The Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession (IRDTP) for ASEAN, Khon Kaen University gratefully reached out to Mr. Meechai Weerawaitaya who is the licensee of Meechai Pattana School, president of Population and Community Development Association, Chairman of Meechai Veeravaitaya Foundation, and former minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Thailand to give this special lecture.

   April 26, 2023 (Thailand time 9.00 to 12.00 hours) – The IRDTP for ASEAN managed to invite a local community leader Mr. Meechai Weerawaitaya who has a strong understanding of community development and has actively worked towards strengthening communities. This event offered a hybrid format that combined both online (167 participants) and on-site (68 participants) options to maximize accessibility and reach a wider audience of as many as 233 participants. Vice President for Education and Academic Services and Acting Director of the IRDTP for ASEAN delivered his opening remarks and introduced the invited speaker Mr. Meechai Weerawaitaya.

   Mr. Meechai Weerawaitaya emphasized several key aspects that the schools can take their roles in strengthening communities. Schools should play their role in providing education beyond academics in fostering social cohesion, personal development, and community engagement. By providing a well-rounded education, schools help to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world and become active participants in their communities. Schools can embrace partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, and other stakeholders to create mutually beneficial collaborations. These partnerships offer students opportunities for experiential learning, mentoring, and exposure to diverse perspectives. Schools can tap into local resources, expertise, and support systems, enriching the educational experience, and strengthening community ties by connecting with the wider community. Finally, schools can expand their role beyond the traditional education system to offer lifelong learning opportunities to individuals of all ages.