Dr. Karantarat Nakwa, Assistant to the President at NXPO, delivered a special presentation on the topic “Driving Science, Research and Innovation Policy to Enhance National Competitiveness” at the press conference announcing the “2024 Thailand Research and Development Survey Results,” held on 30 April 2025 at the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).
In her presentation, Dr. Karantarat emphasized the crucial role of the science, research, and innovation (SRI) system as a strategic mechanism for enhancing the country’s competitiveness. She highlighted the importance of developing an innovation ecosystem that nurtures Innovation-Driven Enterprises (IDEs) — positioned as key engines for Thailand’s long-term economic growth. The policy also prioritizes the removal of regulatory barriers that hinder innovation-based businesses, including enabling the establishment of holding companies and implementing sandbox projects. These measures, actively promoted by NXPO, are designed to create an environment where innovation can thrive and be practically applied.
Dr. Karantarat also outlined efforts to strengthen commercialization support mechanisms, such as public-private joint investments and expanding market access for entrepreneurs through the E-Commercial and Innovation Platform (ECIP). This national platform is intended to empower enterprises to develop and commercialize innovative products for both domestic and international markets, while leveraging existing networks and resources from science parks, business incubators, and support organizations.
In the area of higher education, she highlighted the “Higher Education Sandbox” initiative, which provides universities with the flexibility to design modern, adaptive learning models that move beyond conventional standards. These models are tailored to meet the rapidly evolving demands of industry and help cultivate a highly skilled workforce aligned with national development priorities. The initiative also broadens opportunities for learners from all backgrounds to access quality higher education.
The presentation underscored policy directions for advancing the SRI system in alignment with Thailand’s national development strategy — encompassing economic growth, workforce development, and the creation of a sustainable innovation ecosystem. These initiatives form a critical foundation for enhancing the country’s long-term competitiveness.
