Pathum Thani, Thailand – August 15, 2025 – The National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), in partnership with the Mekong–Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund (MKCF), officially launched the project “Enhancing Computational Skills for Students in Mekong Countries and the Republic of Korea through Coding, IoTs, and AI Learning” at Thailand Science Park.
The initiative aims to equip middle and high school students, as well as their teachers, with essential digital skills in Coding, Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI)—technologies that are critical for the 21st-century workforce. Over two and a half years, the project will include the development of online learning modules, on-site teacher training workshops, and an innovation contest themed around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the Mekong River Basin.
Key objectives of the project include:
- Enhancing digital and technical skills among students and teachers in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Viet Nam, Thailand, and the Republic of Korea (ROK).
- Promoting STEM education and computational thinking through real-world SDG applications.
- Building capacity for future labor markets in the Mekong region and Korea.
- Establishing sustainable educational tools and networks through regional collaboration.
During the launch, Dr. Chalee Vorakulpipat, Director of Communication and Networks Research Group, NECTEC, underscored the project’s importance in preparing youth for the digital age. Mr. Madhurjya Kumar Dutta, Director of MKCF, congratulated the project team for their selection and emphasized the role of connectivity, shared knowledge, and inclusivity in ensuring project success across both urban and rural areas.
Key action points from the meeting included:
- Formation of a Project Advisory Committee (PAC) with representatives from ministries, schools, and technical experts to guide and monitor progress.
- Development of multilingual digital learning modules (Coding, IoT, and AI) available both online and onsite.
- Conducting a baseline study to assess current STEM education levels across the Mekong region.
- Realignment of project activities and budget based on recommendations from the launching meeting.
- Engagement with the private sector to explore opportunities for innovation and sustainability beyond the project phase.
This collaboration, supported by KAIST (ROK) and partners from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam, is designed to ensure broad regional impact. By training teachers as the primary beneficiaries, the project seeks to create a multiplier effect, reaching thousands of students and fostering a new generation of digitally skilled innovators.
