On 30 April 2026, the SEAMEO STEM-ED, along with other SEAMEO regional centres and partner networks, including SEAMEO INNOTECH, SEAMEO RECSAM, SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, and Caravan of Knowledge, marked a key milestone in advancing international collaboration through the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).

These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, and capacity development, while expanding opportunities for knowledge exchange and impactful programmes across the region and beyond.

MoU with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)

SEAMEO STEM-ED, along with other SEAMEO regional centres and partner networks formalised a Memorandum of Understanding with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), an international institute of higher learning recognised for its leadership in engineering, science, technology, and management education, as well as research and capacity building for sustainable development.

Representing AIT at the ceremony was AIT President Prof Pai-Chi Li, who joined SEAMEO Centre Directors and senior representatives from partner organisations. The SEAMEO delegation was led by Dr Kessara Amornvuthivorn, Centre Director of SEAMEO STEM-ED, together with Centre Directors and representatives from SEAMEO regional centres across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines, as well as partner organisations, including Caravan of Knowledge from Kazakhstan.

The collaboration brings together SEAMEO STEM-ED, along with SEAMEO INNOTECH, SEAMEO RECSAM, SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, and Caravan of Knowledge, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing STEM education, innovation, and professional capacity development across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Under this agreement, both parties will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including the design and implementation of capacity building programmes, joint delivery of short-course trainings, and the development of accredited STEM learning programmes. The partnership also supports joint research, policy dialogues, and the organisation of conferences and academic events.

Through this cooperation, SEAMEO and AIT aim to develop highly skilled professionals and strengthen institutional capacity, contributing to sustainable development and regional integration in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

MoU with the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA)

SEAMEO STEM-ED, along with other SEAMEO regional centres and partner networks also formalised a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), a leading public graduate institution in Thailand known for its expertise in management, public administration, and development studies.

Representing NIDA at the ceremony was Prof Tippawan Lorsuwannarat, Ph.D., President of NIDA, accompanied by members of the executive team, faculty, and representatives from the Office of International Affairs. The SEAMEO delegation was led by Dr Kessara Amornvuthivorn, Centre Director of SEAMEO STEM-ED, together with Centre Directors and representatives from SEAMEO regional centres across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines, as well as partner organisation, including Caravan of Knowledge from Kazakhstan.

The collaboration brings together SEAMEO STEM-ED, along with SEAMEO INNOTECH, SEAMEO RECSAM, SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, and Caravan of Knowledge, establishing a framework for cooperation in areas of mutual interest. These include joint research initiatives, capacity building programmes, and the co-development and delivery of short-course trainings and educational leadership programmes.

In addition, the partners will collaborate on conferences, seminars, and policy dialogues, as well as the development of joint proposals to further strengthen regional and international academic and research networks. Through this partnership, both parties aim to advance knowledge, innovation, and human resource development in support of sustainable development in education and society.

Advancing Regional and Global Impact

Together, these two MoUs represent a significant step forward in SEAMEO’s ongoing efforts to build strong, strategic partnerships with leading academic and research institutions. By leveraging the collective expertise of its regional centres and partners, SEAMEO continues to promote innovation, strengthen education systems, and support the development of a future-ready workforce.

SEAMEO STEM-ED extends its sincere appreciation to both AIT and NIDA for their valued partnership and collaboration. These joint efforts are expected to generate meaningful and lasting impact for education, research, and society at both regional and global levels.