The practical use of visible light and zinc oxide nanorods for destroying bacterial water contamination has been successfully demonstrated by researchers at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). Nanorods grown on glass substrates and activated by solar energy have been found to be effective in killing both gram positive and gram negative bacteria – a finding that has immense possibilities for affordable and environmentally friendly water purification techniques.

A paper co-authored by Dr. Supattana Nirukkanaporn, an Energy field of study graduate, and her adviser Professor S. Kumar, coordinator, Energy field of study, School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD) has been chosen as the Outstanding Paper Award Winner at the Literati Network Awards for Excellence 2011.

The Chief Minister of Assam State, India, H.E. Tarun Gogoi, has expressed interest in collaborating with AIT to address a number of priority concerns for his state, particularly in the areas of education and sustainable socioeconomic development.

A delegation from Changwon National University (CNU) led by its President Prof. Seong Ho Park visited the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), and expressed its intent to partner with the Institute. The five-member strong delegation was impressed with AIT’s internationality, and was curious to know more about the diversity of AIT’s student body.

The two-hour student assembly on “Academics and Research at AIT” organized by the Center for Learning Innovation and Quality (CLIQ), which saw students voice their opinion on academic and research issues on 26 April 2011, concluded with the AIT President Prof. Said Irandoust not only appreciating student feedback, but also asking them to raise issues concerning academics at all forums, particularly in the classrooms.

Colorado State University (CSU) seeks greater American engagement with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), and is interested in developing programs where AIT and the United States can work together.

A five-year program involving 100 scholarships for staff and faculty members of Government of Aceh, Indonesia will be launched at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). The Government of Aceh will provide 75 per cent of tuition fellowships and transportation, living and other associated cost, while AIT will offer 25 per cent tuition fellowship.

Following a five-day visit by senior officials to the French overseas Department of Réunion Island, AIT signed a General Declaration of Understanding on 9 April 2011 between AIT, CIRAD and University of La Réunion, France.

The Open House organized by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) on 22 April 2011 witnessed participation from various prospective students from Bangkok and neighboring areas. With a desire to pursue academics in an international institute of higher learning like the AIT, prospective students, some of whom were accompanied by their parents, came to learn about the Institute.