Project News

(1) Exhibited at NST Fair

The project showcased VR gear and posters at the National Science and Technology Fair 2023 (NST Fair), which held from 11 to 20 August 2023. The NST Fair was organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) to promote science in Thailand. The Embassy of Japan in Thailand arranged the Japan Pavilion, where the project designed an exhibition booth. Many children on summer holiday visited the project booth and had the opportunity to experience VR goggle, allowing them to virtually walk along a street designed by computer graphics. At the opening ceremony on 11 August, governmental delegates such as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with the Minister of MHESI, visited the Japan Pavilion.

Children enjoying the VR experience

The visit of the governmental delegates

Project staff organised the exhibition

(2) ODA Evaluation

On 23 August 2023, a representative from the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT) at Thammasat University attended an interview with the Official Development Assistance (ODA) evaluation mission team, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan. The purpose of the ODA evaluation is to assess Japanese ODA to Thailand through an external third party, gathering insights into the effectiveness and lessons learned from these initiatives. This process aids MOFA in refining their ODA strategies. The project was chosen as one of the targeted ODA projects in Thailand. Associate Professor Dr Teerayut Horanont from SIIT participated in the interview, discussing various aspects of the project, such as its outlines, relevance and alignment with Thai policies, effectiveness, impact on ASEAN countries, and the implementation process. The findings from the evaluation will be compiled into a report, which will be made public through the MOFA website in the coming year.

Interview by ODA evaluation consultant team

Dr Teerayut introducing the project

Demonstrating the Digital Earth System

The evaluation team (left), Dr Teerayut and Mr Ando, project coordinator (right)