On May 24th , 2024, at the International Building Conference Room, the Faculty of Engineering at Kasetsart University hosted the signing ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Advanced Technology Upskill Development Program for Smart Manufacturing 4.0. The agreement was signed between Kasetsart University (KU) and Western Digital Storage Technologies (Thailand) (WD). Dr. Damrong Sripraram, Vice President for Administration, represented KU, while Mr. Philip Bernard, Senior Vice President of Western Digital Storage Technologies (Thailand) Ltd., represented Western Digital Executives from both organizations, and Mr. Suthiket Thatpitakkul, Deputy Secretary-General of the Board of Investment (BOI) was also in attendance.
This collaboration focuses on two key technological areas: Automation and Data Analytics. Engineers and employees from WD are the primary target group for participation in the program. Additionally, the curriculum is registered under KU’s Graduate Study for Potential Professionals (GSPP) program. The learning outcomes from this program provide participants with a sufficient knowledge base to further pursue a master’s degree, fostering collaboration between the education and industry sectors. This partnership is expected to lead to sustainable development and progress in Thailand’s industry, aligning with the goals of Industry 4.0.
Dr. Damrong Sripraram stated, “Kasetsart University highly appreciates the collaboration between the Faculty of Engineering and Western Digital Storage Technologies (Thailand). This joint effort aims to elevate the capabilities of Thailand’s smart manufacturing technology and develop personnel with advanced technological skills. These endeavors support the needs of Thailand’s industrial sector and drive the nation towards international recognition. Today’s MOU signing marks a significant step in integrating cutting-edge technology into education, benefiting both students and the industry, as well as the nation in the future.”
Mr. Philip Bernard remarked, “This project represents a crucial collaboration between Western Digital and Kasetsart University, focusing on the development and enhancement of human resources in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and preparing for the Fifth Industrial Revolution. Western Digital’s success in implementing Industry 4.0 technologies earned it the Lighthouse award from the World Economic Forum in 2021, highlighting the company’s role in transitioning from labor-intensive processes to innovative solutions. This integration of knowledge and experience from both industry and academia will significantly impact the economy and society in Thailand and globally. We thank the teams from Kasetsart University and Western Digital for making this project possible. We also extend our gratitude to the BOI for supporting the development of human resources in Thailand and providing the facilities for the project to proceed smoothly. We look forward to future creative and beneficial collaborations.”
Prof. Dr. Wanchai Yodsudjai, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, stated, “The Faculty of Engineering is ready and willing to support personnel, experts, and equipment for teaching and research to develop individuals with advanced technological skills. This collaboration with KU’s Graduate School will help the academic sector create high-quality curricula and produce graduates who meet the demands of the Industry 4.0 economy, promoting innovation and modern technological development. This, in turn, enhances Thailand’s economic growth and potential, positioning the country as a hub for innovation and technology in the region.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chowarit Mitsantisuk, Head of the Advanced Technology Upskill Development Program for Smart Manufacturing 4.0, commented, “The curriculum under this project is based on real research experience from the CMIT Robotic Laboratory in collaboration with Western Digital. It has been designed together with faculty from the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Science, and Faculty of Business Administration at Kasetsart University. The focus is on the development of robotics technology, automation systems, and data analytics for practical commercial applications. We thank the BOI for supporting this project, which we hope will provide a solid foundation for developing personnel capable of learning advanced technologies, enhancing competitiveness, and achieving sustainability in the future.”
Mr. Suthiket Thatpitakkul, Deputy Secretary-General of the Board of Investment (BOI), added, “BOI is fully committed to supporting sustainable development and strengthening the Thai economy. This project positively impacts economic development, raises education standards, fosters innovation, and promotes sustainable development in Thailand.”
This collaboration not only enhances Thailand’s educational system but also serves as an exemplary integration of academia and industry. It propels Thailand towards becoming a leader in innovation and technology, both regionally and globally.