Jakarta:Yotchanan concluded the third "Research, Development, and Innovation Policy Manager Development Program," aiming to enhance the network within the research and development system to foster human capital development, drive policy, and boost national competitiveness.
Accourding to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), presided over the closing ceremony and certificate presentation for the program. The course is designed to develop personnel in research and innovation management within the RSI system, acting as a mechanism to connect policymakers and drive policy-focused research across various RSI agencies. The objective is to achieve tangible outcomes and create a broad impact. The event was attended by Dr. Sriyada Palimapan, Advisor to the Minister of MHESI; Professor Dr. Sompong Khlaynongsuang, Director of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA); Associate Professor Dr. Suwit Chaeteo, President of King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT); and the training participants.
Professor Dr. Yoschanan emphasized the importance of the training participants in drafting policies and steering their organizations' direction. He highlighted that amidst declining government budgets, policy work necessitates systems thinking, clear planning, and the integration of networks across the government, private sector, and researchers. This approach encourages diversity and creativity, converting limitations into new opportunities, particularly in linking value chains from grassroots to global corporations, thereby improving the country's competitiveness.
Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation noted that Thailand is at a pivotal point where new economic driving mechanisms are needed, alongside human capital development and a foundation in science and technology. He stressed the need to move away from relying on foreign technology imports and instead focus on domestic research and development. This includes enhancing personnel skills and collaborating with the private sector to innovate, which can save considerable resources and build genuine national strength.
Professor Dr. Yoschanan urged all trainees to leverage the knowledge and networking gained through the program to advance their work, becoming instrumental in driving impactful policies and leading Thailand towards a sustainable future.