A visit from Romania’s ambassador opened discussions on fresh opportunities for international education, cultural exchange, and closer cooperation with Assumption University of Thailand (AU).
Her Excellency Daniela Bazavan, Ambassador of Romania to Thailand, visited AU’s Hua Mak Campus on October 21, 2026, where she met with University leaders to explore academic and cultural partnerships beginning in 2027.
The Ambassador was warmly received by Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President of Assumption University, together with Asst. Prof. Dr. Kitti Phothikitti,Vice President for Educational Innovation and Graduate Studies, fellow Vice Presidents, and faculty members.
Discussions focused on creating new opportunities for students and academics from both countries through educational exchanges, visiting scholars, and collaborative activities. The meeting also highlighted the role universities could play in bringing people together through shared learning and cultural experiences.
One particularly inviting proposal was an opportunity for the Embassy of Romania to introduce Romanian culture, traditions, and cuisine to the AU community through a future event at the University’s Suvarnabhumi Campus. Such an occasion would offer students and faculty a taste of Romania while encouraging greater appreciation of the country’s rich European heritage.
The Ambassador was also encouraged to support opportunities for Romanian students, researchers, and scholars to participate in academic exchanges and educational activities at AU.
A Friendship Built Through Education
The visit also brought renewed attention to a longstanding academic connection between Romania and Assumption University through Dr. Ioan Voicu, a former Romanian Ambassador to Thailand and distinguished international law scholar.
Dr. Voicu, who received an honorary doctorate from AU in 1998, subsequently served as a Visiting Professor at the University from 2000 until 2019. His career in diplomacy and higher education included service as Romania’s alternate representative to the United Nations Security Council.
During the meeting, Her Excellency shared news of Dr. Voicu and his life in Bucharest following his retirement from AU, providing a personal reminder of the relationships that have connected the University and Romania over many years.
The meeting concluded with a shared interest in developing the proposals discussed, including academic mobility, cultural programs, and opportunities for Romanian scholars and students to engage with the AU community.
As Assumption University continued to expand its international academic relationships, the Ambassador’s visit offered a promising starting point for closer educational and cultural cooperation between Romania and Thailand in 2027 and beyond.
WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY
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