On 15 June 2026, Assoc. Prof. Wongkot Wongsapai, Vice President of NXPO, together with the NXPO team, welcomed Prof. Dr. Anthony Douglas John Haymet, Chief Scientist of Australia, and a delegation from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR), led by Dr. Timothy Zerk, Manager of International Science Investment and Cooperation, as well as officials from the Australian Embassy in Thailand. Also attending the meeting was a delegation from Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Ms. Sirindara Atthakor, Director of the South Pacific Division. The visit provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange perspectives on higher education, science, research and innovation policies and discuss potential avenues for future cooperation between Thailand and Australia.
Assoc. Prof. Wongkot presented an overview of Thailand’s higher education, science, research and innovation policy directions, which aim to advance economic and social development through science, technology, and innovation. Key priorities include transforming Thailand into a data- and AI-driven nation, developing the semiconductor industry, promoting frontier technologies such as quantum technology, space technology, and green energy, elevating Thai universities to world-class standards, and developing a highly skilled workforce to support future industries.
NXPO also highlighted its role in shaping Thailand’s policies and strategies, including the country’s science, research and innovation funding mechanisms. In addition, the office shared updates on the development of a Mission-Oriented Innovation Policy (MOIP) framework, which is being designed as a key mechanism to guide Thailand’s long-term development.
The discussion further showcased NXPO’s work in foresight and strategic planning through the APEC Center for Technology Foresight (APEC CTF), which applies foresight methodologies and futures studies to support policy formulation, prioritize science, research and innovation investments, and strengthen preparedness for emerging technologies, future challenges, and new opportunities.
Prof. Haymet shared Australia’s experience in setting national science, research and innovation priorities, particularly its investments in national research infrastructure, including high-performance computing (HPC) facilities, synchrotron infrastructure, and quantum technologies. He also emphasized the importance of fostering an innovation ecosystem that supports the growth of businesses, startups, and high-technology enterprises through government support mechanisms and innovation-oriented public procurement.
Both sides exchanged views on approaches to developing and managing large-scale research infrastructure, upgrading facilities from the institutional to the national level, and promoting shared research infrastructure. Discussions also covered the development of future industries, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductors, clean energy, and technologies that support the transition to a low-carbon society.
The meeting provided a valuable platform for exchanging experiences on science, research and innovation policymaking, national research infrastructure planning, and technology foresight. It is expected to further strengthen strategic cooperation between Thailand and Australia, particularly in the areas of policy development, research infrastructure, emerging technologies, and the creation of innovation ecosystems that support sustainable economic growth in both countries.
