Deputy Prime Minister Yotchanan admitted feeling uneasy about the Uthenthawai matter, preparing for a discussion on 22 October to hear all sides, and confirmed that the original land will not be used commercially.
At 12:45 p.m. on 21 October 2026 at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotchanan Wongsawat gave an interview regarding the progress of relocating Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok Uthenthawai Campus from Chulalongkorn University’s grounds. He said there have been ongoing talks with the university and arrangements to allow students to conduct lab work on-site. Compensation and travel allowances will be provided during the transition period, with consultations involving faculty. Discussions will also be held with students and alumni to ensure a shared understanding. He affirmed they are doing their utmost.
When asked about using the university’s land, which belongs to Chulalongkorn University, for commercial purposes, Yotchanan said that discussions will be held to build understanding, but he assured that the land will not be used commercially. He stressed the need for cooperative efforts to resolve certain issues. Regarding clashes, he described them as unavoidable and said efforts are made to prevent easy confrontations between parties. He also committed to listening to all perspectives.
Yotchanan stated that regarding clarity on temporary learning locations, on 22 October 2026 at 3:30 p.m., the Ministry of Higher Education will hold a tripartite meeting involving the Metropolitan Police Command, Uthenthawai representatives, and Pathumwan Institute of Technology to provide updates. Preparations are complete, and the process is not improvised. The goal is to keep everything stable and clear, with the meeting receiving information before public announcements.
When asked whether talks involving only administration without student representatives would lead to mutual understanding, Yotchanan confirmed that student representatives are included in discussions. He has been open to dialogue and has spoken with student representatives. He clarified that he did not initiate this issue but has been involved in ongoing efforts. The focus is on clarifying the transition while maintaining educational quality, a task he personally oversees. He admitted feeling uneasy and concerned for all parties, emphasizing that communication must foster understanding and that any dissatisfaction will be addressed in the meeting on 22 October.
Asked whether dissatisfaction among parties might escalate the issue, Yotchanan said they strive to hear each side’s concerns and engage in the best possible dialogue, aiming to listen to each other as much as possible for the benefit of the country.