On 16 January 2020, Mr. Chainarong Keratiyutwong, Ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs presided over the opening ceremony of the 15th Training Programme for Students from Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces at the Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.  

                  This annual training focuses on various aspects of the country’s development with a view to enhancing knowledge and understanding among participants. Over the years, it has created opportunities for those who have joined the programme to share their perspectives and views with representatives from government and private sector as well as community groups.  It has also provided moral support and inspiration to dedicated students with high morals values and ethics from the southern border provinces.  

                 For this year, the programme runs during 15-28 January 2020. The 30 participants from 3 universities, namely Songkhla University, Fatoni University and Rajabhat University Yala will enjoy a wide range of activities.  Amongst other things, they will join briefings on Thailand’s foreign policy and strategy, Thailand’s relations with Muslim countries and the works of the Department of Consular Affairs and the Information Department.  Furthermore, they will visit the Sheikhul Islam Office of Thailand, Radio Thailand, the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand, the ASEAN Cultural Center, and Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.  They will also benefit from a 4-day English camp in Petchaburi where they will be able to practice their English with native speakers.