Gauhati University and Thailand have explored new avenues for collaboration in higher education, research, information technology, culture, training, internships and academic exchange during an interaction with a senior Thai delegation in Guwahati.
The delegation was led by H.E. Mrs Urasa Mongkolnavin, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs under Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and included officials from the ministry as well as representatives of Thai universities.
Welcoming the delegation, Gauhati University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta highlighted the deep historical, cultural and linguistic ties linking Thailand, India and the Northeast. He said these shared connections provide a strong foundation for expanding academic partnerships and institutional cooperation.
Prof. Mahanta also underscored the historical and linguistic relationship between the Thai language and the ancient Tai-Ahom language, pointing to the university’s efforts to preserve and promote this shared heritage.
Referring to Thailand’s engagement with India through regional forums such as ASEAN, BIMSTEC, the East Asia Summit, Mekong-Ganga Cooperation and IORA, he expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral relations.
Speaking on the occasion, Urasa Mongkolnavin emphasized the potential for expanding the Thailand-India strategic partnership, particularly in education, tourism, culture, training programmes, internships and academic exchanges. She also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in information technology and higher education involving Indian institutions, including Gauhati University.
Discussions focused on student exchange programmes, faculty and researcher collaborations, internship opportunities and joint initiatives in higher education and information technology.
The interaction marks an important step towards strengthening academic and research engagement between Gauhati University and Thai institutions while building upon the longstanding historical and cultural connections shared by the two countries.
