King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) is one of Thailand’s leading universities of technology, recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to integrating technological innovation with sustainability and the humanities. The university demonstrates strong academic and research capabilities in sustainable urban planning, cultural heritage preservation, and creative design, contributing to sustainable development initiatives across Southeast Asia.
The delegation from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at National Taipei University of Technology (NTUT) engaged in an academic exchange with the School of Architecture and Design (SoA+D) at KMUTT.
The exchange began with a guided tour of the School’s facilities and an exhibition of student works, providing insights into its teaching spaces and creative learning environment. The visit highlighted the School’s emphasis on practice-oriented education and interdisciplinary integration. Student projects demonstrated diverse approaches to spatial design, creative thinking, and responses to contemporary social issues, reflecting the integration of design education with social engagement.
The academic exchange session commenced with welcoming remarks by Asst. Prof. Waraluk Pansuwan, Dean of SoA+D, who introduced the School’s strategic development priorities and vision for international collaboration. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martin Schoch subsequently presented an overview of the School’s organizational structure, curriculum design, and internationalization strategies, providing the delegation with a comprehensive understanding of its educational framework.
Dr. Kanjanee Budthimedhee, Associate Dean for Research and Academic Service, outlined the School’s key research priorities, including design innovation, urban and social issues, and environmental sustainability. Her presentation highlighted the School’s commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Dr. Wisit Supangkaratana also introduced developments in digital media and interactive design, demonstrating the integration of technology and the arts in teaching and research.
During the discussions, both institutions identified potential areas of academic collaboration based on their respective strengths in ceramic arts and crafts, cultural heritage management, and visual arts. They also explored opportunities for joint participation in international academic conferences, calls for research papers, and collaborative curriculum development.
The proposed research collaboration would focus on contemporary crafts, cultural marketing, and sustainable urban development. Both institutions further discussed potential faculty and student exchange programs, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) workshops, and thematic intensive courses designed to enhance students’ international learning experiences, interdisciplinary competencies, and practical skills.
Importantly, both parties reached a mutual understanding to pursue the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the university or college level, together with a student exchange agreement. These prospective agreements would provide an institutional framework for establishing a sustainable, long-term academic partnership and advancing bilateral cooperation in education, research, and international exchange (see accompanying figures).
Asst. Prof. Waraluk Pansuwan – Dean, School of Architecture and Design (SoA+D)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martin Schoch – Assistant to the Dean for Internationalization
Asst. Prof. Dr. Chanyaporn Bstieler – Chairperson, Design and Planning Graduate Program; Head, Lighting Research Innovation Center (LRIC)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nuttinee Karnchanaporn – Faculty Member, Interior Architecture Program; Head, Spatial Environment and Experimental Design Laboratory (SEED Lab)
Asst. Prof. Chanida Lumthaweepaisal – Chairperson, Interior Architecture Program
Aj. Nichamon Dejprasert – Faculty Member, Interior Architecture Program
Asst. Prof. Nanthana Boonla-or – Head, Social/Cultural/Innovation Lab
Dr. Kanjanee Budthimedhee – Associate Dean for Research and Academic Service; Head, Urban Senses Lab
Aj. Soraya Nakasuwan – Chairperson, Communication Design Program
Thitikarn Srithranon – Foreign Affairs Coordinator
Dr. Wisit Supangkaratana – Acting Associate Head, Project of Media Arts & Technology
Asst. Prof. Dr. Kejkaew Thanasuan – Acting Assistant to the Head, Project of Media Arts & Technology for Student Development and Internationalization
