King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) is dedicated to fostering sustained and inclusive economic growth, contributing to full and productive employment, and ensuring decent work for all—key components of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 8. As a leading institution in science, technology, and innovation, KMUTT is committed to aligning its educational and research initiatives with the broader goals of promoting sustainable economic growth and building a workforce that is capable of meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing global economy.

Driving Economic Growth Through Innovation and Research

KMUTT plays a central role in driving economic growth by focusing on research, innovation, and technology transfer. The university’s emphasis on applied research in fields like engineering, biotechnology, energy, and materials science directly contributes to the development of industries that are vital to the country’s economic growth. KMUTT’s Knowledge Exchange (KX) Building serves as a hub for innovation, connecting students, faculty, startups, and SMEs to collaborate on solving real-world problems, thereby accelerating the commercialization of research and fostering entrepreneurship.

By nurturing an entrepreneurial ecosystem, KMUTT encourages startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to innovate and grow, leading to the creation of new jobs and fostering economic diversification. The university’s commitment to fostering industry-academia partnerships ensures that research outcomes are translated into practical solutions that contribute to the economic development of both local and national industries.

Ensuring Full and Productive Employment for All

KMUTT recognizes that full and productive employment is a key driver of sustained economic growth. The university places a strong focus on preparing students for the workplace by equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to succeed in a competitive job market. KMUTT’s Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) program is one of the university’s flagship initiatives, ensuring that students gain practical experience and develop critical skills that align with the needs of the labor market. Through partnerships with industry leaders, KMUTT helps students bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world employment opportunities.

Furthermore, KMUTT actively supports lifelong learning and professional development programs that allow individuals to upskill and reskill throughout their careers. This approach ensures that the workforce remains adaptable, productive, and prepared for the challenges of an evolving global economy, in line with SDG Goal 8.

Promoting Decent Work for All

KMUTT is committed to promoting decent work that provides fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement. The university’s programs are designed to ensure that graduates not only gain technical expertise but also develop strong ethical standards, leadership skills, and a sense of social responsibility. This holistic approach prepares students to work in sustainable industries and contribute to creating decent jobs that are aligned with human rights and labor standards.

KMUTT also engages in community development and capacity building, working with local businesses and public sector organizations to improve the quality of work environments. By developing skills for the future, the university supports the creation of decent work opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, green technology, and sustainable manufacturing, which are crucial to a future-driven economy that is both prosperous and equitable.

Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth

In line with the principles of inclusivity and sustainability, KMUTT’s approach to economic development ensures that growth benefits all sectors of society. The university’s focus on diverse and inclusive education means that all students, regardless of their background, gender, or socio-economic status, have equal opportunities to pursue careers in innovative fields. KMUTT also strives to reduce barriers to employment and entrepreneurship by providing scholarships, mentorship programs, and access to networks that empower underrepresented groups to participate in the economy.

KMUTT is committed to advancing the green economy, promoting sustainable business practices, and creating new green jobs that contribute to environmental protection while driving economic growth. Through initiatives such as the Green Heart Program and its work in renewable energy, the university is equipping its students and the wider community with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to a sustainable future.

In 2024, KMUTT remains dedicated to SDG Goal 8, ensuring that its educational programs, research, and community engagement contribute to sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth. By focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship, decent work, and lifelong learning, KMUTT is preparing its students to become leaders in productive employment, while fostering economic opportunities that benefit society as a whole. The university’s commitment to building a skilled, adaptable, and ethical workforce ensures that its graduates play a critical role in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

8.2 EMPLOYMENT PRACTICE

9. Employment practice labour rights Recognise labour rights (freedom of association and collective bargaining) for all, including women and international staff 

King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) is committed to upholding internationally aligned labour rights across all employment categories. The university recognises and protects the freedom of association, the right to participate in collective bargaining, and the equal treatment of all employees Thai and international; women, men, and gender-diverse staff.

KMUTT ensures that its workplace policies meet national legal standards while promoting a fair, safe, and inclusive working environment. This commitment is reflected in the Human Resources Policy (B.E. 2565 / 2022), issued under the authority of the KMUTT Council and the Personnel Management Committee. The policy explicitly affirms the rights and protections necessary for employees to raise concerns, participate in labour-related processes, and engage in dialogue without fear of discrimination or retaliation.

