Promoting Thai Language and Studies: A Collaborative Step Forward at Ohio University
On November 8, 2024, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in New York, led by Miss Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General of Thailand, accompanied by Miss Katesuda Thongna, Consul, and staff, joined the opening ceremony of the 2024 Council on Thai Studies (COTS) annual conference. This year’s event, hosted by Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, brought together over 150 participants from leading institutions across the United States and Thailand, including Northern Illinois University, The University of Wisconsin, Cornell University, Naresuan University, Ubon Ratchathani University, and Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.
The conference spotlighted academic discussions on the Thai language and Thai studies, fostering dialogue among professors, scholars, researchers, and students.
Advancing Thai-U.S. Relations Through Language and Culture
During the opening ceremony, Consul General Taphaopong expressed heartfelt gratitude to Ohio University and the conference organizers for their commitment to promoting Thai studies. She highlighted the critical role of the Thai language in strengthening Thailand-U.S. relations, enhancing mutual understanding, and deepening people-to-people connections.
Strengthening Academic Collaboration
Additionally, the Consul General and her delegation met with Mr. Matthew Ando, Dean of the College of Arts and Science, along with other executive members, including representatives from the Center for International Studies and the Office of Global Affairs, as well as the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Naresuan University. The discussions focused on fostering greater collaboration to promote Thai Studies and Thai language instruction at Ohio University.
As part of the visit, a collection of books about Thailand, supported by the Thai Foundation, was presented to the Vernon R. Alden Library, with plans to establish a “Thai Corner” in the library, further enriching resources for Thai language and cultural studies.
Later that evening, the Consul General engaged with international students in Ohio University’s Thai language program and Thai students studying at the university. The group shared insights on the significance of Thai language and Thai studies in academic and professional contexts, emphasizing their potential for broader applications in global careers.
Engaging with Students and Future Initiatives
Later that evening, the Consul General met with international students from Ohio University’s Thai language program and Thai students studying at the university. The dialogue centered on the academic importance of learning Thai and how it can be leveraged in professional settings.
Expanding Thai Language and Cultural Education
Recognizing the growing importance of Thai language and studies, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in New York has spearheaded efforts to promote their instruction across various levels. In 2024, the Consulate-General collaborated with Harvard University in February and Cornell University in September to explore advancing Thai language education in higher academia. Locally, initiatives have been supported at the Thai Cultural Center of New York State and Buddhist Sunday Schools at Thai temples in the Northeastern U.S.
This ongoing dedication ensures that Thai studies remain a bridge of cultural and academic exchange, fostering deeper connections between Thailand and the global community.
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