Bangkok:The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation is taking steps to upgrade the standards of Thai veterinarians to meet international levels, enhancing readiness to deal with emerging diseases.
According to Thai News Agency, Minister Yotsanulok has proposed a strategy to integrate efforts aimed at elevating the standards of the Thai veterinary profession to an international level. This initiative involves linking data to strengthen holistic health foundations, support food security, and prepare for emerging diseases.
Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, who serves as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, delivered a lecture titled "Directions for Integrating Higher Education Standards and Veterinary Professional Standards towards International Excellence" at the 15th Veterinary Council Annual Conference 2026. The conference, held at Sapphire 204-206, IMPACT Forum, Muang Thong Thani, was attended by key figures including Mr. Danuphorn Punnakanta, Assistant Minister of MHESI; Dr. Sriyada Palimapan, Advisor to the Minister of MHESI; as well as members of the Veterinary Council, university administrators, faculty, researchers, and students.
Professor Dr. Yoschanan emphasized the need for Thailand to elevate the standards of its veterinary profession and higher education. He highlighted the importance of utilizing expertise in veterinary medicine and animal health science to drive the country's new economic engine through interdisciplinary integration and advanced technology applications. These technologies include artificial intelligence, digital twins, genetic data and genomics, and microbiome systems, which are expected to connect research with the development of the One Health industry and expand into three key economic sectors Siam Silica, Siam Terra, and Siam Medica.
The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of building a strategic cooperation network to foster collaboration among leading universities, the private sector, and the capital market through a Holding Company Consortium model. This approach aims to facilitate the sharing of research information, startup development, and commercialization, thereby attracting foreign investors to partner in research and development. This initiative is seen as a pathway for Thai personnel and higher education institutions to become global leaders in innovation. Additionally, integrating data on animal health, the environment, and human health is essential to create a robust foundation for holistic healthcare, food security, and timely preparedness for emerging diseases.