The Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation (CSII) and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) are exploring a sustained collaboration, leveraging AIT’s acclaimed legacy with CSII’s cutting-edge approach. Together, they aim to introduce combined Bachelor-Master programs, bolster student exchange initiatives, extend internship ventures, hold joint bootcamps, and initiate faculty-guided projects and capstone endeavors.
This proposed alliance was discussed during the visit of an AIT delegation to CSII on September 5, 2023. Led by AIT President Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, the AIT team explored the potential benefits of a partnership with CSII aiming at enriching the experiences of students enrolled in both institutions.
“AIT has a strong legacy and brand name, and its mission is to serve the region and beyond,” stated Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto. He added that AIT is keenly addressing issues such as climate change and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, while remaining committed to its mission, AIT recognizes that change is essential. The Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation (CSII) serves as a commendable model to emulate, Prof. Yamamoto remarked.
Welcoming the delegation was CSII Executive Director, Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, who had previously served AIT in various capacities, including as faculty member and President. He now serves the Institute as an Executive Committee member. Drawing comparisons between AIT and CSII, Professor Worsak pointed out both similarities and differences, emphasizing AIT’s adaptability and CSII’s innovative approach. He further explained how the strengths of both institutions could complement each other.
In particular, the two institutions discussed the possibility of offering a joint Bachelor-Master degree program, where the Bachelor’s program would be provided by CSII with students transitioning to AIT for their Master’s degree. Another focus of discussion was the potential for AIT faculty to serve as advisors for the capstone project integral to CSII’s four-year Bachelor of Arts and Science in Integrated Innovation (BAScii) program. Additionally, BAScii students would have the opportunity to participate in AIT’s bootcamps and subsequently undertake internships in various AIT projects. This partnership would be advantageous for AIT, with BAScii acting as a feeder for their Master’s programs. Meanwhile, AIT’s global reach would enhance CSII’s appeal by drawing more international students.
“The AIT brand carries significant value in the region, whereas CSII represents a ‘speedboat model’ launched by Chulalongkorn University, Thailand’s oldest and most renowned university. We can harness the best of both institutes, paving the way for a long-term relationship that creates a lasting impact,” Professor Worsak stated. CSII has successfully attracted top talent to its four-year Bachelor of Arts and Science in Integrated Innovation (BAScii) program. Impressively, the first batch of graduating students has already launched their startup projects.
The AIT delegation was led by Prof. Yamamoto and included Vice Presidents Dr. Roger Levermore and Mr. Russell Bruce Rein; Dean Sangam Shrestha; Directors Prof. Nitin Kumar Tripathi, Mr. Emilio Paz Jr., Chalita Letwinyu, Dr. Sumana Shrestha, and Ms. Chotiros Mongkolchorirat; and Institute Secretary, Karma Rana. On the CSII side, in addition to Prof. Worsak, the team included faculty members Dr. Pietro Borsano, Prof. Agachai Sumalee, Dr. Ning Li, Dr. Francis Kim, and Dr. Marko Niinimaki. The team also included Directors Dr. Pakjira Leelertpha and Dr. Warinya Chemnasiri; Chief Communications Officer Bajinder Pal Singh; International Affairs Officer Ms Daria Dmitrieva; Secretary to the Executive Director, Ms. Thittaya Phodhipandadhum; and Academic Affairs Officer, Mr. Pachar Kititeekakul.
