On 27 October 2025, at Southwest University in the People’s Republic of China, the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN (IRDTP) at Khon Kaen University (KKU), in partnership with Southwest University, hosted the Teacher Capacity Enhancement Programme: Cultivating Future Technology Talents.
This programme was designed to develop the competencies of Thai teachers and educational personnel, preparing them for the changes inherent in the digital world, while also promoting international academic cooperation between Thailand and China. The training took place from 26 October to 2 November 2025 at Southwest University in Chongqing, People’s Republic of China. The initiative attracted significant interest, with over 62 participants, including educational administrators, supervisors, teachers, and personnel from across Thailand.
The opening ceremony included an address by Associate Professor Zhao Yufang, Vice President of Southwest University, who offered a warm welcome to the delegation from Khon Kaen University. The KKU delegation was led by Assistant Professor Dr. Phongthanat Sae-joo, Director of the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, accompanied by KKU faculty members. Dr. Sae-joo subsequently emphasised the critical importance of collaborative teacher development in the digital era and the commitment to continuously expanding academic cooperation between the two universities.
The Director of IRDTP remarked: “As this marks the inaugural year of collaboration between the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN (IRDTP KKU) and Southwest University, we hope this programme serves as a crucial starting point for continuous teacher professional development. We also intend for it to be an inspirational platform for Thai teachers to learn and grow on an international stage.”
The programme was structured to enhance participants’ experience, address current challenges, and provide strategies for the professional development of science teachers. This included special lectures and workshops conducted at Khon Kaen University from 18 to 19 October 2025, followed by intensive deep-dive workshops and practical training sessions covering various topics at Southwest University in Chongqing.
The two phases of the programme successfully facilitated the international exchange of knowledge and expertise in teacher development. Participating teachers and educational personnel reported gaining essential knowledge and skills in utilising digital technology for instruction, leading to the development of innovative learning management practices that can be sustainably implemented in their respective schools.
The Teacher Capacity Enhancement Programme: Cultivating Future Technology Talents was implemented across three distinct phases:
Phase 1: 18–19 October 2025 Special lectures and workshops conducted at Khon Kaen University and via online platforms.
Phase 2: 26 October – 2 November 2025 In-depth practical workshops at Southwest University in Chongqing, People’s Republic of China. This included lectures and workshops on topics such as:
- STEM Education and Project-Based Learning
- Scientific Inquiry and Instructional Innovation
- Developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Curriculum for primary and secondary schools
- Field studies at schools affiliated with Southwest University
Phase 3: Throughout November 2025 Knowledge exchange, follow-up, and application of learning at Khon Kaen University and via online platforms.
This collaborative programme is scheduled for continuation, with the second cohort anticipated in 2026. The recurring initiative aims to support, promote, and advance educational cooperation, fostering academic strength to elevate the quality of teaching and build a learning society within the ASEAN region. This effort aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG4) to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, and (SDG17) to revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development.
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