On 6 May 2022, Prof. Dr. Anek Laothamatas, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) presided over the launching event of Thailand Academy of Sciences, or TAS. The event consisted of a keynote speech by MHESI Minister, followed by a public seminar in which NXPO President Dr. Kitipong Promwong joined the speaker panel. 

In his remarks, Minister Anek underscored the importance of science and technology as the key to sustainable development. The decision to establish TAS was reached together with the setting up of Thailand Academy of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts (TASSHA). While TASSHA aims to support research and development in history, archaeology and culture, and turn the knowledge into economic value, TAS provides a platform where scientists, research institutes, universities and scientific infrastructure are brought together to drive S&T development to improve Thailand’s competitiveness. Three platforms are set up to drive TAS’s mission: 1) Frontline Think Tank, 2) Frontier Science Alliances, and 3) Future Graduate Platform. Minister Anek envisioned that TAS will be instrumental in enabling his ministry to bring Thailand to a developed country status by 2037. 

In the seminar, Dr. Kitipong detailed the Frontline Think Tank platform of TAS. Frontline Think Tank aims to unleash the potential of scientists – young and older generations – to take an active role in shaping the public policy concerning science and technology and encouraging positive shifts in public attitude towards science. Thailand is faced with multiple challenging issues that the policy think tank can offer solutions and present opportunities. Thailand’s goals of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emission by 2065, escaping the middle-income trap and others all require innovations – both technological and social innovations. Availability of experts in various fields – ranging from AI, to space technology, quantum technology and energy – will enable TAS to offer science-based advice to policy-making agencies – e.g., NXPO, the Office of MHESI Permanent Secretary and Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI). TAS will also work with non-government bodies such as associations, foundations and institutes working in the realm of science and technology. Dr. Kitipong highlighted the work with The Council of Scientific and Technological Association of Thailand (COSTAT) in launching new initiatives such as Creative Schools for Sustainability, Sustainable Agricultural Community and Low-carbon Society as an example of such partnership.