On Thursday, 14 May 2026, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sineewanlaya Wichit, Deputy Dean for International Relations, Networking Development and Student Affairs, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Mahidol University, participated in the “2026 Thailand-France International Collaboration: Franco-Thai Symposium on Higher Education, Research and Innovation” and the signing ceremony between Thai and French higher education institutions and organizations. The event was organized by the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), through the Division of International Affairs, in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Thailand, at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok. The opening ceremony was graciously presided over by H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimbœuf, Ambassador of France to Thailand, and H.E. Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.
The event was held as part of the celebrations marking the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Thailand and the French Republic. It aimed to strengthen strategic collaboration in higher education, science, research, and innovation, while also providing opportunities for institutions and organizations from both countries to exchange knowledge, establish collaborative networks, and further advance international academic and research cooperation.
On this occasion, Mahidol University, represented by Prof. Dr. Nopraenue Sajjarax Dhirathiti, Vice President for Global Partnerships and University Council, signed the “MU – IRD: General Agreement for Scientific and Technical Cooperation” with the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), France, represented by Mr. Philippe Charvis, IRD Deputy Director of Science. The agreement aims to promote academic and research collaboration and strengthen scientific and technological cooperation between the two institutions, marking another important step in expanding international academic collaboration networks.
