President and CEO Ohtake visits Thailand to strengthen Science Tokyo partnerships

On April 10-12, 2025, President and CEO Naoto Ohtake led a delegation to Bangkok to strengthen Science Tokyo’s partnerships in Thailand. The delegation included Dr. Jun-ichi Takada, executive vice president for global affairs, Dr. Kenji Fueki, dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, and three administrative staff members.

Both the former Tokyo Tech and former TMDU shared a rich legacy of collaboration with Thai universities and research institutions, making Thailand one of Science Tokyo’s most important partner countries. The Institute’s partnerships span a broad spectrum of initiatives, including joint research projects, academic and joint degree programs, as well as faculty and student exchange activities. To facilitate these initiatives, Science Tokyo maintains a collaboration center at Chulalongkorn University, an office at Mahidol University, and the ANNEX Bangkok staffed by local personnel at the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). The university also boasts a strong alumni network across the country.

First, at Chulalongkorn University, President Ohtake’s delegation met with President Wilert Puriwat, Vice Presidents Pornanong Aramwit and Palanee Ammaranond, Prof. Pornchai Jansisyanont, dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, and representatives from the faculty of dentistry. Discussions centered on advancing collaborative research in key areas such as innovation in health sciences, aging society, artificial intelligence, and the potential for collaboration in social enterprise.

The next stop was NSTDA, where President Ohtake was warmly welcomed by President Sukit Limpijumnong, a longtime friend of Science Tokyo. The meeting also included Executive Vice President Somboon Sahasithiwat and Vice President Patchralita Chatwalitpong. The parties reflected on the successes of the TAIST program and other joint activities, and explored opportunities to deepen research collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, carbon neutrality, disaster resilience, and addressing social issues through the practical application of science and technology. Both sides expressed a strong desire to go beyond existing programs and develop broader partnerships that address global challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Next, the delegation met with Director Krithpaka Boonfueng and other representatives from the National Innovation Agency (NIA). Discussions focused on the startup ecosystems in both countries and the potential for Science Tokyo startups to establish a presence in Thailand.

The final visit took place at the Embassy of Japan in Thailand, where President Ohtake met with Ambassador Masato Otaka and other officials to share updates on student exchange initiatives and discuss strategies to further promote Science Tokyo programs among Thai high school students. The meeting included a wide-ranging exchange of views on topics such as disaster preparedness and infrastructure challenges in Thailand, the country’s economic situation, and career development for international students.

President Ohtake also took the opportunity to reconnect with members of the vibrant Science Tokyo alumni community in Bangkok. Around 20 alumni - an even mix of graduates from former TMDU and Tokyo Tech - gathered to reminisce about their student days, build new connections, and reflect on the exciting opportunities emerging from the university merger.

This visit not only reaffirmed the strong foundation of trust and mutual respect between Science Tokyo and its Thai partners, but also opened new avenues for future collaboration in education, research, innovation and solving social challenges. As Science Tokyo continues to expand its global network, its commitment to solving shared societal challenges through cross-border partnerships remains unwavering. The institute looks forward to deepening its engagement with Thailand and building a future where science, innovation, and human connection know no borders.

• Chulalongkorn University
• National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
• National Innovation Agency (NIA)
• Overseas bases
• Thai Kuramae-kai