In a world that seems to juggle an array of complications – from the intricate dance of geopolitics to the unforeseen challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, social turmoil, the gradual depletion of natural resources, the rapid surge in technological advancements, and the inevitable shift towards a digital existence – finding a silver lining can often feel akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. However, amidst this chaotic tapestry of global predicaments, a beacon of collaborative hope has emerged through the partnership between Thailand and the UK, signifying a concerted effort to leverage technology and innovation in surmounting these pervasive challenges.
“The contemporary landscape, rife with its multifaceted obstacles, necessitates a pivot towards technology and innovation. This pivot isn’t merely about staying afloat; it’s about harnessing the power of innovation to tackle specific issues facing nations on a granular level,” remarked Sirirurg Songsivilai, the esteemed chairperson of the National Commission on Science, Research and Innovation, shedding light on this critical alliance at a juncture when it’s needed the most.
A Chronicle of Collaborative Excellence
Dipping into the annals of history, the relationship between Thailand and the UK in the realms of science, research, and innovation stretches over six decades – a testament to a longstanding camaraderie rooted in mutual advancement and learning. This partnership has seen a steady flow of Thai researchers soaking in knowledge in the UK, only to return and sow the seeds of collaborative projects with British organizations and minds. These endeavours haven’t been for naught; they’ve been strategic, targeting national and international developmental quandaries.
The creation of the Newton Fund in 2014, with a hefty cheque of £46 million (approximately 2.09 billion baht) from the UK’s coffers, marked a significant milestone in this collaborative journey. This investment catalyzed advancements in science and technology that benefitted both nations, enhancing research capabilities of over 1,700 personnel, spearheading more than 115 landmark projects across various sectors including health, agriculture, energy, and more, and shaping pivotal science and technology policies.
In an exciting development, Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) and the British Embassy in Thailand recently unfurled yet another collaborative venture aimed at bolstering capabilities and fostering knowledge exchange between the two countries. This initiative, powered by the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), paves the ways for enhanced cooperation through partnerships in both the UK and Thailand.
Fuelled by a generous budget of £319 million (around 14.52 billion baht) for 2022 to 2025 from the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the ISPF invites UK researchers to collaborate with global partners under four pivotal themes: Resilient Planet, Transformative Technologies, Healthy People, Animals and Plants, and Tomorrow’s Talent. “The resounding success of past collaborations, coupled with the launch of ISPF, is poised to propel Thai researchers to new heights, participating in these funds,” noted Mark Gooding, UK ambassador to Thailand, emphasizing the potential of this new step.
Navigating Towards a Brighter Future
With an eye on the horizon, Thailand is charting a course for 2023-2027, aimed at harnessing science, research, and innovation (SRI) to navigate the global challenges and steer towards a developed and future-ready nation. This ambitious plan is structured around four strategic pillars: propelling economic development through creativity and innovation; fostering a sustainable society resilient to global shifts; leading the charge in cutting-edge science, technology, and innovation; and nurturing human resources and scientific institutions for a quantum leap in progress.
“This collaboration under the ISPF banner is a clarion call for robust partnership, capacity building, and unbridled knowledge exchange between Thailand and the UK,” conveyed Patamawadee Pochanukul, president of TSRI, echoing the sentiments of a commitment to mutual growth and innovation. In this intricate web of global complexity, the alliance between Thailand and the UK stands as a testament to the unyielding power of collaboration in paving the way towards a brighter, more resilient future for both nations and beyond.
This collaboration seems like a huge leap forward for both countries, but I’m curious how this will practically affect the smaller communities in Thailand. Often, these grand initiatives benefit the urban and already well-off areas more.
That’s a valid point. I’ve seen similar schemes where the rural areas are left out. However, it’s mentioned that agriculture is one of the sectors that benefited. Maybe, there’s hope for widespread benefits.
Agreed, the key is ensuring that these programs have mechanisms for equitable distribution. Only then can we claim success beyond the urban centers.
I think it’s a bit cynical to assume it won’t help the broader population. Investment in science and tech often has a trickle-down effect that can lift entire economies.
I’m particularly excited about the ‘Resilient Planet’ theme. It’s high time global collaborations focused on sustainability and environmental resilience. Could be a game-changer if implemented right.
While I share your enthusiasm, history has shown that a lot of these initiatives sound great on paper but fall short in execution. I hope this time it’s different.
Couldn’t agree more! This could pave the way for innovative environmental solutions. The UK has been at the forefront of green tech, so it’s promising.
Exactly! If we want to make a dent in the climate crisis, these are the kinds of international partnerships we need. Let’s stay optimistic and watch how this unfolds.
The potential for ‘Transformative Technologies’ is massive. But, will there be an equitable sharing of knowledge, or will this widen the gap between the countries even more?
Good point. The key will be in the details of how this partnership is structured. Ensuring equitable contribution and sharing of benefits is crucial for its long-term success.
Six decades of partnership is nothing to scoff at. It’s a testament to the enduring relationship between Thailand and the UK, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
While partnerships like these are the need of the hour, I wonder about the actual on-ground impact. Frequently, such initiatives are top-heavy and lack grassroots integration.
Agreed, the devil is always in the details. It’s one thing to announce a partnership; quite another to ensure the benefits actually reach those in need at the grassroots level.
It’s initiatives like these that make me optimistic about the future. Global challenges require global solutions, and the collaboration on innovation is a step in the right direction.
All this talk about leveraging technology for good, but technology also displaces jobs and widens the economic gap. Not everyone benefits from these advancements.
While some displacement is inevitable, technology also creates new opportunities and innovations that can lead to different kinds of jobs. Adaptation is key.
Easy to say ‘adaptation is key’ when you’re not the one losing your job to a bot. The so-called new opportunities often require skills the displaced workers don’t have.