King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) held the closing ceremony for Phase 1 of the “Higher Education Network Expansion for the Career Development of Persons with Disabilities (HigherEd for PWD)” project. This initiative aims to enhance the employment potential of persons with disabilities through KMUTT’s Training-Internship Model and is financially supported by the Fund for Empowerment and Quality of Life Development for Persons with Disabilities. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the Auditorium, 3rd Floor, Multidisciplinary Learning Exchange (LX) Building, KMUTT.
The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), who presided over the closing ceremony. This project is a collaborative effort between MSDHS and KMUTT, the lead institution, along with five partner universities:
- King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL)
- Chiang Mai University (CMU)
- Prince of Songkla University (PSU)
- Khon Kaen University (KKU)
- Suan Dusit University (Suphanburi Campus)
Distinguished guests included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suvit Sae-Tia, President of KMUTT; Mr. Chokchai Wichianchaiya, Director-General of the Department of Empowerment and Quality of Life Development for Persons with Disabilities; Ms. Sunee Srisongatrakulert, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security; and representatives from the partner universities. They reported on the progress of Phase 1 – Phase 1A, which had 300 participants, with 253 successfully completing the program and securing employment.
The event featured exhibition booths showcasing the network’s achievements, a Robot Café operated by persons with disabilities, an Audition Booth for individuals with disabilities to obtain a Talent ID Card, and an open stage for showcasing their limitless potential. Additional activities included a workshop on crafting dried flowers and goat milk soap and a special panel discussion on “Next Steps: Phase 1 – Phase 2 of the Project”.
Building on the success of Phase 1 – Phase 1A, the next phase, Phase 1 – Phase 1B, will commence from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. This phase will expand nationwide with two additional institutions:
- Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon (Thewet Center)
- Phetchaburi Rajabhat University
The expansion aims to extend opportunities to persons with disabilities across Thailand, enhance their economic prospects, and sustainably improve their quality of life.
