RTRDA and Mahidol University have formalized collaboration through Signing of Memorandum of Understanding, emphasizing their joint efforts towards the advancement of innovative railway technology.
On January 30, 2024, Rail Technology Research and Development Agency (Public Organization), or RTRDA, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Mahidol University, to foster innovation in the country's railway technology. The signing ceremony was graced by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chotchai Charoenngam, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Prof. Dr. Banchong Mahaisavariya, President of Mahidol University, serve as co-signatories. Witnessing this momentous occasion were distinguished representatives from both organizations, including Dr. Piang-or Laohavilai, a Committee Member, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanapat Wanichanon, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Mahidol University. Also in attendance were esteemed advisors from RTRDA, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nualnoi Treerat and Mr. Yannick Jacob, alongside administrators and faculty members from Mahidol University's Faculty of Engineering. This significant event took place at the Mahidol Learning Center, Room 217, Mahidol University, symbolizing a collaborative commitment to advancing railway technology in the country.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chotchai Charoenngam emphasized that advancing the country's rail system is a monumental endeavor, requiring concerted efforts from all sectors. Collaborative research areas are crucial to supporting the domestic industry's capacity for manufacturing parts and providing maintenance services, thereby reducing reliance on imports. Furthermore, encouraging the growth of the domestic industry to produce local content for the railway system, particularly spare parts essential for future maintenance demands, is paramount. Collaborating with renown educational institutions like Mahidol University marks a significant milestone in propelling Thailand's rail system development forward. This partnership catalyzes promoting academic excellence and the application of modern technology in the railway sector, aligning with the nation's development objectives. It underscores a collective commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Thailand's railway infrastructure.
Prof. Dr. Banchong Mahaisavariya also highlighted the significance of collaboration, deeming it a positive step towards promoting cooperation within the railway sector. He emphasized that this milestone represents a crucial initial stride towards advancing innovative railway technology in the country. Such progress is expected to yield substantial benefits in terms of economic, social, and environmental development, ultimately contributing to the realization of sustainable development goals in the future.
The signing of this memorandum of understanding shows up a shared objective for research and development of railway technology. It aims to accelerate the transfer and exchange of knowledge between departments and encourage collaboration in enhancing the capabilities of personnel from both agencies. This effort seeks to reinforce research and development in rail technology, representing a significant stride in propelling the advancement of Thailand's railway infrastructure. It serves as a gateway to opportunities that connect the economy and Thailand's industry to the global arena, addressing the imperatives of national development and elevating Thailand's railway industry to international prominence.