Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotsanan met with the Japanese Ambassador to advance cooperation in space, semiconductors, and synchrotron technology, alongside expanding the KOSEN program to drive the future New Growth Engine.
On 15 May 2026, reporters reported that on 14 May, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (HESRI), welcomed H.E. Mr. Otaka Masato, Japanese Ambassador to Thailand, to discuss ways to promote cooperation in STRI between Thailand and Japan. The focus was on key areas including implementing the KOSEN curriculum in Thailand, space technology, synchrotron light sources, and semiconductors. Attending were Dr. Sriyada Palimapan, Advisor to the Minister of HESRI; Mr. Chatrin Janhom, Secretary to the Minister; Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of HESRI; Mrs. Pennapa Kanchana, Inspector General of HESRI; Mrs. Watthana Sopisuksa-ard, Strategic and Higher Education Planning Advisor; and executives from related agencies: National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Office of the Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI), Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), held at the Phra Chom Klao Reception Room, 4th Floor, Office of the Permanent Secretary, HESRI Ministry (Yothi).
Mr. Yotsanan stated that the Thai government prioritizes promoting technology, innovation, and the development of advanced technology personnel to drive future industries and create new growth engines for the country. Japan is a key partner with expertise in many fields and potential to connect cooperation with Japanese industries to support Thailand's long-term capacity development. This meeting reflects the shared commitment of Thailand and Japan to elevate cooperation in STRI, especially in advanced technology development, scientific infrastructure, future industries, workforce development, and using science and technology to sustainably address social and environmental challenges.
Professor Dr. Supachai said that regarding workforce development, the KOSEN curriculum has been introduced at King Mongkut's University of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) and King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT). Thailand plans to expand in phase two by possibly launching additional programs at one or two other higher education institutions. HESRI has also discussed with Japan's National Institute of Technology (NIT) to push for recognition of the KOSEN curriculum in Thailand as equivalent to the accreditation in Japan.
Additionally, representatives from agencies under HESRI highlighted the long-standing cooperation between Thailand and Japan, including the use of radar technology (SAR) to enhance area monitoring, disaster management, and climate change studies; the development of Thailand's 4th generation synchrotron light source, a critical advanced scientific infrastructure for research and industry; semiconductor collaboration; and applying satellite technology combined with the Internet of Things (IoT) to develop disaster warning systems.
H.E. Mr. Otaka Masato said that Thailand and Japan share a good and long-standing relationship, especially in science, technology, and human resource development. Both countries can expand cooperation in space technology, a field where Japan excels and continues to advance. Thailand also views the space industry as an opportunity for future growth, particularly through satellite use and satellite data for agriculture, disaster monitoring and management, and socio-economic benefits.
Meanwhile, regarding progress on drafting a space cooperation memorandum between Thailand's HESRI Ministry and Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan has submitted the draft document for Thailand's consideration. The Permanent Secretary of HESRI reported that the ministry has reviewed the draft and is proceeding with steps to submit it for cabinet approval.