The Thailand University Art and Culture Network held the 4th National and 14th International Conference on Arts and Culture (ICAC2024) with the theme of “Soft Power – Arts and Culture in Creative Economy” on 17 and 18 February 2024, at Buddha Wichalai Building, Phranakhon Rajabhat University, Bangkok.
On 17 February 2024, Mr. Permsuk Sutchaphiwat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, presided over the opening ceremony and gave a keynote speech on “MHESI’s Role in Driving Thailand’s Soft Power.”
The conference featured various academic and cultural activities including a conference session on “– Arts and Culture in Creative Economy,” presentations of research and academic works of both faculty members and students, exhibitions of arts, culture and local wisdom in the concept of “Khong Dee Ban Chan” which means My Hometown’s Charms.
The participating institutions and agencies concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a network for cultural restoration, conservation, dissemination and enhancement, uniting people and resources. Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, signed the MOU with 14 partners including Office of Contemporary Art (Ministry of Culture), Department of Cultural Promotion, Community Development Department (Ministry of Interior), Burapha University, Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University, Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University, Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University, Phetchaburi Rajabhat University, Phranakhon Rajabhat University, Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Rambhai Barni Rajabhat University, Thepsatri Rajabhat University, and Suratthani Rajabhat University.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanoknart Boonwatthanakul, Director of the Office of Continuing Education keenly joined the conference as a commentator for the research presentation. The university also showcased the Art of Thai Vegetable and Fruit Carving by Chef Nikom Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya or Chef Kob from the STOU Seminar and Training Center at the “Khong Dee Ban Chan” Exhibition.
