Bangkok: Launching a new phase of the Urban Agriculture Center, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, organized a kick-off event for the NRCT Urban Agriculture Center 2026-2027, themed "Urban Wellness through Research and Innovation for Sustainable Food Security". The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Danuphorn Punnakant, Assistant Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, with participation from researchers, NRCT executives, and members of the urban community network.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Danuphorn Punnakanta emphasized the establishment of the MHESI Action Plan 2026-2030 as a strategic framework to drive science, technology, and innovation. This plan is aligned with the 'Wellness Thailand' policy, aiming to transform Thailand into a health and medical hub by leveraging its strengths in food, health, and herbal medicine, alongside advanced technology and innovation. The NRCT Urban Agricultural Center exemplifies policy implementation by integrating knowledge, research, and innovation with grassroots economic development to strengthen food security and create sustainable added value.
Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong, Director of the NRCT, highlighted the past operations of the Urban Agriculture Center during 2022-2025, which focused on transforming urban spaces into learning centers and community food production facilities. This kick-off marks a new development phase, focusing on scaling up innovations for practical application, particularly with smart agricultural technologies like AI and Big Data. From 2026-2027, the plan includes developing a collaborative network platform that empowers public participation to build a sustainable food security ecosystem.
The event also featured a certificate presentation for ten "Urban Agriculture Entrepreneurs of the NRCT" and plaques for four "NRCT Urban Agriculture Networks." An exhibition titled "Urban Agriculture Center" showcased various projects, including those focusing on production technology development and agricultural system design, emphasizing the application of research knowledge combined with local wisdom.
Mr. Danuphorn Punnakant honored the event with a visit to the 'NRCT Urban Agriculture Center,' accompanied by Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong. The event included training sessions on network development and innovation in urban agriculture, with experts sharing knowledge to enhance network capacity for sustainable development. Topics covered included building urban agriculture networks, upgrading agricultural products, and communication strategies for public relations.
The NRCT aims to use "Urban Agriculture based on the BCG Model" as a mechanism for balanced development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. It seeks to strengthen the urban agriculture network, providing opportunities for all sectors to participate in creating cities with good health, safe food access, and a sustainable quality of life through the integration of knowledge, research, and innovation for practical application.