In conjunction with the AIT Board of Trustees meeting on 22 August 2024, a handover ceremony was held, to mark the transition of leadership from outgoing President Professor Kazuo Yamamoto to incoming President Professor Pai-Chi Li.
In his remarks, Dr. Anat Arbhabhirama, Chairman of the AIT Board of Trustees, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Professor Yamamoto for his exceptional service and dedication to the institute. He highlighted his unwavering commitment since joining as a Government of Japan seconded faculty member in 1987, serving in various roles including Vice President for Resource Development, Vice President for Administration, Interim President, and President.
Under Professor Yamamoto’s leadership, the institute achieved its highest student enrollment in over a decade, reflecting increased interest in AIT’s programs. Professor Yamamoto’s commitment to sustainability was evident through initiatives such as the “Botanical Garden Campus Towards Net Zero” and the installation of solar energy solutions, positioning AIT as an environmentally responsible campus.
The establishment of the Kazuo Yamamoto Fund exemplified Professor Yamamoto’s dedication to fostering innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence within the AIT community. Since its inception in September 2022, the fund has supported various initiatives, including the installation of smart meters on campus, scholarships for deserving students, and professional development workshops, totaling 3,387,000 THB in donations.
Under Professor Yamamoto’s leadership, AIT also launched the Mercury Lab at the IDEA EEM Laboratory and the Center for Nexus of Air Quality, Health, Ecosystem, and Climate, further strengthening the institute’s research capabilities.
Dr. Bindu Lohani, a member of the AIT Board of Trustees and the Presidential Search Committee (PSC), introduced Prof. Pai-Chi Li as the 11th President of the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), effective September 1, 2024. He reported that the Board had unanimously approved Prof. Li’s appointment following a recommendation from the Presidential Search Committee. Prof. Li, a distinguished academician and a well-accomplished researcher with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering Systems from the University of Michigan, previously served as Vice President for Research and Development at National Taiwan University and holds numerous prestigious awards and patents in his field (refer to: https://ait.ac.th/2024/01/ait-names-professor-pai-chi-li-as-the-president-designate/)
In his acceptance remarks, incoming President Professor Pai-Chi Li expressed humility and gratitude for the opportunity to serve as AIT’s new leader. He acknowledged the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, particularly in 2025, a transition year for the institute. Professor Li emphasized his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and continuing to build on the strong foundation laid by Professor Yamamoto.
Professor Li looks forward to collaborating with the Board, faculty, staff, students, and the extended AIT community to advance the institute’s mission and make meaningful contributions to the world. He is confident that together, they will uphold AIT’s position as a leader in education and research while creating a lasting positive impact on the community and beyond.
During the Handover Ceremony, there was a symbolic transfer of the AIT Medallion from Professor Yamamoto to Professor Li. This medallion is a historic symbol worn by AIT Presidents during graduation ceremonies.
The handover ceremony marked an important milestone in AIT’s history, as the institute bids farewell to President Yamamoto and welcomes Professor Li.
