Describing the event as “historic,” Director of Office of External
Relations (OEXR), Mr. Shawn Kelly introduced seven students from AIT’s
three schools, who then shared their insight with the audience.
Participating students included Clara Elizaga (Philippines), Huno
Solomon Kofi Mensah (Ghana), Nikolai Bn (Germany), Adeel Tariq
(Pakistan), Piraya Lueprasitsakul (Thailand), Tharika Fernando (Sri
Lanka), and Wendy Wuyts (Belgium).
AIT President Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai described the event as a
“role reversal,” where students would talk while everyone else would
listen. He stated that the present education system was still based on
the classroom of the nineteenth century, adding that new initiatives
are required in the field of education.
Chairman of AIT’s Executive Committee, Dr. Sahas Bunditkul welcomed
the event stating that he was looking forward to listening from the
students.
Issues deliberated by participating students included qualities of a
global citizen, expectations of students, promoting innovation and
ingenuity, encouraging interdisciplinary competence and knowledge,
inculcating a better understanding of the host country, out of the box
classes, thinking about life after AIT, desire for better facilities at
AIT, need to upgrade campus infrastructure, increasing diversity among
instructors, and looking ahead at AIT’s future.
The AIT President welcomed the suggestions stating that the next
session would witness many changes. He stated that more work spaces
have been created for the students, and these facilities would be
opened soon. He also welcomed the suggestion for introducing an
orientation session for incoming students on Thailand. The AIT
President also elaborated on the plans to improve the landscaping at
AIT, including provision of a running track. Prof. Worsak mentioned
that the Institute is also working on new programs on leadership and
entrepreneurship, and is deliberating on the introduction of modular
courses.
