WRITER: ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY OF THAILAND
SHANGHAI, May 14, 2025 — Assumption University of Thailand (AU) strengthened its commitment to global academic collaboration with a strategic visit to the SAIC Motor Training Center in Shanghai. The focus of the visit was on new energy vehicle (NEV) technology, intelligent connectivity, and talent development to support the region’s evolving mobility sector.
The AU delegation was led by Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President of AU, and included Vice President for Educational Innovation and Graduate Studies, Asst. Prof. Dr. Kitti Phothikitti and Assistant Vice President for Educational Innovation and Graduate Studies and Director, Thai – Chinese International College, Dr. Gao Li. They were welcomed by Mr. Zhang Dongchi, Director of the SAIC Training Center, and Mr. Hua Guoqi, Dean of the Automotive College.
The program included a tour of SAIC’s Intelligent Connected Vehicle Training Base. The delegation observed state-of-the-art facilities in autonomous driving simulation and new energy battery maintenance, showcasing China’s rapid transition toward intelligent and green mobility solutions.
Discussions centered on aligning industrial expertise with educational advancement, particularly through joint curriculum development, faculty exchange, and technical training initiatives. Both institutions expressed mutual interest in fostering academic-industry partnerships that can respond to the needs of a fast-changing automotive landscape.
The visit concluded with an agreement to co-develop the Sino-Thai New Energy Vehicle Technician Joint Training Program, scheduled to launch in 2026. The two sides also explored opportunities to establish overseas training bases to support long-term collaboration and workforce development.
This forward-looking partnership is expected to accelerate innovation, support sustainability, and empower future leaders in Southeast Asia’s automotive industry.
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