RTRDA organized a workshop titled “R&D Impact Evaluation”

The Railway Technology Research and Development Agency (Public Organization) organized an "R&D Impact Evaluation No. 1-2 Workshop" from June 17-18, 2024, at the Parichat Room, 3rd floor, Golden Tulip Sovereign Hotel, Bangkok.

The workshop on "Assessing the Impact of Research and Development" aimed to enhance human resource development and improve R&D quality in railway technology in Thailand. Dr. Piang-or Loahavilai, a committee member of RTRDA, presided over the opening ceremony, with participation from the RTRDA advisory team and management, including Mr. Watcharachan Sirisuwannathash, Mrs. Jaruwan Ruangswadipong, and Dr. Sathian Charoenrien. The workshop mainly targeted academic personnel and working groups from RTRDA and leading Thai universities, including Mahidol University, Chiang Mai University, Kasetsart University, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Khon Kaen University, Thammasat University, and King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok. Approximately 40 people attended the event. The event featured expert speakers led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kampanat Vijitsrikamol from Kasetsart University's Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, which is one of the cooperative partners of RTRDA. The speakers provided valuable insights on R&D impact evaluation with several key highlights aimed at enhancing the understanding and application of evaluating research impact:

1. Lecture on "Principles of Assessing Research Impact" by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suwanna Praneetvatakul

2. Lecture on "Economic Valuation and Benefit-Cost Analysis" by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kampanat Vijitsrikamol

3. Lecture on "Concept of Social and Environmental Valuation" by Asst. Prof. Dr. Nopasom Sinphurmsukskul

4. Introduction to the use of the Impact Pathway Template and Excel for calculating impact

5. Presentation and discussion on Legislation, Demand, Local Content, and Technology plans by RTRDA

These sessions emphasized the importance of evaluating research and development to measure project success and value. Effective evaluation not only communicates the research's significance to the public and stakeholders but also informs strategic planning, guides resource allocation, and enhances the communication of research value. By applying this training, RTRDA researchers can assess project impacts across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. This holistic approach is crucial for advancing the long-term development of Thailand's rail system industry, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation.

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