Bangkok University captures student entrepreneurs' spirit
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Bangkok University captures student entrepreneurs' spirit

The new generation of Thai youth are no different to their global peers. They want to become entrepreneurs rather than work for private companies or government agencies.

Petch Osathanugrah, chairman of Bangkok University's executive board, says Thai young people want to become entrepreneurs like their global peers.

The thirst to run their own businesses will drive an increasing number of young people to study business administration, and Thai universities must respond to the growing demand from students, said Petch Osathanugrah, chairman of Bangkok University's executive board.

At Bangkok University, 22% of students who obtained bachelor's degrees in 2014 became entrepreneurs, up from 10% two years ago. The trend will continue to rise in the coming years.

In 2014, about 2,600 students graduated with bachelor's degrees from the university.

"It's a global trend that the new generation want to run their own business and be successful at a young age. Thai youth are no different and their parents also support them as well," Mr Petch said.

But not everybody can run a successful business. Those who really want to own a business and be successful must offer something different. 

Mathana Santiwat, president of Bangkok University, suggested that young people who want to set up a business must have passion, courage, vision and creativity in their DNA.

"We call them creative entrepreneurs. The university will try to instil entrepreneurship and real business values in all subjects. Moreover, students will also be encouraged to gain real business experience," she said.

Bangkok University has close ties with many big companies, so it will ask them to allow students to train with them.

Potential businesses that Bangkok University students are looking into include healthcare services for senior citizens, product design, and food and beverages with striking packaging.

Ms Mathana said some students already ran small businesses. Their products are famous on Instagram and Facebook.

Among them are Happypillsk, which sells cute and creative pillows; Buffet Production, a small ad production house; and Sweet Bite by Opal, which sells cookies and other bakery products.

Mr Petch said Bangkok University was aware of this entrepreneurial trend and was providing a new master's programme, which is a shortcut for many students to learn about business.

The university and Babson College in the US have jointly run the School of Entrepreneurship and Management since 2012. Under this collaboration, Babson College transfers knowledge and expertise through exchange programmes.

Bangkok University expects to produce quality entrepreneurs who are well equipped with business skills, creative minds and the know-how necessary to shine in the business world.

The first batch of 40 students is to graduate from the business programme this year.

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