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On 28 June 2023, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), in collaboration with National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), Walailak University, and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, organized the Regional Research Expo 2023 which takes place at Walailak University from 28-30 June. The expo is held under the theme Research and Innovation for Sustainable Improvement of Quality of Life - Southern Model, aimed to foster local research and innovation in the Southern region.

The event was inaugurated by Adjunct Professor Dr. Anek Laothamatas, the Minister of MHESI, who delivered a special lecture on Studying the Cultural Heritage of Southeast Asia and Regional Development in the Digital Era. Attendees included Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, Acting President of Walailak University; Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Director of NRCT; Mr. Sompong Makamnee, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat; along with distinguished guests, researchers, students, and media representatives. 



Adjunct Professor Dr. Anek Laothamatas emphasized that the primary objective of this event was to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from research, technology, and innovation into tangible benefits for the wider community. It aimed to inspire and invigorate educators, research institutions from both the public and private sectors, students, and the general public to apply research and innovation in the development and creation of high-quality research outcomes, inventions, technologies, and innovations that align with the country's needs. 

"We are a nation of science and technology. The advancement of research will elevate the country's scientific progress. Thailand's scientific achievements are highly regarded and on par with those of ASEAN countries. This extends to the fields of humanities, social sciences, and the study of Southeast Asia's cultural heritage, which can contribute to the development of southern region as a cradle of Thai culture," said Adjunct Professor Dr. Anek.



Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong stated that Walailak University, as the host of Regional Research Expo 2023, is committed to accelerating the utilization of knowledge from research, technology, and innovation for the benefit of the wider community. The university aims to enhance the quality of life and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing research, inventions, and innovations that align with the country's needs and serve as a mechanism to drive research and innovation, contributing to the improvement of people's quality of life and the overall well-being of the general public.

"Driving research activities is considered a crucial mission for Walailak University. The university emphasizes the importance of both basic research and research for community economic development. In the past year, Walailak University has received global recognition from Times Higher Education, which reaffirms its commitment to aligning with the policies of MHESI and the government, and continuously striving for the benefit of the community, local areas, and the country," Professor Sombat said.



Dr. Wiparat De-ong mentioned that the Regional Research Expo was first initiated in 2013 in the northeastern region and later expanded to the northern and southern regions. This expansion aims to broaden the utilization of research outcomes in various regions, providing opportunities for researchers to present their work on a national level. The 12th regional research expo is organized under the theme Research and Innovation for Sustainable Improvement of Quality of Life - Southern Model, aiming to promote advancements in research, technology, and innovation and facilitate effective presentation opportunities in this significant area. The expo will feature research works, products, and inventions from researchers and inventors representing both the public and private sectors. This event presents a valuable opportunity to further utilize research outcomes, encourage collaboration within a network-oriented approach, and align with the policies of MHESI, thereby generating positive prospects through research and innovation. 

The Regional Research Expo 2023 has a wide array of activities, including an exhibition showcasing projects that commemorate the benevolence of His Majesty, a display of research works and innovations supported by NRCT, presentations of research works and innovations by high school students, exhibitions by regional research network agencies, a showcase of the Southern Science Park, a community research center highlighting the distinct identity of the southern region, booths featuring community food products, an innovative business concept competition focusing on spatial development in the southern region, a highlight stage activity, and conferences and discussions covering 13 topics over the three-day event.