On 20 February 2025, Her Excellency Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, and His Excellency Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), jointly witnessed the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on academic cooperation between Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) and Souphanouvong University (SU) at the Santi Maitree Building, the Government House.
The agreement was signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President of Mae Fah Luang University, and Assoc. Prof. Vila Anolac, President of Souphanouvong University. The MOU aims to enhance student and staff exchanges, training programmes, and joint research initiatives, fostering academic excellence while strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The signing ceremony commemorated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Lao PDR, underscoring the deep and enduring friendship and collaboration between the two countries in various fields.
The President of Mae Fah Luang University also participated in the official launch of the 75th-anniversary commemorative logo and attended a luncheon with the leaders of both nations.
MFU and SU have maintained a strong academic partnership through continuous exchange programmes and collaborative activities. Notable initiatives include the ASEAN Youth Camp, where students from both universities engage in joint activities in Chiang Rai, Thailand, and Luang Prabang, Laos. The universities have also collaborated on academic projects, such as developing smart tourism signboards in Luang Prabang, a project led by MFU’s School of Applied Digital Technology.
Looking ahead, both universities plan to expand collaboration, particularly in northern Laos, by enhancing educational opportunities and professional training. Key initiatives include:
• Establishing a Health and Training Center to better equip medical personnel and nurses in providing healthcare services.
• Providing training in traditional medicine to preserve and develop expertise in the field.
These efforts align with MFU’s vision of fostering well-being and a sustainable future in the region.
