On September 2, Prof. Dr. Yotchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), visited Silpakorn University, Tha Phra Palace, to observe the university's research and creative presentations. Held under the theme "Promoting the Identity of Excellence: A Leading National University in Research and Creativity," the event was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Tanasait Ngawhirunpat, President of Silpakorn University, along with deans and faculty members.
Prof. Dr. Yotchanan stated that this visit reaffirms MHESI's commitment to the arts, noting that Silpakorn University is naturally the first institution that comes to mind regarding art in Thailand. He emphasized that while driving the Creative Economy is essential, understanding and preserving Pure Art is equally crucial to building national pride in cultural heritage, which in turn elevates other academic disciplines. Thailand stands out in Wellness, where art is a key component, such as in art therapy and in-depth historical and artistic research. The Minister aims to foster concrete integration between sciences and arts, highlighting that a country with only technology but no art cannot achieve sustainable growth. Advanced nations in science always progress in music and art concurrently.
The Deputy PM added that next year, MHESI aims to make Thai arts and culture a global agenda by focusing on value creation and in-depth storytelling to reveal the true worth of Thai art to the world. Furthermore, ensuring job security for art students is a priority. MHESI is ready to collaborate with the faculty to establish a cultural "Incubator," empowering art as a vital engine for the country's economic growth.
"MHESI is open to utilizing all regions of Thailand as a 'Living Lab' to collaboratively create works that will make everyone proud of our national cultural roots," said Prof. Dr. Yotchanan.
During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister and university executives laid flowers to pay respects at the Professor Silpa Bhirasri monument. They then toured the cross-disciplinary research and innovation exhibition on the first floor of the Tha Phra Palace Auditorium, exchanging views with the researchers and creators. Highlighted projects included:
The architectural and artistic expansion design for the Pagoda of the Meditation Lineage of Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta at Wat Pa Na Kham Noi, Udon Thani, designed by National Artist Ajarn Wanida Phungsunthon.
The design consulting project for the Royal Monuments at Phatra Maharajanusorn Medical Center, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, honoring His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (King Rama IX), His Royal Highness Prince Mahidol of Songkla, and Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother.
The architectural and artistic expansion design for the Dhamma Chedi Museum of Phra Dhamma Visuddhi Mongkol (Luang Ta Maha Bua) at Wat Pa Ban Tat, Udon Thani. This collaborative project by the Institute of Thai Art and Architecture and the Faculty of Architecture, Silpakorn University, was overseen by Ajarn Wanida Phungsunthon and university faculty.
