On 18 August 2023, the NXPO Executive Board convened to assess the recent initiatives undertaken by NXPO. Chaired by Prof. Dr. Anek Laothamatas, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the meeting focused on two agenda items, namely the Saraburi Sandbox and the manpower development platform. 

Minister Anek underscored the significance of both the Saraburi Sandbox and the manpower development platform, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts from top government officials and executives across various agencies to drive their implementations. He also proposed elevating these initiatives to the ASEAN level by engaging ASEAN top leaders and ministers. 

NXPO President Dr. Kitipong Promwong explained that in response to Thailand’s commitment, announced at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065, NXPO has introduced the development of three models—Saraburi, Mae Moh, and Rayong—to facilitate the creation of low-carbon and sustainable cities. The Saraburi Sandbox, a collaborative effort with the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) and Thailand Concrete Association, serves as a model for a low-carbon city that can be replicated in all five regions of Thailand. Additionally, NXPO is working with Thai universities on a green campus initiative. 

The board recommended that NXPO facilitate the development of a roadmap for achieving net-zero emissions in universities and expand the net-zero agenda from universities to communities. Minister Anek also suggested that NXPO collaborate with four main organizations—the Council of University Presidents of Thailand, the Council of Rajabhat University Presidents, the Council of Rajamangala University of Technology Presidents, and the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions of Thailand—to ensure comprehensive coverage of all higher education institutions in Thailand. 

Dr. Kitipong highlighted key factors contributing to the success of the Saraburi Model. NXPO’s collaboration with the cement industry has led to an energy transformation investment plan to transition from lignite to biomass and eventually hydrogen. The project also addresses non-tariff barriers, ensuring compliance with international trading rules. Implementing large-scale projects covering industrial sectors or entire cities has increased the chances of success. Lastly, the project’s engagement of various sectors and the public has enabled the design and implementation of a wide range of activities. He further informed the meeting that the Saraburi Sandbox will be showcased in the Thailand Pavilion during COP28. 

As for the manpower development platform, Dr. Kitipong reported that the platform facilitated skill development of 50,000 individuals in the past year. This year, the target has been raised to 100,000 to support investments within and outside the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). In addition, the platform also supported the employment of 4,000 STEM talents last year, with 10,000 STEM employments anticipated this year. 

Minister Anek commended the impressive performance of the manpower development platform and envisioned its evolution into an institution through cooperation with the private sector.