Shanghai, China — April 22, 2026 — The University of Phayao (UP), led by Associate Professor Supakorn Pongbangpho, Ph.D.President, University of Phayao, together with Professor Samur Thanoi, Ph.D. Vice President for Research and Innovation and a delegation of university executives, visited Shanghai Open University (SOU) to formalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Jia Wei, President of SOU, and his executive team in Shanghai.
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This MOU marks a significant step in advancing academic collaboration between the two institutions, with a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary integration to drive sustainable development for both universities and their communities. The partnership focuses on four key areas:
• Liberal Arts and Languages: Enhancing curriculum development and promoting cultural exchange
• Business Administration and Communication Arts: Advancing collaboration in business innovation
• Energy and Environment: Strengthening research exchange and sustainable environmental practices
• Learning City Development: Building human capital to support lifelong learning ecosystems
In addition, the collaboration introduces the “AI Plus” approach, integrating artificial intelligence into key disciplines relevant to modern society. This includes AI applications in elderly nursing care to improve healthcare quality, as well as the integration of AI with liberal arts, tourism, and environmental studies to generate new knowledge and future-ready workforce development.
Beyond academic cooperation, both institutions have agreed to promote student exchange programs, offering students valuable international learning experiences. The initiative will also leverage SOU’s strengths in smart learning systems, as well as its distinguished programs in music and arts, to foster holistic skill development.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to nurturing global citizens and equipping future generations with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.