Synergizing University and Research Funding: Suan Sunandha–PMU A Map Out an Area-Based Development Agenda

On 19 November 2025, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University convened a coordination meeting with the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMU A) to integrate research directions, funding mechanisms, and an area-based operational framework toward tangible outcomes. The meeting took place at the Office of the President, 5th Floor.

Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University was represented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chutikarn Sriviboon, President; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rosjana Chandhasa, Vice President for Research and Development; Asst. Prof. Dr. Morakot Worachairungreung, Director of the Institute for Research and Development; Asst. Prof. Dr. Wanchak Noijan, Dean of the Graduate School; Asst. Prof. Dr. Wat Ploysri, Vice-Director for Academic Services; Atidtaya Buasri, Vice-Director of Intellectual Property Management and Business Incubation; Asst. Prof. Nayot Kulpanich, Vice-Director for Research and Dissemination; and Dr. Duangjai Limsaksri, Vice-Director for Administration.

PMU A was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Poon Thiengburanathum, Vice President, Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMU A), accompanied by the working team. Both sides exchanged policy directions and practical approaches aimed at strengthening area-based research management and translating research into measurable benefits for local communities.

Key discussion points included co-creation of joint research agendas grounded in area-based evidence, linking funding instruments and resources to scale solutions in target communities, defining performance indicators (KPI/Outcome), and establishing short-, medium-, and long-term roadmaps for systematic monitoring and evaluation. The parties agreed to set up a joint coordination task force and a shared implementation timeline to accelerate the uptake of research for concrete, area-level impact.

This collaboration aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals by advancing SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through university–funding-agency cooperation and joint road-mapping, driving SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) via evidence-based research and innovation deployment, and supporting SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by improving community well-being, fostering a knowledge-based economy, and expanding quality employment opportunities in target areas.