Teesside University welcomed a delegation from Thammasat University in Thailand

Teesside University recently welcomed a delegation of senior academics from Thammasat University in Thailand to establish a formal collaboration between the two institutions. The visit aimed to promote joint initiatives in transnational education (TNE), facilitate staff and student exchanges, foster collaborative research, and knowledge sharing.

Thammasat University and Teesside University established a partnership in October 2024 to collaborate on transnational education (TNE) and launch a postgraduate programme in Global Health and Sustainability. The partnership will also facilitate exchanges for both staff and students and encourage joint research initiatives. The research focus of this partnership is on the multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the ASEAN region, incorporating health impact assessments into health systems.

Associate Professor Sirima Mongkolsomlit, Thammasat University commented: ‘This partnership with Teesside University marks a meaningful advancement in Thammasat University’s international engagement. It provides a valuable platform for collaborative teaching, impactful research, and the exchange of ideas across cultures. Together, we are building academic bridges that not only enrich our institutions but also contribute to addressing critical health and sustainability challenges.’

The delegation visit was hosted by Dr Lawrence Nnyanzi, Programme Leader Doctorate in Public Health, Dr Fiona McGregor, Principal Lecturer (International), and Dr Kevin Thomas, Associate Dean (International), School of Health & Life Sciences. The visit included a tour of the University facilities and a formal event where a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to officially establish the partnership between Thammasat University and Teesside University.

Dr Warren Harrison, Pro Vice-Chancellor (International), Teesside University said: ‘This partnership with Thammasat University reflects Teesside University’s commitment to our Global Strategy, which is focused on shaping students into confident global citizens. Through international collaboration, mobility, and exposure to diverse academic and cultural environments, we are equipping our students with the skills, perspectives, and experiences essential for thriving in today’s interconnected world of work.’

To date, three joint funding bids have been developed to support the partnership objectives alongside the co-supervision of a PhD student specialising in developing a model to address occupational health of waste workers in Kabin Buri district in Thailand. Looking ahead, the partnership is preparing to facilitate student mobility, with plans underway for students from Teesside University to visit Thammasat University in Spring 2026, further strengthening intercultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Associate Professor Sirima Mongkolsomlit, Thammasat University commented: ‘Together, we are building academic bridges that not only enrich our institutions but also contribute to addressing critical health and sustainability challenges in the ASEAN region and beyond.’

Dr Lawrence Achilles Nnyanzi, Academic Lead, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University said: ‘This partnership between Teesside University and Thammasat University exemplifies the power of international collaboration in higher education. It opens exciting opportunities for joint research, student exchange, and the development of globally relevant programmes that address real-world challenges such as NCD multimorbidity. We are proud to work alongside such a prestigious institution to drive innovation and impact across borders.’

Dr Kevin Thomas, Associate Dean (International), School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University commented. ‘Our collaboration with Thammasat University is a significant step in advancing Teesside University’s international strategy. It reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful global partnerships that enhance academic excellence, promote knowledge exchange, and contribute to addressing pressing global health challenges. This partnership not only strengthens our international footprint but also creates transformative opportunities for our students, staff, and research communities.’

Dr Fiona McGregor, Principal Lecturer (International), School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University added: ‘This partnership with Thammasat University brings exciting opportunities for the School of Health & Life Sciences, particularly in advancing global health education and collaborative research. It enables our staff and students to engage with international perspectives, co-develop solutions to shared health challenges, and build meaningful academic relationships that enrich our teaching, learning, and impact.’

Thammasat University is a world-class institution based in Thailand, celebrated for exceptional standards in shaping graduates, sharing knowledge, and tackling the country’s challenges. The university is committed to upholding values and making a meaningful impact on society.

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