Thai students must brush up on their knowledge of Asean affairs ahead of economic integration next year, while Thai universities should work more closely with their regional neighbours, Thammasat University's rector said yesterday.
Speaking at the TU-Asean Forum on preparations for the Asean Economic Community (AEC), Somkit Lertpaithoon said Thai students need to build a better understanding of Asean, since the AEC is more than just a ceremonial event or an integration of regional governments.
"Thammasat University will adapt its curriculum, setting a core course in Asean Studies that all students must take," Mr Somkit said, adding that Thammasat will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with other Asean universities on various ways to cooperate.
"I have suggested that university executives sign an MoU with the top three universities in Asean to share all aspects of knowledge and promote student exchange projects," he said.
The Thammasat rector insisted the AEC, which will launch at the end of next year, is only the start of regional integration.
"Integration on Dec 31 next year is just the beginning," Mr Somkit said. "The former Asean secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan has said good understanding between people will be the success of the Asean community."
Busadee Santipitaks, deputy director-general of the Asean Affairs Department, said Thai students should study the languages of other Asean countries, along with English, which is the official language for AEC communication.
She urged universities to do more to encourage the learning of English and Asean languages.
"Knowledge of Asean languages and English among Thai students is quite low compared with neighbouring countries," she said.
Ms Busadee admitted education and language issues could cause Thailand problems when the AEC becomes a reality.
"Weak language competence could harm trade and investment for us if our workers cannot clearly communicate with their partners or customers," she said.
However, a Foreign Ministry representative said Thailand is on track for AEC integration, saying the country is 85% ready to be part of the community.