On 5 April 2017, two special events were held for promoting the younger generation’s participation in the ASEAN community building process between MFU students and Chiang Rai citizens at Mae Fah Luang University.
Firstly, as 2017 marks an important turning point for ASEAN, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ASEAN Association-Thailand and Mae Fah Luang University cooperatively hosted activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of ASEAN entitled “ASEAN@50: For Now and Posterity” to celebrate and raise awareness of ASEAN’s half-century journey which began with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration on 8 August 1967.
MFU President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vanchai Sirichana stated in the welcoming speech that MFU could be considered an ASEAN University as we have welcomed students from ASEAN countries for many years. Moreover, MFU has intensively followed and put the concept of ASEAN community into practice by bringing students together into one community through related classes and activities. MFU is dedicated to encourage graduates to realize that they are ASEAN citizens who can work throughout ASEAN countries which is indeed a true achievement of the ASEAN community.
According to the Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand H.E. Mr. Chiasiri Anamarn, a seminar with various interesting topics was provided by ASEAN experts including Deputy Director-General of the Department of ASEAN Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Suriya Chindawongse; President of ASEAN Association-Thailand and Vice President for International Affairs at Rangsit University Dr. Chitriya Pinthong; Vice President for Research and Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty of Economics at Rangsit University Assit. Prof. Dr. Anusorn Tamajai and English Teacher and Host of a Variety Entertainment English Show Mr. Christopher Wright to help people in every generation, especially young people understand and appreciate the importance of harmony within ASEAN diversity, economic opportunities and political solidarity among the members of ASEAN, as well as to constructively participate in the ASEAN community building process.
In addition, the seminar was conducted in two languages: English and Thai in order to enhance the significance of English language as a working language of ASEAN. Also, young people would realize that communication without language barriers will create a strong foundation for ASEAN youth network.
Secondly, as part of the ASEAN Studies course from the School of Social Innovation, the ASEAN Fair 2017 was organized by MFU students led by the Student Union and Student Development Division. The main objective of the event was to promote ASEAN awareness and enhance students’ competency for being qualified ASEAN citizens by allowing students to actively participate in activities reflecting the cultures and traditions of ASEAN countries.
This year, both Thai and international students had the opportunity to prepare traditional delicacies, perform dances with national costumes, and present an exhibition under the theme ASEAN and Sustainable Development in ASEAN and nearby countries.
Overall, students and participants broadened their cross-cultural perspectives by submerging themselves in other cultures and acknowledging their roles as on of the nation’s valuable human resources in driving the ASEAN community with sustainability and stability.
