On September 8, 2023, Mrs. Sairoong Dhamacharoen, the Minister Counselor and representative of the Director of the Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs presided over at the closing ceremony of the Advanced Oral Communication Course (AOCC), Intake 17, 2023, at the Vayupak Hall, Centra by Centara Hotel, Government Complex Chaengwattana. Mrs. Sairoong delivered her congratulatory address and presented the certificates of achievement to the 16 participants who are government personnel at the expert level, its equivalent or higher. She praised the participants for their determination and commitment towards self-improvement and being able to professionally perform public speaking with more confidence. She also asked the participants to apply the skills, knowledge and various experiences acquired throughout the course in their upcoming training in New Zealand. On this occasion, Mr. Chakri Srichawana, former ambassador to Bern, was invited as a special speaker on the closing day of the AOCC course and presented certificates to the participants.

          The course has been divided into two modules; firstly, studying in class at DVIFA for 2 weeks and secondly attending a workshop in New Zealand for a further 2 weeks. During the first phase of the training from 28 August - 8 September 2023, the participants learned the principles, techniques as well as practice in various subjects, including academic presentations, advanced public speaking skills, expressing opinions at international conferences, a media training workshop and international dining etiquette. This assisted in the development of their English communication skills and significantly increased their confidence. In addition, it was a preparation for the second module: their attendance at the workshop at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, from 9 - 24 September 2023. Participants will learn and practice advanced communication skills and techniques in more challenging situations such as international conferences, during negotiations, and delivering impromptu speeches, along with study visits to key government and private agencies.

          Participants in the AOCC course have received continuous intensive training and practice from experienced lecturers, both in the country and abroad. These lecturers have both the knowledge and expertise in teaching advanced English communication skills. As a result, the participants’ skills have been enhanced, their knowledge expanded and they have significantly developed their oral communication skills. Attending the course also give the participants a great opportunity to build strong relationships and interpersonal cooperation and to strengthen networks between senior executives leading to inter-agency coordination benefits in the future.