By AIT Public Affairs
14 December 2024: The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) celebrated its 142nd Graduation Ceremony on 13 December 2024, a milestone event reflecting academic excellence and international diversity. A total of 206 students from 18 countries graduated, including 48 doctoral and 158 master’s degree recipients. Graduates from the School of Engineering and Technology (SET), the School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD), and the School of Management (SOM) were honored for their achievements. These new graduates will join a global network of over 27,000 alumni.
AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li addressed the graduates with heartfelt congratulations, commending their dedication and resilience in achieving this significant milestone. He highlighted the transformative journey of AIT graduates, celebrating the diversity of the graduating class and their unique ability to tackle challenges from multiple perspectives, craft innovative solutions, and create connections across borders.
Prof. Li reflected on the rapidly changing global landscape, urging graduates to embrace their roles as leaders and change-makers. He emphasized AIT’s legacy as a hub for social impact and sustainable development, inspiring the graduates to uphold the institute’s core values of integrity, resilience, and service to society. He concluded with a powerful remark: “Small acts of change, when multiplied, have the power to create extraordinary impact.”
Her Excellency Mrs Rukhsana Afzaal, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Thailand and Permanent Representative to the UNESCAP congratulated the graduates of AIT in her keynote speech. She highlighted the opportunities that arise from challenges such as climate change, food security, and social inequality, urging the need for innovation in engineering, information technology, and sustainable development. Mrs. Afzaal encouraged lifelong learning, adaptability, and curiosity, urging graduates to become agents of change. She stated, “The world needs your talent now more than ever before to not only define your own careers but also shape the future of our communities.”
Distinguished AIT alumna Dr. Jiraporn Sirikum, President and CEO of Electricity Generating Public Co. Ltd. and President of the AIT Alumni Association Thailand Chapter, shared her professional journey and expressed gratitude to AIT for shaping her career. Dr. Jiraporn earned her Master of Engineering in Energy Planning and Policy in 1995 and her Doctor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering in 2006 from AIT. Reflecting on her experiences, she stated, “AIT is like another home where my ideas and identity were nurtured and supported.” She emphasized the importance of determination and focus, encouraging graduates to embrace challenges, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the prosperity of their countries, organizations, and families. Dr. Jiraporn also shared her personal motto: “Know yourself, dream big, and achieve your goals. Opportunity comes once—dare to act, dare to decide, and do the right thing at the right time.”
During the ceremony, Assistant Professor Dr. Chaklam Silpasuwanchai from the Department of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in SET received the Distinguished Teacher Award in the Large Class category. This award recognizes his exceptional contributions to student learning and pedagogy. Dr. Chaklam dedicated the award to teachers and faculty members who inspire students to excel. As an expert in Medical Imaging and AI, he emphasized the importance of perseverance, urging graduates to dream big and believe in themselves, even when faced with challenges. Reflecting on his own journey, he shared that there is no greater satisfaction than overcoming obstacles.
Ms. Nguyen Nhat Ha Chi a doctoral graduate from Environmental Engineering and Management, Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, SET delivered a speech on behalf of all graduates, reflecting on a journey defined by resilience, adaptability, and the ability to overcome challenges. She emphasized the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both academic and personal life, encouraging her fellow women graduates to pursue their passions despite societal expectations. Dr. Nguyen shared her experience of balancing rigorous research with family responsibilities and expressed gratitude for the support she received from her family. She also thanked AIT for its multicultural environment and the lifelong connections formed during her studies. In closing, she wished her fellow graduates health, happiness, and fulfilling futures.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including H.E. Dr. Subin Pinkayan, Honorary Advisor to the AIT Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Former Foreign Minister of Thailand and Former Chairman of the AIT Board of Trustees; H.E. Mr. Dhan Bahadur Oli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, The Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; H.E. Mrs. E.A.S. Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, The Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; Ms. Maleka Parveen, ndc, Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission,The Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; Mr. Vilavath Thephithack, The Education-Cultural Counsellor, The Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; Mrs. A.W.S Samanmali; First Secretary and Head of Chancery; The Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; Ms. Yurie Osawa, First Secretary and Alternate PR to ESCAP, The Embassy of Japan; Mr. Samkhan Sab, First Secretary, The Royal Embassy of Cambodia; Mrs. Kajal Gupta, Attache (SEC), The Embassy of the Republic of India; Dr. Naveed Anwar, CEO, CSI Bangkok Co., Ltd.; Mr. Chawalit Tanomtin, Chief Executive Officer, Right Tunnelling Public Company Limited; Mr. Amitabh Anthonypillai, Country Manager, Thailand Sri Lankan Airlines; Ms. Teeranun Neamhoe, HR Manager, Allplus (Thailand) Co., Ltd.; Mr. Sean Doral, Program Officer, International Telecommunication Union (ITU); Dr. Phung Van Dong, Executive Director of AIT Vietnam and Dr. Zakir M. Hossain, Executive Secretary of the AIT Alumni Association.
Students Reflection
Mr. Natchapol Tantanasutiwong, Structural Engineering Program (STE), SET, Thailand
During my master’s degree at AIT, I faced the challenge of using English for studying, conducting my thesis, and communicating with international friends for the first time. It was both exciting and life-changing. Studying at AIT offered quality academics and a unique environment, while also allowing me to exchange cultures and languages with friends from around the world. With the guidance of professors and support from peers, I overcame demanding coursework and assignments, growing both personally and academically. Beyond academics, AIT became a place of friendships, networks, and lifelong memories. Now, as I step into the real world, I am eager to apply the skills I have gained and contribute meaningfully as a structural engineer. Thank you, AIT!
Mr. Nishanta Sharma, Development and Sustainability Program (DSP), SERD, Nepal
My journey at AIT has been life-changing, bridging academic excellence with real-world climate change and sustainable development opportunities. I received tremendous support from my PhD committee, which guided my research and helped me secure a grant from UGC Nepal. I gained invaluable multicultural exposure at AIT through research and teaching assistant opportunities, including remarkable experiences at UNESCAP and the Chitralada Technology Institute. The institute’s friendly faculty, supportive management, and global perspective have been instrumental in shaping my professional trajectory, opening doors to international research and publications. As I graduate, I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired to contribute meaningfully to contemporary global challenges.
Ms. Htet Yamin Ko Ko, Remote sensing and geographic information systems, SET, Myanmar
I began my AIT journey in August 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arriving in Thailand that September, my life changed forever. I came to AIT ready to reinvent myself and embrace challenges that would shape me into a better version of myself. Gradually, AIT became my home, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else. AIT gave me the freedom to grow and countless opportunities to collaborate with brilliant minds from around the world. The journey was demanding, with rigorous academics and personal goals, but every challenge fuelled my growth. As my Ph.D. chapter ends, I’m excited to embrace the future, armed with strength and gratitude. Thank you, AIT—you’ll always be special to me.
Ms. Thet Htet Lin Han, Masters in Business Administration, SOM, Myanmar
I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have experienced at AIT, where I have learned, grown, and achieved alongside talented peers and inspiring faculty. The School of Management’s current and relevant coursework has equipped me with the practical skills and confidence needed to tackle real-world challenges. As I graduate, I look forward to applying this knowledge to make a meaningful impact in my field and to continue striving for excellence in my professional journey.
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