THE MEKONG INSTITUTE: PAVING THE WAY FOR A SMOOTH INTEGRATION TO AEC

The Mekong Institute (MI), with support from the New Zealand Aid Programme (NZAP), is conducting a Youth Camp on Modern Farming Systems from 2-29 July. The program, which combines theoretical and practical learning modules, brings together five of the most progressive local and multinational agri-businesses in Thailand and 39 selected students from four leading regional partner universities in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam (CLMV Countries). 

Through the program, the regions future agribusiness leaders will learn first-hand about the latest technology used in the production, processing and marketing of agricultural commodities in Thailand, equipping them with the necessary knowledge, ability, and skills to compete in the more open and dynamic marketplace presented by AEC 2015. In addition, participants will learn about important management issues and challenges critical to running a successful business. 

The program, made possible with the support of Betagro Group, Sriviroj Farm, Chiang Mai Fresh Milk Company, Raming Tea Company, and C.P. Group, will offer participants the chance for a short internship within the respective companies, cementing their new skills and knowledge with real practical application in the workplace. Importantly, the course will provide participants with the knowledge and understanding about how to transfer the new technology and methods to their respective countries. 

The 29-day training course will also foster new partnerships and relationships among the young leaders of the GMS, leading private companies and public bodies, providing a solid platform for future collaboration and cooperation. In the long-term such extended networks will promote enhanced regional cooperation and integration, leading to a more prosperous economic and social environment in the GMS. 

The program comes on the heels of multiple MOU signings between MI and partner companies, and coincides with MIs 15th year of service to regional cooperation and integration. The youth camp is guided by the mutual belief between MI and its partners that by preparing the GMS workforce primarily based in the agricultural sector with the human resources and capacity to take full-advantage of the increased opportunities for economic development, as well as the ability and knowledge to avoid the possible pitfalls and hurdles, presented by AEC a smoother and mutually advantageous transition into AEC will be achieved.

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Mrs. Guohua Liu

Director, Sustainable Energy & Environment (SEE) Department

Mrs. Liu Guohua is the Director of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Department at the Mekong Institute. Prior to this role, she worked in the Department of International Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, where she played a key role in shaping and implementing China’s cooperation strategies with UN development agencies. During this time, Mrs. Liu was actively involved in advancing initiatives related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on climate change and green development. Additionally, she contributed to the evaluation of projects funded by various Chinese initiatives, such as the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, etc.

In addition to her work in the Department of International Economic Affairs, Mrs. Liu has an extensive diplomatic background. She spent 7 years in the Department of African Affairs, followed by a 4-year tenure at the Chinese Embassy in Lao PDR, where she gained deep expertise in both Southeast Asian and African affairs. These diverse experiences have played a crucial role in shaping her approach to sustainable development and international collaboration, particularly in building regional partnerships and tackling global challenges like climate change.

She holds a Master’s degree in Economics, with a specialization in Finance, from the Central University of Finance and Economics, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, specializing in International Economics and Trade, from the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics.