan Police Bureau 3.
The spotlight beamed upon Li Zhang, the university’s Assistant to the President for International Activities. Perplexingly, he became the nexus of the operation. Yet, with the imperturbability of a zen master, he attested the project never sailed under the university’s banner. His apparent guerrilla tactics involved forging documents supposedly from Siam University—documents which, if authentic, should have one whooped with the presidential seal.
Despite this intriguing web of events, no lucre streamed to the university’s coffers from this impromptu boot camp. The scenario reads like a mystery novel where the protagonist never intended to play detective. In such gripping tales of intrigue and duplicity, Siam University now stands, straddling the precipice of legal storms and intellectual integrity, waiting for the next page to turn in this bewildering anthology of institutional riddles.
This whole situation seems shady. How can a university not know about a program using their name?
Sometimes large institutions have so many departments people don’t communicate well. Still, someone should be held accountable.
Agreed, but this sounds more like someone trying to make a quick buck. The university should tighten its controls.
Universities have become too bureaucratic. It’s about time they focus more on governance.
This is concerning for international students. How can they trust institutions abroad if such incidents occur?
Exactly! This damages the reputation of educational systems worldwide.
Absolutely. Transparency and accountability are crucial in education more than anywhere else.
I think this might be blown out of proportion. Could just be a misunderstanding.
A misunderstanding? If money was involved, it’s serious. We need the whole truth.
You’re right. We should wait for the investigation to conclude before drawing conclusions.
China influencing education systems is becoming a trend. Doesn’t surprise me one bit.
Well, historically, cultures have always influenced each other. Perhaps this is a modern extension of that.
Influence is different from manipulation. We must be vigilant about motives.
Why isn’t Li Zhang facing any immediate consequences for his actions?
We don’t know if he is guilty yet. Everyone deserves due process.
True, but with such high stakes, I’d expect a suspension at least until this is resolved.
This issue highlights the need for stricter checks on activities using institutional names.
For sure. Institutions must protect their brand and quality of education.
The whole affair sounds like an opportunity for some introspection by the university. They need to set their house in order.
What about the people who paid? Will they get refunds? So unfair!
I’d hope so. Couldn’t they sue if they don’t get their money back?
Sounds like an interesting drama! They should turn this into a movie.
Where did the 38,000 baht per person go if not to the university?
That’s the million-dollar question. Follow the money, and we’ll find answers.
I’d hate to be a student there right now. Such a mess.
True, but sometimes in chaos comes clarity. Maybe they’ll learn and improve their system.
This makes it hard for legitimate programs to be trusted amidst such scandals.
It’s unfortunate, but scandals often overshadow good work done by these institutions.
I’m baffled by the university’s lack of oversight. Top-tier institutions wouldn’t let this happen.
Every institution, no matter how prestigious, has its weak moments. It’s how they handle it that counts.
The credibility of Siam University is at stake. They need to issue their findings promptly.
Li Zhang needs to be questioned thoroughly. Something doesn’t add up.
Exactly! Full accountability should be demanded.