JSPS Bangkok Office organized a program briefing at Prince of Songkla University (PSU) on February 12, 2015 as a part of “Japan Education Fair”.

PSU was established in 1967 as the first university in southern Thailand, consists of five campuses offering various programs of education consistent with the needs of their communities. PSU also comprises 30 faculties, two hospitals, and more than 40 excellence and research centers.

courtesy visit Group Photo with PSU executives

Mr. Koji Tawara, First Secretary of Embassy of Japan in Thailand and Japanese delegates including embassy staff members and Japanese universities are welcomed by Dr. Ram Yamsaengsung, Assistant President for International Affairs of PSU. During the meeting, participants discussed international collaboration both researchers and students, and the possibility of developing dual degree programs.

PSU courtesy visit

Following the meeting with PSU representatives, JSPS guidance seminar was convened with almost 30 participants.

Dr. Suppasil Maneerat, Deputy Director for Research Strategy made his opening remarks. Dr. Suppasil had participated in JSPS Core University Program supported by Yamaguchi University and Kasetsart University. Mr. Daisuke Yamada, Deputy Director of JSPS Bangkok Office explained JSPS’s program menu.

The session also featured two speakers from PSU. Dr. Sirusa Kritsanapuntu, assistant professor of Faculty of Science, former JSPS RONPAKU fellow, who obtained Ph. D. degree at Nagasaki University spoke about her research experiences and life in Japan.

(From the left) Dr. Sirusa and Dr. Suppasil

Another JSPS alumni member, Dr. Sompong Te-chato, associate professor of Faculty of Natural Resources, who was recipient of Monbukagakusho scholarship and RONPAKU Fellow, who obtained his Ph.D. degree at Chiba University explained about JSPS programs and his experience.

(From the left) Mr. Tawara and Dr. Sompong

At this session, Mr. Koji Tawara, the Embassy of Japan joined the seminar for the first time to explain about Japanese governmental (Monbukagakusho) Scholarship. JSPS provides RONPAKU Fellowship Program for obtaining Ph. D. degree, information about Japanese governmental scholarship is quite significant for academic staff members who would like to obtain Ph.D. degree. Mr. Tawara realized the high demand for Ph. D. degree from academic staff members. His presentation about scholarship attracted high interests from the participants.

Mr. Tawara

Q&A session 2

Q&A session 2