By Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs (OAAA)
On 24 February 2025, the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) welcomed a distinguished delegation from the Embassy of Finland in Singapore and Bangkok for a productive and forward-looking discussion on innovative collaborative schemes in education and science between Finland and AIT. The visit served as a platform to discuss potential partnerships in academic and research initiatives that align with both institutions’ strengths and priorities.
AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li extended appreciation for Finland’s historical support to AIT, reflecting on the long-standing relationship with Finland. He reiterated AIT’s enthusiasm for revitalizing past collaborations and exploring new opportunities in emerging fields. He stated that AIT looks forward to ongoing dialogue and concrete steps toward innovative collaborations that benefit both our institutions and the broader region.
Mr. Sanjeev Jayasinghe, Executive Director of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs, extended his warm welcome to the delegates and highlighted the rich history of collaboration between Finland and AIT. He mentioned that since 1988, Finland has played a pivotal role in supporting AIT through academic programs, research collaborations, and student scholarships. Over the years, numerous students from various countries have benefited from the Finnish-funded scholarships, the establishment of the Telecommunications Building, and the furnishing of the Pulp & Paper Building.
Prof. P. Abdul Salam, Dean of the School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD), outlined the school’s focus on environmental sustainability, climate change, and bioeconomy-related initiatives. He highlighted SERD’s academic programs, such as climate change and sustainable development, sustainable energy transition, and natural resource management, which align closely with Finland’s sustainability-focused initiatives.
Dr. Chantri Polprasert, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Management, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), provided an overview of SET’s focus areas, including artificial intelligence, data science, civil infrastructure engineering, and water engineering management, emphasizing AIT’s strong research contributions for technological innovation in the region.
Mr. Kai Tuorila, Counsellor for Trade and Investment, Embassy of Finland, Bangkok, acknowledged Finland’s keen interest in deepening collaborations with AIT in science and education and highlighted Finland’s focus on sustainability and climate change solutions, noting potential synergies with AIT’s regional expertise. He expressed enthusiasm for connecting Finnish businesses and researchers with AIT’s network.
Dr. Mika Tirronen, Counsellor of Education and Science, Embassy of Finland, Singapore, outlined various Finnish initiatives, such as Finland’s flagship research programs and the Team Finland Knowledge (TFK) program initiative, which offers opportunities for joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, joint courses and scholarship programs. He highlighted opportunities for joint research in climate science, AI, and bioeconomy, encouraging AIT faculty to leverage these collaborative schemes
Dr. Annika Vatanen, Advisor for Education, emphasized Finland’s strength in interdisciplinary research and expressed enthusiasm for connecting AIT with leading Finnish universities and institutions. She highlighted potential funding schemes that could support academic mobility and knowledge exchange between the two regions.
The discussion that followed explored ways to establish structured partnerships and identify key areas for collaboration in the fields of climate change adaptation, sustainable energy transition, artificial intelligence, and more, with a focus on bridging academic cooperation between Finland and international higher education institutions. AIT plans to engage its Deans and faculties in identifying well-matched flagship projects and TFK proposals, ensuring strong faculty ownership and alignment with shared strategic priorities.
AIT representatives highlighted the institute’s diverse student body—representing over 40 countries—and its extensive alumni network of more than 27,000 professionals across 104 countries, positioning AIT as an ideal partner for regional and global outreach. The possibility of integrating internships into collaborative programs was also explored, aligning with AIT’s emphasis on practical, industry-relevant education.
AIT and the Finnish delegation concluded the meeting on a positive note, with both parties expressing strong interest in formalizing collaborative frameworks in the near future. With a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, AIT looks forward to strengthening its ties with Finnish academic and research institutions, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources.
The meeting brought together key representatives from the Embassy of Finland and AIT. From the Embassy of Finland, attendees included Ms. Teeranuch Richiravanich, Team Finland Administrator, Embassy of Finland, Bangkok. Representing AIT were Dr. Sumana Shrestha, Director of International Affairs, and Ms. Sirima Sirimattayanan, Senior Program Officer, International Affairs, from the Office of International and Public Affairs (OIPA); Ms. Lucena D. Talaid, Senior Alumni Officer, and Mr. Bhaskaran Jacob, Senior Advancement Officer from the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs (OAAA).
