British Council and MFU Explore Academic Collaboration and Co-Host the "Next Generation Thailand" Research Launch

On 28 August 2026, Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) welcomed a delegation from British Council Thailand, led by Ms. Sarah Rogerson, Country Director, to discuss educational collaboration and launch the "Next Generation Thailand" research report.

In the morning, Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President of MFU, met with the British Council delegation at the Vanchai Sirichana Building to explore opportunities for academic collaboration under the theme "Next Generation Thailand Research Launch and Exploring Possibilities for Academic Collaboration."

In the afternoon, MFU and the British Council co-hosted the “Next Generation Thailand Research Launch at the M for U Centre, M-Square Building. Prof. Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Vice President of MFU presided over the event and welcomed participants, including students and educators who joined both onsite and online via Zoom.

In her remarks, Prof. Dr. Sujittra highlighted that the world today stands at an "intersection" of rapid technological, environmental, and geopolitical change. She noted that Chiang Rai, as a culturally diverse border province, sits at this very same intersection, making it essential to build resilience among young people. 

She added that "Next Generation Thailand" is a flagship British Council research initiative that has surveyed youth perspectives in more than 20 countries worldwide, including the UK, Germany, Italy, Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Myanmar. The research enables educational institutions and policymakers to gain a deeper understanding of young people's thoughts, concerns, and aspirations, helping inform policies that directly address their needs. These insights align with MFU’s strategy of "Driving Well-being and a Sustainable Future" and Chiang Rai's vision as a "City of Education."

Dr. Matthew Sheader, Senior Justice and Youth Engagement Adviser at the British Council, emphasised that young Thais are coming of age during a period of unprecedented demographic, social, and economic change.

In his speech, Dr. Sheader highlighted converging factors such as shifting labour markets, urgent environmental challenges, and new forms of civic participation. Crucially, as Thailand's youth population shrinks, these profound challenges are being concentrated onto "fewer and fewer young shoulders."

To better understand this landscape, the British Council initiated the Next Generation Thailand research programme, surveying 2,000 young people aged 18 to 30 across the country. The initiative explored their aspirations, the obstacles they face, and how they wish to contribute to society. 

Dr. Sheader underscored the practical impact of this research by pointing to a neighbouring ASEAN country. In Indonesia, findings from the Next Generation research were successfully used to inform the government's 2025–2029 youth development strategy. By listening to the voices of 2,000 young Thais, the British Council hopes to drive similarly impactful, data-driven policy changes for Thailand's future.

Ms. Izzah Meyer, Next Generation Research Manager at the British Council presented key findings, highlighting strong national pride, optimism, and ambitions among Thai youth, alongside significant gaps in access to opportunities and meaningful participation. The report revealed concerns about outdated education, precarious employment, and barriers faced by marginalised groups, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. 

A panel discussion titled "Ready to Listen" followed, exploring youth perspectives and future challenges. Moderated by Ms. Chanya Tangsuk, Head of Higher Education Programmes at the British Council, the session brought togther youth activists and educators who emphasised the importance of co-creation, safe spaces, and genuine inclusion in policy-making and education.

The panel featured Dr. Witiya Pittungnapoo from Naresuan University; Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President of Mae Fah Luang University and lecturer in economics; Ms. Marisa Yapangku, President of the Tonkla Indigenous Children and Youth Network and Co-Founder of Risen Roots; and Ms. Thithiporn Charoensuk, an MFU law student and youth activist. 

MFU continues to strengthen its international academic networks to enhance long-term research capabilities and advance educational quality to international standards. The university remains committed to creating opportunities and providing spaces for young people to connect with policymakers, educators, employers, and other partners who will genuinely listen to, understand, and transform their voices into meaningful action.