กระทรวงการอุดมศึกษา วิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรม

Overview

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) is a key government agency in Thailand responsible for overseeing and coordinating the nation's higher education, scientific research, and innovation sectors. Established on May 2, 2019, through the Act of Ministries, Bureaus, and Departments Improvement (No. 19), 2562 BE (2019), the Ministry aims to foster an innovation-driven economy and society by enhancing the quality and accessibility of higher education, promoting scientific research, and encouraging innovation across various sectors.

Historical and Legal Framework

MHESI was formed by merging the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Office of the Higher Education Commission, and the National Research Council of Thailand. This restructuring aimed to create a unified body that could more effectively address the challenges and opportunities in higher education and research. The establishment of the Ministry was formalized through the Act of Ministries, Bureaus, and Departments Improvement (No. 19), 2562 BE (2019), which took effect on May 2, 2019, during the administration of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

MHESI's mission is to promote, support, and supervise higher education to adapt to global changes, develop human resources in line with national needs, and conduct research and innovation to advance communities, societies, and the nation in science, technology, social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary fields. The Ministry's objectives include:

• Enhancing the quality and accessibility of higher education institutions.
• Promoting research and innovation to drive economic and social development.
• Developing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the labor market.
• Fostering international collaboration in education, research, and innovation.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

MHESI operates under the executive branch of the Thai government and is headed by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The Ministry's organizational structure comprises various departments and agencies, including:

• Office of the Higher Education Commission (OHEC): Oversees higher education institutions and ensures the quality of academic programs.
• National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT): Coordinates and promotes research activities across the country.
• National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA): Supports research in science and technology and its application in the Thai economy.
• Office of Atoms for Peace: Manages nuclear safety and the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
• Department of Science Service (DSS): Provides scientific services and supports research and development activities.

These agencies work collaboratively to implement the Ministry's policies and programs. MHESI operates with a degree of independence to effectively manage and oversee the higher education and research sectors in Thailand.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

MHESI oversees the accreditation and quality assurance of higher education institutions in Thailand through the Office of the Higher Education Commission (OHEC). OHEC is responsible for:

• Developing and implementing accreditation standards for higher education institutions and programs.
• Monitoring and evaluating the quality of academic programs and institutional performance.
• Advising the Minister on matters related to higher education policy and development.

Additionally, MHESI collaborates with other stakeholders to promote continuous improvement in the higher education sector, ensuring that institutions meet national and international standards of excellence.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MHESI actively engages in international collaborations to enhance the quality of education and research in Thailand. The Ministry is a member of various regional and global organizations, including:

• Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): Collaborates on educational initiatives and research projects within the region.
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): Participates in global educational and cultural programs.
• World Economic Forum (WEF): Engages in discussions on global economic and educational issues.

Through these memberships, MHESI participates in initiatives aimed at improving educational standards, promoting cultural exchange, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

MHESI's initiatives are shaping the future of higher education in Thailand by:

• Enhancing Research and Innovation: The Ministry is focusing on developing research centers, providing grants, and promoting scientific research to address national development priorities and contribute to global knowledge.
• Promoting Entrepreneurship: MHESI is fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
• Ensuring Quality Assurance: The Ministry is working to improve accreditation processes and institutional evaluations to ensure the delivery of high-quality education.
• Expanding International Collaboration: MHESI is strengthening partnerships with international institutions to enhance educational opportunities and research capabilities.

Summary

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation of Thailand plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's educational landscape. Through its comprehensive policies and strategic initiatives, the Ministry aims to provide quality education, promote research and innovation, and foster cultural development. Its commitment to inclusive and equitable opportunities reflects Thailand's dedication to human capital development and national progress.

FAQs

1. What is the role of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation?

   The Ministry is responsible for overseeing and regulating higher education, scientific research, and innovation in Thailand, ensuring the delivery of quality services in these sectors.

2. When was the Ministry established?

   The Ministry was established on May 2, 2019, through the Act of Ministries, Bureaus, and Departments Improvement (No. 19), 2562 BE (2019).

3. Who leads the Ministry?

   The Ministry is headed by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, supported by various departments and agencies.

4. What is the vision of the Ministry?

   The Ministry's vision is to foster an innovation-driven economy and society by enhancing the quality and accessibility of higher education, promoting scientific research, and encouraging innovation across various sectors.

5. How does the Ministry support higher education?

   The Ministry supports higher education through policy development, accreditation processes, and initiatives aimed at enhancing research and innovation within institutions.

Organization Name

กระทรวงการอุดมศึกษา วิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรม

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation

Acronym

MHESI

Year of Establishment

2019

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

5/47 Rama 6 Road, Thung Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi
Bangkok
10400 Bangkok Metropolitan Area Thailand

Phone

+66 2 333 3700

Fax

+66 2 333 3833

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation's Facebook page

X (Twitter)

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation's X page

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation's YouTube channel

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation's Wikipedia article

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