September 12, 2025 – In a significant milestone for Thai higher education, Dr. Mullika Sungsanit from Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) has been appointed as the 16th President of ASEA-UNINET (Austria-Southeast Asia University Network). This appointment makes her the third Thai academic to hold this prestigious position since the network’s establishment in 1994.
Multidisciplinary Approach and Community Spirit
ASEA-UNINET’s scope encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from science and technology to medicine and humanities, emphasizing voluntary collaboration among member institutions. The network has cultivated what is affectionately known as the “ASEA-UNINET family,” which fosters lasting friendships, cultural exchange, and interdisciplinary partnerships that enrich both scientific advancement and human connections.
Opportunities for Thailand
Dr. Sungsanit’s presidency presents new opportunities for Thailand to gain greater visibility in international academic circles. The ASEA-UNINET network, which facilitates exchanges, research collaboration, and scholar development, will provide enhanced platforms for Thai universities to engage with European and Southeast Asian academic communities.
21st Plenary Meeting to be Held in Thailand
Following ASEA-UNINET tradition, the next Plenary Meeting will be hosted in the President’s home country. Consequently, the 21st ASEA-UNINET Plenary Meeting has been scheduled for 2027 and will take place in Khao Yai. The event will be hosted by SUT in collaboration with the Thai ASEA-UNINET university team and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI).
This prestigious gathering will bring together academic leaders, researchers, and students from across the network’s member institutions, further strengthening Thailand’s position as a hub for international academic cooperation in the region.
For more information about ASEA-UNINET, visit https://asea-uninet.org/
About ASEA-UNINET
ASEA-UNINET, founded in 1994 and led by Austria, is a dynamic network that connects over 92 universities from 14 countries across Europe and Southeast Asia. The network serves as a vital bridge for advancing international education and research collaboration between the two regions.
The organization demonstrates its commitment to academic excellence by supporting more than 80 projects annually, establishing joint research laboratories, and providing PhD and Postdoctoral scholarships. Additionally, ASEA-UNINET regularly hosts workshops, conferences, and academic schools that facilitate knowledge exchange and professional development.