Bangkok, July 21, 2025
Walking onto Siam University’s campus on a day like this, you feel the energy. On July 21, the Thailand–China Education Partnership (TCEP) hosted a Chinese delegation for more than just a handshake and photo opportunity. The purpose was clear: strengthen collaboration and explore how Thai universities can compete on a truly global stage.
Professor Dr. Pornchai Mongkhonvanit, President of Siam University, struck a familiar yet urgent chord: higher education no longer belongs to a single country or culture. It’s a global conversation, and Siam University intends to have a voice.
Those in attendance reveal a great deal about TCEP’s strategy. Among them was Uncle Bao, a household name in China’s education circles, with more than five million followers online. When he talks about studying abroad, people listen. Another key figure, Mr. Liu Xi, serves as Deputy Dean at the Beijing International Wealth Management Institute and also heads R Squared Investment in Hong Kong. Their presence brought weight and reach to the day’s discussions.
What They Saw on Campus
The tour went beyond buildings, modern lecture halls, creative learning spaces, and tech-ready labs. What stood out were the systems designed for international students. Think bilingual support, cultural immersion programs, and a digital-first infrastructure that meets students where they are.
This isn’t just about signing another MOU. In early 2025, TCEP partnered with Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education to bring 19 Thai universities together in a common effort: to improve academic quality, ensure student safety, and strengthen ties with Chinese institutions. Siam University has been at the forefront of that push. Hosting the WFUNA Action Camp on Sustainable Cities and presenting at the APAIE Conference earlier this year show that this commitment isn’t just talk, it’s a strategy in motion.
TCEP is blending traditional diplomacy with digital influence. Having Uncle Bao in the room wasn’t a publicity stunt; it was a deliberate step toward reaching China’s digitally native generation, the ones who rely on influencers for trusted advice. In today’s landscape, building credibility means meeting students where they are—often on a screen.
Looking Toward What’s Next
The conversations that began here won’t end here. Delegates explored ideas for joint degree programs, research partnerships, and even scholarship pathways to make cross-border education more accessible. There’s also talk of student-led projects, influencer-driven campaigns, and conferences that bring together voices from both nations.
This visit was a statement. Thailand’s universities, such as Siam University, are positioning themselves not only to attract international students but also to shape the future of education in Asia actively. With TCEP steering the collaboration, the possibilities extend far beyond the campus gates.
