Chula, Kasetsart Partner to Tackle Thailand’s Pharmacist Shortage 

In an era where the public health system continues to face mounting challenges, the readiness and availability of medical personnel remains an urgent issue that must be addressed. Chulalongkorn University and Kasetsart University have joined forces to overcome educational limitations by collaborating to develop medical professionals and establish the foundation for enhancing Thailand’s public health system. This collaboration is expected to lead to tangible reforms in pharmaceutical education. 

The Memorandum of Academic Cooperation between Chulalongkorn University and Kasetsart University was signed on September 25, 2025, in Room 402, 4th floor, 80th Anniversary Building, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University. 

The event opened with a speech by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tuesuwan, Associate Dean for Global Mission and Professional Affairs, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, outlining the objectives of the initiative. This was followed by remarks from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vorasit Vongsutilers, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somwang Khantayanuwong, Vice President for Health Science Development and Suphanburi Campus, Kasetsart University, expressing their institutions’ readiness to sign the academic cooperation agreement. 

The signing ceremony was attended by administrators from both institutions, who served as witnesses. 

A Historic Collaboration 

This significant collaboration stems from a shared understanding of the importance of developing medical personnel, supported by the Thai Cabinet resolution dated January 24, 2023, which approved over 8.863 billion baht in funding for the Kasetsart University Medical Park project. 

A key feature of this project is its comprehensive vision for the future of Thailand’s healthcare system, emphasizing sustainable development that addresses the needs of an aging population and an agricultural society. It also supports Thailand’s goal of becoming a regional medical hub. 

10-Year Mentorship and Knowledge Exchange 

Over a 10-year period (September 1, 2025 – August 31, 2035), the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Chulalongkorn University will act as a mentor institution to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Kasetsart University. The cooperation will cover: 

• Curriculum development 
• Knowledge exchange 
• Collaborative research 
• Pharmaceutical innovation 

The ultimate goal is to produce high-quality pharmacy graduates who are creative, adaptable, and capable of integrating various disciplines to improve health systems and enhance the quality of life for the Thai people, especially in the context of rural and aging communities. 

This collaboration not only aims to develop medical personnel, but also lays the groundwork for a stronger national public health system, advances pharmaceutical innovation, and enhances Thailand’s global competitiveness. 

Driving Forward with Shared Vision and Expertise 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vorasit Vongsutilers emphasized that the agreement is the result of ongoing discussions between the two institutions, which share a common goal: to produce professionally competent pharmacists while also generating knowledge and research to support society and the nation. 

Chulalongkorn University will ensure that the curriculum meets the Pharmacy Council of Thailand’s standards and will assist in developing Kasetsart University’s graduates and future research initiatives. 

In addition to graduate development, both institutions plan to initiate various national-level projects, especially in the field of Thai herbal medicine, which is considered a national strength. 

Chulalongkorn University is committed to advancing herbal research and innovation to the global stage, while Kasetsart University has long-standing expertise in agriculture and medicinal plants. This collaboration thus brings together complementary strengths to create valuable innovations and knowledge. 

“Chulalongkorn and Kasetsart Universities are confident that this cooperation will help develop high-quality pharmacists and researchers for the nation and enhance healthcare security, the pharmaceutical system, and related industries—all for the greater benefit of Thai society,” concluded Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vorasit. 

Bridging the Gap in Pharmaceutical Manpower 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somwang Khantayanuwong expressed gratitude to Chulalongkorn University for serving as the mentor institution in helping develop the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Kasetsart University — one of the key faculties within the Kasetsart University Medical Park project, which aims to produce medical professionals for Thai society. 

Currently, Thailand faces a shortage of over 10,000 pharmacists, according to the Pharmacy Council of Thailand. Recognizing the critical need, Kasetsart University is committed to establishing its Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences to help alleviate this shortfall. 

The Medical Park project has received continuous government funding through 2029, enabling long-term planning to train medical personnel — particularly pharmacists — within the next six years. This initiative will also promote the development of Thai herbal medicines, both as treatment options and as raw materials for the pharmaceutical industry. 

“Kasetsart University believes this collaboration will serve as a model for academic partnerships between Thai higher education institutions in creating innovation and development that benefits society — especially in the fields of pharmaceutical sciences and Thai herbal medicine, where both universities share the vision of supporting sustainable public health,” concluded Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somwang. 

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