20–25 November 2025 – Professor Dr. Wanchai Yodsudjai, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, together with the executive team of Kasetsart University, participated in the Belt and Road International Symposium for Materials Genome Engineering & Intelligent Science, held from 20–25 November 2025 in Xi’an, People’s Republic of China. The symposium was hosted by the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB), which also provided support for travel expenses, accommodation, and conference registration for the KU executive delegation.
During the conference, Associate Professor Dr. Worapong Sawangsri, a faculty member of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, presented his research entitled:
“Evaluation of Cell Viability and Machining Performance of Biocompatible ZrO₂ and SS316L Tools in Bone Milling Applications.”
Following the conference, the KU executive delegation traveled to Beijing to engage in discussions with USTB administrators to strengthen international collaboration and expand academic opportunities for Thai students and staff. These discussions led to significant progress in several key areas, including curriculum development, research collaboration, and student development, as outlined below:
- Establishment of Dual Degree Programs (2+2 Model)
In-depth discussions were held to develop joint degree programs in Materials Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, and related engineering fields. Preliminary frameworks were established for credit transfer, student recruitment, faculty exchange, and summer programs. USTB also expressed its readiness to support Virtual Laboratories, enabling KU engineering students to study through both online and onsite modes with Chinese experts.
- Promotion of Individual Research Collaboration
Opportunities will be created for KU faculty members and researchers to collaborate individually with USTB researchers. This may include online matchmaking seminars for researchers with shared interests and the joint development of research proposals to seek collaborative funding in the future.
- Expansion of Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Discussions were held with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at USTB to promote collaboration in Engineering & Society, technology policy, sustainability, culture, and student exchange. Plans include inviting USTB representatives to visit the Faculty of Engineering, KU, to develop multidisciplinary research projects in areas such as Sustainability and Smart City development.
- Enhancement of Student and Staff Capacity and International Visibility
Expanded opportunities will be provided for students to participate in internships and exchange programs at leading USTB laboratories. Faculty members from both universities will be supported through Visiting Professor and Short-Term Faculty Mobility programs. USTB has officially recognized Kasetsart University as a University-Level Strategic Partner and expressed strong commitment to further strengthening collaboration in human resources and research.
This visit to the People’s Republic of China marks a significant step in fostering international cooperation aimed at enhancing education, advancing research, and creating new opportunities for students and faculty of Kasetsart University in the future.
