Gundam Engineering Power: Fostering Future Thai Engineers

Bangkok: Today, MCOT ESG Insight introduces a young man who dreams of increasing the number of skilled engineers in Thailand. He aims to bring practical education to primary school children in an engaging and accessible manner, hoping to inspire them towards a stable future career. That young man is Krip, or Mr. Akkarawat Lojanagosin, a 17-year-old student at Shrewsbury International School.

According to Thai News Agency, Krip is the initiator of the Gundam Engineering Power (GEP) project, a non-profit organization striving to enhance elementary school children's understanding of engineering and science. This initiative was born from Krip's observation that Thailand employs a significant number of foreign engineers, and his aspiration to see more Thai engineers contributing to the country's future.

Krip's inspiration began with his childhood interest in constructing Gundam or Gunpla model robots from Bandai. His curiosity about the mechanics of Gundam robot joints led him to research online, where he discovered that only one in five individuals skilled in mathematics and science is interested in becoming an engineer. This realization sparked the creation of the GEP project, which aims to inspire children to pursue science and engineering.

Krip chose to focus on elementary school children as they are at an age where they begin exploring the world with curiosity, showing interest in various toys, and learning quickly. He initially used familiar Gunpla models to engage the children through fun activities. Eventually, he transitioned to using 3D models, allowing students to participate in designing and building robots together.