30 September 2022 ─ Southeast Asian Minister of Education Organization Regional Centre for STEM Education (SEAMEO STEM-ED) and Bhavana Bodhigun Vocational College (BBVC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing and preparing future talents in Culinary Arts and Science through “STEM Career Academies” program.

STEM Career Academies is a professional career development program established to assist and equip the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge (in STEM education) ─ to strive for professional careers in the 21^st century.

BBVC is a vocational college located in Samui Island, Surat Thani Province, Thailand.  The college was established to assist underprivileged youth with the necessary skills and knowledge for professional careers. In addition, the college also provides students with food and accommodation. The courses BBVC offered comprised of foreign languages, hospitality, food and nutrition, accounting, and business computer ─ while also incorporating Buddhism philosophy and practices.

SEAMEO STEM-ED Centre Director, Dr. Pornpun Waitayangkoon highlighted how this collaboration between SEAMEO STEM-ED and BBVC will inspire and assist the youth with important skills to excel in today’s job market.

“This collaboration marks a great opportunity for all networking partners ─ to be part of the STEM Career Academies program that focuses on developing learners’ capabilities and inspiring them with future professional careers in STEM integrated and arts ─ as a response to dynamic society”, Dr. Waitayangkoon said.

The SEAMEO STEM-ED Centre Director also pointed out the implications of this collaboration in elevating the food industry for the city, as well as making Samui a global destination for foreign tourists.

Director of BBVC, Asst. Prof. Narong Buddhichiwin said the partnership with SEAMEO STEM-ED will elicit higher values for both college and the community. He further cited how SEAMEO STEM-ED has proven its determination in utilizing STEM education for all individuals (learners, educators, and the public).

“This (MoU) is considered to open doors to many opportunities for learners in professional careers. This marks the beginning of an everlasting constructive collaboration,” The Director of BBVC highlighted.    

The two organizations will provide courses, training, and workshops in healthcare and wellness, culinary arts and science, information technology, and smart agriculture. The collaboration is also supported by Junior Achievement Thailand (JAT) Foundation (a registered charitable organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy).