By Office of International and Public Affairs
The Asian Institute of Technology observed its 141st Graduation Ceremony on 17 May 2024, celebrating the graduation of 249 postgraduate students and the legendary career of its former Chairman and inaugural class alumnus.
AIT awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree to H.E. Dr. Subin Pinkayan, former Foreign Minister of Thailand and former Chairman of the AIT Board of Trustees. Dr. Subin served as AIT Chairman from September 2013 to January 2020 and was a member of the first-ever graduating class of the institute in 1961.
Dr. Subin has excelled in academia, government service, politics, and business and served in various government ministries. He was inducted into AIT’s inaugural Hall of Fame in 2010. He chaired the AIT Board of Trustees from 2013 to 2020, leading during the post-2011 flood crisis. Dr. Subin has significantly supported AIT, funding R&D, library renovations, and student exchange scholarships. He completed his M. Eng. at AIT, earned a Ph.D. from Colorado State University, and returned to AIT as a faculty member. He has been an advisor to engineering firms in Southeast Asia and held prominent roles in professional and academic organizations. His numerous accolades include national and international awards and prestigious Thai honors.
Presenting the degree on behalf of the AIT Board of Trustees, Mr. Chaiwat Kovavisarach, Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the AIT Board and CEO of Bangchak Corporation, highlighted Dr. Subin’s “exceptional contributions as an engineer, business executive, academician, diplomat, and social citizen.”
“As I accept this esteemed honor, I do so with a profound sense of responsibility. I pledge to continue advocating for the values and principles that AIT stands for – excellence, diversity, and sustainability.” – H. E. Dr. Subin Pinkayan
Dr. Subin expressed his deepest appreciation for the “extraordinary” honor bestowed upon him by AIT. He said: “Today, as we celebrate the achievements of the graduating class of 2024, I am reminded of the transformative power of education. Each of you, the graduates, embodies the spirit of perseverance, dedication, and excellence. As you embark on the next phase of your journey, remember the values instilled in you by AIT – integrity, innovation, and global citizenship..” He concluded by congratulating all the graduates and wishing them futures filled with success and endless possibilities.
AIT President Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto congratulated the graduating students, stating, “Your hard work, dedication, and commitment have brought you to this day, and you should be proud of your achievements.” He emphasized that this milestone marks not the end but the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and growth. “The world constantly changes, and keeping up with your field’s latest trends and developments is crucial. Be prepared to adapt and evolve with the rapidly changing times,” Prof. Yamamoto remarked.
Enjoy some captured memories of the joyful graduation day through picture galleries on our social media platform.
