Strengthening Regional Ties: Chula President Collaborates with Cambodian Education Minister to Empower Youth through Integrated Knowledge

On January 17, 2025, Chulalongkorn University, a prominent institution in Thailand, reinforced its commitment to regional education by meeting with Cambodian officials. The delegation, led by President Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, visited His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, who is Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports. Notably, Dr. Naron is also a proud alumnus of Chulalongkorn University’s doctoral program in Education Management.

This meeting aimed to enhance cooperation between the two institutions and strengthen educational links between Thailand and Cambodia. They discussed the importance of education in improving quality of life and explored ways to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teaching to make education more accessible and effective for youth in the region. This initiative reflects Chulalongkorn University’s dedication to educational innovation and collaboration within ASEAN.

The visit included a trip to the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC). Here, the group looked into how engineering and technology can tackle environmental issues and advance solar energy and service robots. Professor Dr. Po Kimtho, an alumnus of Chulalongkorn, helped facilitate this exploration.

Princess Pongmonirath Devi, an alumnus from Chulalongkorn’s Faculty of Communication Arts, was also present during the visit. She shared her experiences at the university and discussed potential academic and cultural partnerships between Chulalongkorn and Cambodian institutions.

Dr. Hang Chuon Naron has played a key role in reforming Cambodia’s education system, applying the knowledge he gained at Chulalongkorn to lead improvements in the country’s educational landscape. This ongoing relationship has fostered many influential figures in education and government.

During the meeting, ten Cambodian alumni from Chulalongkorn also participated, highlighting the university’s popularity among Cambodian students. Many of these former students are now making significant contributions in their respective fields.

There are currently 11 Cambodian nationals pursuing studies and research at Chulalongkorn University, including students in the faculties of Dentistry, Science, and Nursing. This presence underlines the deepening ties and exchanges between the two nations.

Chulalongkorn University continues to excel academically. It ranks among the world’s top universities for employment outcomes and is recognized as the best university in Thailand for the 15th consecutive year, according to the QS World University Rankings 2024.