University of Twente signs cooperation protocol with Thailand's science ministry

The University of Twente and Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) have signed a Protocol of Cooperation to strengthen collaboration in semiconductor education, research, innovation and workforce development.

The agreement was signed on 16 June 2026 during a visit by a high-level Thai delegation to the University of Twente, led by Professor Yodchanan Wongsawat, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The protocol was signed on behalf of the University of Twente by Vice President Machteld Roos.

Thailand is pursuing an ambitious national semiconductor strategy and is seeking international partnerships to support its goals. The country aims to train more than 80,000 professionals for the semiconductor sector by 2030. The University of Twente was identified as a key partner because of its strong expertise and research capabilities in semiconductor-related fields.

During the visit, representatives from MHESI and the University of Twente exchanged knowledge and explored opportunities for further collaboration. Discussions focused on semiconductor talent development, photonics, biosensors, advanced electronics and innovation ecosystems. Opportunities for student mobility, scholarship programmes and joint research projects were also discussed.

The signing of the protocol marks an important step towards a long-term partnership. As part of the agreement, Mahanakorn University of Technology (MUT) will play a key role as the main partner in developing and implementing joint activities. The University of Twente looks forward to working closely with MHESI, MUT and other Thai institutions to develop concrete initiatives in the years ahead.

This article was first published on 18 June by University of Twente.