March 25, 2024

Thailand’s Consul-General tours campus; explores collaboration opportunities

Visit explored potential collaboration between UOW and Thai universities

The University of Wollongong (UOW) was honoured to welcome Her Excellency Mrs. Hataya Khusakul, Consul-General of Thailand, on a visit to explore opportunities for collaboration and engagement between Thai universities and UOW.

Mrs Khusakul engaged in discussions with senior executives from UOW to gain insights into the university's programs and support services for a diverse range of its international students.

The discussions also focused on emerging trends in careers and courses offered by UOW, reflecting the institution's commitment to preparing students for the rapidly evolving global landscape.

UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia Davidson and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global Strategy) Professor Tony Travaglione welcomed Mrs Hataya and emphasised the significance of the visit and the potential for future collaborations with Thailand.

“We were delighted to welcome Her Excellency Mrs Hataya Khusakul and key members from the Thailand consulate to UOW,” Professor Davidson said.

“We very much look forward to exploring ways to strengthen ties between both countries through research and education partnerships.

_{UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia Davidson and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global Strategy) Professor Tony Travaglione with Her Excellency Mrs Hataya Khusakul}

One of the highlights of the visit was to understand the experiences and successes of Thai students studying at UOW, highlighting the university's welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. There are approximately 73 Thai students currently studying at UOW campuses, including undergraduate and postgraduate students.

UOW has proudly sustained robust partnerships with Thai higher education and research institutions, exemplifying our collaborative efforts with Mahidol University. These alliances have opened numerous opportunities in key fields such as public health, engineering, and nursing, reflecting our commitment to international cooperation and academic excellence.

The discussions touched upon the potential for future collaborations and partnerships between Thai universities and UOW.

Professor Travaglione said that Australia is one of the top three study destinations for Thai students studying overseas.

“The Consul-General’s visit underscores our shared commitment to building international partnerships and providing enriching experiences for students from Thailand and around the world,” Professor Travaglione said.

“It underscores the growing importance of international collaborations in higher education and the valuable contributions of Thai students to the vibrant academic community at UOW.

“UOW aims to further grow prospects of joint initiatives that would enhance academic exchanges, research collaborations, and student mobility between Thailand and Australia and contribute to address skill shortages in many service sectors identified by the Government of Thailand.”