On 14 May 2026, The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) strengthened its international collaboration efforts by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Research for Development (IRD), France, during the Franco-Thai Symposium on Higher Education, Research and Innovation 2026.
The signing ceremony took place at the Centara Grand at CentralPlaza Ladprao in Bangkok as part of a major bilateral event organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) in collaboration with the French Embassy in Thailand. The symposium commemorated 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and France while advancing partnerships in higher education, science, research, and innovation.
The symposium was officially opened by H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, Ambassador of France to Thailand, and H.E. Prof. Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI). The event brought together more than 300 participants, including senior government officials, academic leaders, researchers, and representatives from both countries.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Yotsanun emphasized the long-standing and evolving partnership between Thailand and France, noting that the collaboration has led to tangible outcomes such as student exchanges, joint research initiatives, scholarships, and capacity development programs. He highlighted France as a strategic partner in advancing Thailand’s higher education and research landscape.
A key highlight of the symposium was the signing of approximately 20 cooperation agreements among leading institutions from both countries. On this occasion, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li signed a MoU with the Institute of Research for Development (IRD), France, marking a significant step forward in strengthening AIT’s research and academic partnerships with French institutions.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the French Ambassador to Thailand and Thailand’s Minister of Higher Education, underscoring the importance of the partnership at the national and international levels.
The AIT–IRD MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration through joint research initiatives, academic and scientific exchange, training and capacity development, consultancy, and knowledge sharing.
The partnership will focus on major interdisciplinary themes aligned with global sustainability priorities, including climate change and environmental sustainability, smart and resilient communities, integrated food-energy-water systems, and technological innovation to address societal challenges.
This collaboration reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to generating impactful research solutions to address complex global issues, particularly in developing regions.
From AIT, MoU signing ceremony was also attended by Prof. Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh – Distinguished Emeritus Professor, Environmental Engineering and Management, Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering; Director, Air Quality Nexus Center; Dr. Sumana Shrestha – Director, Office of International Affairs, Office of Development & External Affairs; Dr. Lai Nguyen Huy – Research Specialist, Environmental Engineering and Management, Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Change; Ms. Sirima Sirimattayanan – Senior Program Officer, Office of International Affairs, Office of Development & External Affairs and Ms. Khing Thwe Oo – Air Quality Nexus Center. From IRD Dr. Philippe Charvis – Deputy Director for Science
and Dr. Xavier Mari – IRD Representative in Thailand attended the signing.
AIT’s participation in the symposium and the signing of the MoU with IRD further strengthen its role as a leading international postgraduate institution in Asia. The agreement enhances AIT’s long-standing engagement with French research organizations.
In addition to the MoU signing, the AIT delegation including Prof. Pai-Chi Li, AIT President, Prof. Manukid Parnichkun, Vice President for Academic and Research, and Ms. Sirima Sirimattayanan, participated in the official reception hosted at the French Embassy in Bangkok. The reception marked the closing of the Franco-Thai Symposium week, providing further opportunities for networking and strengthening institutional partnerships between Thailand and France.
The AIT–IRD MoU represents a significant milestone in reinforcing Franco-Thai academic cooperation. By fostering collaborative research, innovation, and knowledge exchange, the partnership is expected to contribute to sustainable development and scientific advancement at both regional and global levels.
As AIT continues to expand its international collaborations, this agreement highlights its strategic role in bridging global expertise to address pressing challenges and drive transformative impact.
