On 23rd September 2022, Ms Thitiporn Chirasawadi, Director of the Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs (DVIFA) assigned Ms Piyaporn Juntarat, a Professional level Human Resource Officer, to preside over the closing ceremony of the Intensive Language Course (ILC) Batch 2/2022. This 180-hour, 6-week course ran from 15th August - 23rd September 2022. In total, there were 16 participants from 9 government agencies.

               During her closing remarks, Ms. Piyaporn congratulated the 16 participants and strongly urged all of them to continue practicing and making good use of their English language skills. Ms. Piyaporn also remarked that practice would help boost their confidence and enable them to perform their duties better. A good command of English plays a significant role in government affairs.

               This Intensive Language Course was designed to help the participants to develop their English Language skills, in particular: listening, reading, speaking, and writing as well as the skills essential for their profession, such as socializing and public speaking. The training course provided a blended learning approach comprised mostly of onsite training and where the situation required, online training. In addition to the language classes, the participants have improved their cultural awareness and have increased their knowledge about current global affairs. They are now better equipped to use and access online tools and resources to assist them in improving their English outside of the classroom.

               During their last week, all of the participants have participated in the ILC workshop “Promoting Thailand’s Soft Power” which was aimed at using the English skills and knowledge they have learned, building teamwork skills through communication and to develop public speaking skills. In addition, the workshop encouraged them to exchange ideas and share their perspectives, experiences and working knowledge in various areas. Presentations for products or services such as Thai Massage, Thai Herbs, Thai Desserts, and Thai Tattoos and Beliefs were showcased at the simulated exhibition “Thailand’s Soft Power Road Show and Presentations”.

               In addition to language training, this course helped to create new bonds of friendship, and to expand their network of contacts in order to promote future cooperation amongst their organizations.