Chula Brings Global Perspectives on Innovation and Technology Transfer to the 6th President’s Distinguished Talk 

Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the CU Innovation Hub, organized the 6th President’s Distinguished Talk, titled “Advancing into the Future of Innovation and Technology Transfer through the Perspectives of Global Leaders.” The event took place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Ballroom of the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. 

Prof. Dr. Wilert Phuriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, delivered the opening remarks, followed by keynote lectures from two world-renowned experts in innovation and intellectual property: Mr. Marco M. Alemán from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Ms. Katharine Ku, former Executive Director of the Office of Technology Licensing at Stanford University. University executives, Ms. Auramon Supthaweethum, Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property, and numerous leaders and representatives from relevant organizations and agencies also attended the event. 

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stated: “A university’s role is not confined within its academic boundaries. It also includes fostering innovation and improving the quality of life for Thai people through innovation and technology. The purpose of innovation is to create impact, not merely to generate revenue. More importantly, innovation must enhance quality of life. Good innovation starts with innovators, and universities play a critical role in cultivating them. Innovators must always come before innovation.” 

Mr. Marco M. Alemán of WIPO—who has shaped policy and driven innovation ecosystems in over 30 countries by connecting the public sector, private sector, and academia—remarked: “Thailand has strong potential in research and development, with the private sector serving as the primary financial contributor. The country continues to excel in exporting high-tech products. The government should promote innovation as a key industry that drives national growth. However, the challenge lies in effectively linking science and talented personnel with the needs of industry. Universities play a vital role in bridging this gap and guiding the direction of national innovation to meet economic and social demands.” 

Following this, Ms. Katharine Ku, former Executive Director of the Office of Technology Licensing at Stanford University—who has over 27 years of experience in technology transfer and has driven innovations generating billions of dollars in economic value—stated, “Innovation is the cornerstone of economic prosperity. New technologies can foster sustainable growth. The innovation model known as the ‘Triple Helix’ consists of three closely interconnected elements: governments must support innovation through policy and resources; the private sector and industry must develop new products to bring to market; and universities must train students to become effective contributors to the innovation-driven economy while also advancing research that can be applied in industry.”