Chula – Defence Ministry Collaboration Empowers Human Capital for a Secure Future 

Chulalongkorn University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on academic collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to advance education, research, and innovation in the field of national security. The partnership aims to strengthen the capabilities of personnel and military forces through academic programs, training, and knowledge exchange, while building a cooperative network for a secure and sustainable future for the nation. 

The MoU signing ceremony between Chulalongkorn University and the Ministry of Defence was held on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Room 111, Maha Chulalongkorn Building. The ceremony was presided over by General Nattaphon Narkphanit, Minister of Defence, who also addressed the importance of this collaboration in promoting educational development for ministry personnel and armed forces. 

The MoU was signed by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and General Tharapong Malakam, Permanent Secretary of Defence, in the presence of Associate Professor Dr. Thiti Bovornratanaraks, Dean of the Graduate School, Professor Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich, Assistant to the President, General Chidchanok Nutchaiya, Chief of Defence Staff, General Chaiyapruek Duangprapat, Army Chief of Staff, Admiral Thadawut Tadpitakkul, Navy Chief of Staff, and Air Chief Marshal Anurak Romnarak, Air Force Chief of Staff, who co-signed as witnesses. Also attending the ceremony were General Atthaphong Phitchayaphon, Chief of the Secretariat Department, and General Sittha Mahasantana, Commandant of the National Defence Studies Institute. 

This collaboration reflects the shared vision of Chulalongkorn University and the Ministry of Defence in recognizing the importance of developing human resources in the field of national security—an essential foundation for strengthening the country’s overall capacity. Both institutions aim to integrate academic knowledge in education, science, technology, and innovation with defence and security operations. The cooperation focuses on upskilling and reskilling personnel through courses, training, and joint research to ensure integrated academic and practical development. Additionally, the partnership seeks to establish academic networks among relevant institutions and organizations to drive innovation in national security—contributing to the sustainable development of the armed forces and the nation. 

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stated that this collaboration with the Ministry of Defence aims to enhance human resource development in national security, because “national security begins with the security of the people,” and those people include the soldiers who serve the nation. Chulalongkorn University is ready to support the military with knowledge from all disciplines, enabling soldiers at all levels to learn and grow while serving. Under this partnership, Chulalongkorn has designed a variety of learning programs—both online and on-site—to provide opportunities for over 90,000–100,000 active-duty soldiers nationwide to develop skills in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI), management and economics, communication, personality and leadership, as well as health and first aid. The goal is to equip them with knowledge, skills, and qualifications that can be applied to future careers and secure lives after military service. “This collaboration represents strengthening the armed forces through intelligence and innovation—empowering the Thai military to keep pace with the rapidly changing world.” 

General Sittha Mahasantana, Commandant of the National Defence Studies Institute, noted that this collaboration marks a significant opportunity to modernize and standardize the military’s education management system. As Thailand’s leading educational institution, Chulalongkorn University will serve as a consultant and model for educational development within military institutions. “In the past, military education focused mainly on combat. Today, however, the world has changed—civilian technologies and knowledge play a crucial role in defence operations. Learning from Chulalongkorn University in areas such as economics, law, engineering, and technology will enable us to develop more comprehensive strategic and operational plans. Knowledge in innovation and AI from Chulalongkorn will enhance the military’s ability to analyze data, strategize, and respond effectively to emerging security threats.” He added that this partnership goes beyond academic training— it marks a shift in security thinking, expanding from purely military dimensions toward *intellectual security* that strengthens individuals, society, and the nation as a whole. 

Professor Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich, Assistant to the President of Chulalongkorn University, added that Chulalongkorn and the Ministry of Defence will co-develop educational programs to enhance the capabilities of defence personnel at all levels through the Chula MOOC platform. The programs will cover four key areas: digital technology, innovation and new-era careers, specialized industries, and health. The focus will be on practical learning applicable to military operations and sustainable national development, while integrating academic knowledge and research to create quality educational opportunities for the nation’s personnel. 

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