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Walailak University’s Professional Culinary Arts Program (Pro Chef) is advancing its internationalization efforts by sending students abroad to gain hands-on experience and professional culinary training in Taiwan. The program aims to expose students to global food innovation through learning opportunities with Michelin-starred chefs while also strengthening their Chinese language skills.

On May 20, 2026, Associate Professor Dr. Pimlapas Pongsakornrungsilp, Dean of the School of Management at Walailak University, revealed that the School has sent 28 students and two faculty members from the Pro Chef Program to participate in an academic exchange and professional training program at Hungkuang University from May 17–28, 2026.

The program is designed to provide students with opportunities to learn culinary innovation from Michelin-starred chefs while enhancing their Chinese language proficiency in preparation for careers in the international tourism and hospitality industry.



Associate Professor Dr. Pimlapas explained that Taiwan was selected as the destination because of its strong reputation in the food, tourism, and hospitality industries, particularly its distinctive strengths in culinary innovation and international environment. She emphasized that the program is not only about teaching students “how to cook,” but also about cultivating creativity and encouraging them to apply innovation in menu design while adapting to the rapidly changing global landscape.

“The School of Management is committed to providing students with real-world experiences through international student mobility programs, which serve as an important mechanism for developing professional skills,” said Associate Professor Dr. Pimlapas.

"One of the highlights of this program is the opportunity for students to learn and practice alongside Michelin-starred professional chefs in modern kitchen laboratories equipped with advanced technology. This experience will enable them to further develop classroom knowledge and apply it professionally at the international level.”



Mr. Chanachai Pusud, a student representative participating in the program, shared his excitement about the opportunity.

“I feel proud to be a representative participating in this study and training program in Taiwan. The experience has allowed me to learn international kitchen management techniques, plating artistry, and methods for maximizing the value of ingredients. Working in a real professional kitchen environment has made me realize that precision, speed, and teamwork are essential. This experience has not only strengthened my skills and confidence but also broadened my perspective and brought me closer to my dream of becoming a professional chef,” he said.

Another student representative, Ms. Nalisa Chotthong, added that the exchange program in Taiwan is a valuable opportunity to learn Chinese culinary techniques directly from expert chefs.

“What impressed me the most was seeing such a well-organized and fast-paced working environment, which is different from classroom-based learning. This experience has given me a clearer direction for improving myself and further developing my professional career in the future,” she said.