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Walailak University and the Agricultural Research Development Agency (Public Organization) (ARDA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote funding for research and personnel development in the agricultural sector. The partnership aims to further translate research and innovation into practical applications while strengthening the capabilities of Thai farmers and the country’s agricultural industry.

On May 7, 2026, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, and Mr. Taweesak Thanadechopol, Executive Director of ARDA, jointly signed the MOU on the “Promotion and Support of Grants for Agricultural Research and Personnel Development” between ARDA and Walailak University. The agreement seeks to support agricultural research and human resource development while advancing research outputs and innovations toward practical implementation for national benefit.

Professor Dr. Vissanu Meeyoo, Deputy Director of the Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), attended the ceremony as a witness, alongside executives and staff members from both organizations.

Signing as witnesses were Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation of Walailak University, and Ms. Sirikorn Wiworawong, Deputy Director of ARDA. The signing ceremony was held at the Moklan Meeting Room, Professor Dr. Wichit Srisa-an Building, Walailak University.



Professor Dr. Sombat stated that the signing of the MoU reflects a shared commitment between Walailak University and ARDA to integrate their expertise and strengthen cooperation in driving the agricultural sector through research and innovation, which are key mechanisms for national development.

The collaboration focuses on four main objectives: 1) To promote, develop, and expand agricultural research projects toward practical utilization in policy, public, and commercial sectors. 2) To enhance the capabilities of agricultural researchers through knowledge exchange, experience sharing, and joint training and seminars. 3) To encourage the shared use of data, tools, equipment, and facilities to maximize research efficiency and outcomes. 4) To support the communication and dissemination of agricultural research information to farmers and entrepreneurs in order to strengthen the competitiveness of Thailand’s agricultural industry. 

“Walailak University is well equipped with qualified personnel, experts, and infrastructure. We are confident that this three-year collaboration will lead to tangible outcomes,” said Professor Dr. Sombat.



Mr. Taweesak remarked that Walailak University represents an important strategic partner in advancing agricultural research for health innovation in Thailand. He noted that ARDA and Walailak University previously signed an MOU on June 11, 2020, which concluded on June 10, 2023. Throughout that period, several significant initiatives were carried out under the collaboration.

These included the support of eight research projects at Walailak University with a total budget of 15.64 million baht, resulting in impactful research benefiting local communities. Key projects included the development of the RAINS for Thailand Food Valley initiative in Upper Southern Thailand and a project on restoring marine resources and upgrading blue swimming crab fisheries to international standards.

In addition, the partnership promoted personnel development through the Smart Agriculture Skills Development project, which systematically transferred modern agricultural research knowledge and innovations to local farmers and communities.

“The MOU signing today builds upon the success of the previous collaboration between ARDA and Walailak University. It also ensures the continuity of support for agricultural research funding, personnel development, and the translation of research into area-based and policy-level applications aligned with the missions of both organizations,” Mr. Taweesak said.

“This collaboration will contribute to the concrete integration of agricultural and health knowledge, foster agricultural innovations that meet national needs, and serve as a vital foundation for improving people’s quality of life as well as strengthening the long-term stability of Thailand’s agricultural and industrial sectors,” he added.















News and photos by Chonthicha Limpiti/ Translated by Settaboot Onphakdee, Division of Corporate Communications