1. Protection of Labour Rights for All Employees

KMUTT recognises labour rights as a fundamental part of fair employment. All staff academic, administrative, permanent, temporary, and international are guaranteed:

• Freedom of Association

Employees may form or join professional groups, committees, or associations relating to workplace well-being, academic matters, and employment conditions. KMUTT maintains open communication channels supporting staff participation in collective forums.

• Collective Bargaining and Consultation

Through official staff committees and HR consultation mechanisms, employees can voice concerns, propose improvements, and negotiate on workplace issues. This ensures structured participation in decision-making across university units.

• Equal Rights Regardless of Gender or Nationality

The HR policy requires that all labour-related rights, including association and bargaining processes, be applied equally to:

  • Women
  • Men
  • LGBTQ+ personnel
  • International/expatriate staff
  • Temporary and contract employees

2. Institutional Mechanisms Supporting Labour Rights

The HR Policy B.E. 2565 provides a systematic structure supporting transparency, accountability, and fairness. Key mechanisms include:

• Transparent Governance and Whistleblower Protection

The HR Policy states that personnel may provide information, raise concerns, or report misconduct safely. Complaints are investigated based on legitimacy and timeliness under oversight of the Ombudsman system.
This establishes a foundational guarantee that employees may speak, associate, and report issues without penalty.

• Distributed Management and Frontline Decision-Making

KMUTT decentralises certain HR decisions to ensure responsiveness to personnel needs. This empowers units to work collaboratively with their teams, enhancing employee representation and participation.

• Engagement With External Stakeholders Including Labour Agencies

KMUTT coordinates with relevant government bodies such as the Department of Employment (DOE) when hiring international staff and ensuring labour protections related to visas, contracts, and rights under Thai labour law.

• Non-Discrimination Policy

The university strictly prohibits discrimination in hiring, promotion, benefits, or participation based on gender, age, nationality, religion, disability, or socioeconomic background

3. Ensuring Safe Participation for Women and International Staff

KMUTT ensures that labour rights are meaningful and accessible to groups who historically face barriers:

For Women Staff:

  • Equal participation in committees and administrative decision-making
  • Systems protecting against harassment or discrimination
  • Maternity, paternity, and parental support policies
  • Fair wage structures and promotion criteria

For International Staff:

  • HR coordination with national labour authorities
  • Contracts aligned with Thai labour standards
  • Support systems related to work permits, visas, and welfare
  • Equal access to staff training, representation, and rights protections

4. HR Policy Framework Supporting Labour Rights

The Human Resources Policy B.E. 2565 (2022) outlines 15 core principles including:

  • Transparency, fairness, and accountability
  • Systematic management of labour concerns
  • Mechanisms for employee participation in organizational development
  • Welfare and compensation systems supporting staff well-being
  • Systems enabling personnel to balance work and personal life
  • HRM/HRD structures ensuring sustainable personnel management

These principles collectively affirm that labour rights including the right to union-like organization and negotiation are integral to KMUTT’s governance. KMUTT recognises labour rights, including the fundamental rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining, and guarantees these protections for all employees, including women and international staff.
The university’s HR governance framework ensures a transparent, fair, and participatory working environment supported by strong ethical standards, grievance mechanisms, and non-discrimination commitments in line with global decent-work principles.

King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
Starting salary rate for employees B.E. 2558 (2015)
Effective from October 1, 2025 onwards.

Groups / Qualificationsqualification1 May 241 May 2025
Academic Group (W)Doctoral Degree39,80042,800
 Master’s Degree30,10032,400
Academic Support GroupDoctoral Degree33,300-39,30035,800-41,800
 Master’s Degree25,800-28,00027,730-30,730
 Bachelor’s Degree22,000-24,00023,700-25,700
 Vocational Diploma16,150-18,15017,420-19,420
Management and Support GroupDoctoral Degree33,300-39,30035,800-41,800
 Master’s Degree25,800-28,00027,730-30,730
 Bachelor’s Degree22,000-24,00023,700-25,700
Management and Support Group (P)Below a Bachelor’s Degree10,52011,570