Thailand Revokes Approval for Amata University's Master's Program Collaboration with National Taiwan University Due to Non-Implementation

(Central News Agency reporters Li Zongxian and Xu Zhiwei, Bangkok-Taipei, June 17) The Thai government has decided to revoke the 2018 cabinet approval allowing Amata University to operate a master's program under National Taiwan University's College of Engineering in Thailand, due to the program's failure to launch as planned over the years.

National Taiwan University responded in writing, stating that the collaboration was halted during the preliminary planning phase after assessing limited demand from international students, and no actual preparations for launching the program were ever made. Therefore, no faculty or student rights or interests have been affected.

Khaosod English reported today that Deputy Government Spokesperson Phatdarasmi Thongsaluayakorn announced yesterday, following the cabinet meeting, that the decision was made based on recommendations from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

On June 19, 2018, the Thai cabinet approved Amata University's proposal to establish a master's program (graduate school) under National Taiwan University, aiming to strengthen international academic cooperation and cultivate talent for advanced industries.

According to Thairath, a committee responsible for overseeing foreign higher education institutions found that Amata University had never initiated the program and had failed to submit required progress reports to the authorities. Despite repeated requests for clarification from relevant agencies, the university did not provide explanations.

The committee concluded that maintaining the 2018 cabinet approval could create confusion about the program's current status and the integrity of Thailand's educational oversight mechanisms. Therefore, it recommended formally revoking the approval to reflect the actual situation.

Officials stated that since no teaching or academic activities were ever conducted after approval, the revocation will not affect any students.

The Thai government emphasized that this move ensures policy alignment with reality and enhances transparency and operational efficiency in regulating foreign collaborative higher education programs. (Edited by Chen Hui-ping) 1150617

Stand with the facts. Your support is the force that protects press freedom.

Download the CNA 'First News' app to instantly access the latest updates.

Text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, broadcast, publicly transmitted, or otherwise used without authorization.