Study visit to the Research Institute for Languages and Cultures of Asia, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

On September 14^th, the working group lead by Prof. Nguyen Van Khanh, Director of IPAM had a study visit to Research Institute for Languages and Cultures of Asia (RILCA), Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. This activity is under the framework of the state-level project: “Evaluation of results and proposal of solutions to enhance the implementation of Decree 115/2005/ND-CP on the autonomy and self-responsibility of public science and technology institutes” (hereby referred to as Project 115), managed by project manager – Assoc. Prof. Vu Cao Dam.   

Opening the working session, Prof. Nguyen Van Khanh and Assoc. Prof Khwanchit Sasiwongsaro, Director of RILCA introduced the model of operation, research and training functions of the two units. The initial information is the basis for the participants to discuss about the subject of Project 115 and propose collaborative research/training opportunities in the field of policy and management.

To assist the study of Project 115, representative of the Project’s Management Board raised issues around the implementation of the autonomy and self-responsibility of the research institutions in universities, in particular RILCA. Through the exchange, leaders and officials in charge of the departments and faculties had given more than 15 opinions on the conditions, advantages, disadvantages and typical characteristics of the mechanism of autonomy and self-responsibility of institutes being a part of University.

Picture 1. Officials from two units discussed about the autonomy and self-responsibility of science and technology institutes

Speaking at the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Morakot Meyer, Deputy Director in charge of foreign affairs emphasized: One of RILCA experiences in securing the research and development funds is investing in the human resources - RILCA has a qualified and dynamic team that always actively looks for projects and establishes an international research network. Besides, RILCA is also one of the pioneer units that study on language and culture policy in Thailand, implement domestic and international projects, as well as carry out MBA, PhD training programs in language and culture. Ms. Morakot also said that the Government of Thailand has made a series of aggressive moves to implement the national development strategy in Science and Technology such as: forming Silicon Valley, strengthen the role of enterprises in the STI system ... create favorable environment and conditions for science and technology organizations to establish their autonomy and self-responsibility in the context of international integration in science and technology nowadays.

Also during the meeting, IPAM's delegation had the opportunity to visit research centers of culture and language – where displays the products of research, the results of the projects implemented by RILCA since formation. The contributions of RILCA’s studies on ethnic minorities, culture, language, and impact of culture and language policies were highly appreciated by the United Nations and other international organizations.

Picture 2. A tour around the Institute and group photo with Former Director of RILCA

After the meeting, IPAM and RILCA had positive exchange of ideas about future cooperation. It is expected that the two units will deploy a number of studies on the opportunities and challenges of science and technology organizations in Asian region in implementing autonomy and self-responsibility; besides, organize seminars on policy and management, particularly in association with culture and language issues of ethnic minorities - from the experiences of Vietnam and Thailand.

In addition to assist the research of Project 115, this study visit also has a significant meaning of strengthen the international cooperative activities of the Institute of Policy and Management with other Asian countries in the near future.