On August 4th, 2025 – A group of delegation from Yunnan Normal University, China, visited Asian Institute of Technology and Belt and Road Research Center for a productive discussion focused on strengthening academic and research partnerships.


Led by Prof. Dr. Xu Rui, Vice President of Yunnan Normal University and a leading expert in renewable energy technology and climate change adaptation, the six-member delegation engaged in high-level discussions with AIT executives and faculty. Assoc. Prof. Liu Jiangtao, Vice Dean (School of Energy & Env. Sci.), Assoc. Prof. Xu Wumei, Prof. Liu Liping, Deputy Director (Graduate School), Dr. Liu Na and Dr. Yang Hongyan, were in the delegation. The visit underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to addressing critical challenges in sustainable development, energy, and environmental science.


Fostering Dialogue and Partnership
Prof. Manukid Parnichkun, Vice President for Academic and Research (VPAR) at AIT, formally welcomed the delegation, highlighting AIT’s longstanding role as a regional hub for advanced learning and research. Prof. Mokbul Morshed Ahmad, Head of DS Department, SERD, Dr. Ekbordin Winijkul, Head of WREE Department, SET , Dr. Wenchao Xue, Director, Belt and Road Research Center /Academic Chair EEM, SET, Ms. Sai Tang, Program Officer of Belt and Road Research Center, Ms. Mutita Wattanasuk, Research Associate, Belt and Road Research Center, were in the meeting with the delegation. Key topics explored in the meeting include joint research projects, joint academic programs, potential student and faculty exchange programs, opportunities for co-hosting workshops, seminars, or conferences, leveraging the belt and road research center as a platform for joint initiatives.


Looking Ahead
The visit marks a significant step in fostering a concrete partnership between Yunnan Normal University and AIT, facilitated through the Belt and Road Research Center. The shared research interests and commitment to sustainable development discussed today lay a strong foundation for future collaborative endeavors in education, research, and innovation.