Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Thailand and its networks, recently organized an intensive training program designed to enhance the professional experience of its Political Science students. The program featured a seminar titled “The Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) Election on February 1: Strengths, Problems, and Recommendations.”
Held on 3 July 2025, the seminar aimed to assess the success of the recent PAO election, a crucial step towards developing local governance for the direct benefit of the people and advancing the decentralization process, a key component of Thailand’s democratic system.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Somprin Niyomthai, Dean of the School of Political Science at STOU, presided over the opening ceremony. Ms. Napajaree Jiwanantaprawat, Senior Project Manager at KAS Thailand, delivered the opening remarks, outlining the event’s objectives.
Key activities included:
- A summary of a book analyzing the nationwide PAO chief and councilor elections on 1 February 2025, highlighting strengths, problems, and lessons learned for improving local administration. This was presented by Asst. Prof. Patawee Chotanan, a lecturer from the Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University.
- A panel discussion featuring politicians, including Mr. Sarayut Jailak from the People’s Party, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut from the Bhumjaithai Party, and Mr. Nattawut Saikua, an advisor to the Prime Minister. The discussion was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanasak Saijampha, Faculty Member from STOU’s School of Political Science.
- A seminar platform for extracting lessons from decentralization in Thailand through the perspectives of academics, civil society, politicians, and the general public. Attendees included faculty members, academics, professionals, and local administrators such as Prof. Emeritus Dr. Tanet Charoenmuang (local politics academic), Asst. Prof. Patawee Chotanan (Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University), Associate Professor Ekkarin Tuansiri (Faculty of Political Science, Prince of Songkla University), Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttakorn Vititanon (Faculty of Political Science, Chiang Mai University), and Miss Nitchapat Kitcharern (School of Political Science, STOU).
This seminar provided STOU Political Science students with direct experience, enhanced their knowledge and understanding, and allowed them to contribute their ideas, analyses, and valuable recommendations for the development and improvement of local governance and the country’s decentralization system. Professional experience enhancement training is a vital part of the curriculum for students at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), particularly for fields requiring practical training to develop relevant skills and knowledge. This training aims to prepare students before their professional internships or actual work placements, ensuring they meet quality standards upon graduation.
