[Bangkok, Thailand] – The Faculty of Engineering at Kasetsart University recently celebrated the successful conclusion of the international short course, “Nature-based Solutions for Disaster Risk Reduction in Southeast Asia” (NbS for DRR).
Bridging Global Expertise with Local Wisdom
With the support of the Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, the program was organized by Associate Professor Dr. Apiniti Jotisankasa in collaboration with Professor Thom Bogaard from TU Delft (The Netherlands), together with faculty professors and field experts. The six-day intensive curriculum addressed the escalating impacts of climate change in Southeast Asia such as flooding, landslides, and coastal erosion by integrating global technical frameworks with Thai local wisdom and royally initiated development concepts, including the Vetiver system and the “Kaem Ling” (Monkey Cheek) water retention system.
Program Highlights: From Theory to Field Practice
The curriculum offered a comprehensive mix of academic rigor and practical application:
- Technical Workshops: Key themes included ecological slope stabilization, bio-slope mechanics, and vegetation in hydraulic engineering.
- Innovative Technologies: Participants explored biochar technology and carbon management, featuring live demonstrations of biochar production using a Kontiki kiln with advanced emission monitoring.
- Urban & Coastal Resilience: The program covered urban flood resilience through the “Sponge City” concept and coastal protection strategies.
- Field Immersions: Participants visited Benchakitti Forest Park to study urban wetland restoration and traveled to coastal sites for hands-on mangrove rehabilitation.
Exceptional Outcomes and Global Impact
The program brought together 35 professionals and researchers from nine countries—Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Uganda, and Vietnam. The course received outstanding evaluations across all categories, with participants expressing profound appreciation for the well-rounded curriculum that seamlessly integrated rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical field applications.
Beyond enhancing technical expertise in biochar application, ecological engineering, and watershed-based planning, the program was highly praised for fostering a robust international professional network, connecting global experts and practitioners in a collaborative environment.
Empowering Students with a “Global Mindset”
A significant highlight of this initiative was the direct impact on Kasetsart Engineering students. By working side-by-side with international experts and practitioners, students gained invaluable experience in cross-border communication and a deeper understanding of diverse infrastructure and regional disaster challenges. This exposure is a vital mechanism in developing a true “Global Mindset,” equipping our future engineers with the skills needed to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.
Moving forward, the Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, is committed to the continuous development of international programs. Our vision is to further strengthen global academic partnerships and propel Thai engineering onto the world stage, solidifying our position as a premier International Hub for sustainable engineering and disaster risk reduction.
