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Walailak University (WU) has partnered with Zhongnan University of Economics and Law (ZUEL), China, to establish a Confucius Institute at Walailak University. Sponsored by the Chinese government, the institute aims to support Chinese language and culture learning for Walailak students and the public, as well as promote academic collaborations between the two institutions.

The event for signing the intention agreement to establish the institute was held at the Chorpradu Chamber, Walailak University Hospital, yesterday (June 20, 2024). It was signed by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthayawong, President of WU, and Professor Xu Diyu, Vice President of ZUEL. According to the collaboration framework, the Confucius Institute will be established in 2026.

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthayawong said the collaboration between Walailak University and Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in spreading knowledge and understanding about Thailand and China will greatly benefit both countries.

“In the future, China will be a dominant global player, shaping the future development of the global economy and serving as a major global market. And despite Thailand's size, it serves as the hub for the ASEAN region, making it an important market for China."

"Besides, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, where Walailak University is located, is an important agricultural production area in Thailand, especially known for producing durians and mangosteens, which are very popular among the Chinese,” he added.

Professor Xu Diyu expressed his gratitude for Walailak University's warm welcome. He said was delighted to visit Walailak University, and this was his first visit to Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. “Before visiting Walailak University, I had heard about the university's reputation in various areas, including being the number one green university in the South, its research capabilities, and its international collaborations. And when I arrived here, I was truly impressed.”

Professor Xu Diyu said that over the past few years, Thailand and China have consistently cooperated in various fields, including education, cultural exchange, and business. Therefore, the establishment of the Confucius Institute will support all these efforts. He also expressed his hope that in the future, besides establishing the Confucius Institute, both universities will have 2+2 programs.

On this occasion, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthayawong extended gratitude to ZUEL for their care of exchange students from WU. “We believe that the students, with their memorable experiences in China, will play a crucial role in fostering Thai-Chinese relations.”

"We also look forward to welcoming more Chinese students to Walailak University for exchanges. And we firmly believe that educational collaborations, including programs such as 2+2 or 3+1, will be mutually beneficial," said Professor Dr. Sombat.

Dr. Sirikhun Phanrangsee, Head of the Chinese Program, School of Education and Liberal Arts, said WU has been collaborating with ZUEL for a few years now. In December 2023, the universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support teaching, learning, and joint research, and a Memorandum of Agreement to promote student mobility.

"After the Confucius Institute is established, ZUEL will send Chinese lecturers to the institution. They will support Chinese language learning for the public and students. There will also be activities that promote Chinese culture, competitions for showcasing skills, and a test center for the Chinese Proficiency Test," she said.

Following the successful previous exchange program where 41 students from WU's Chinese major studied at ZUEL, the School of Education and Liberal Arts is planning to send a second group of students to ZUEL this October for a period of three months. The students will have the opportunity to enhance their Chinese skills, immerse themselves in the culture, and learn about doing business.

Photo by Teerapong Nooplod
Written by Settaboot Onphakdee
Division of Corporate Communication