In a rapidly evolving global education landscape, meaningful international partnerships play a crucial role in enriching academic excellence, broadening perspectives, and preparing graduates for an increasingly interconnected world. 

Image

Demonstrating its commitment to these aspirations, a delegation from the School of Mathematics, Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (SoMAQS) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently embarked on an academic visit to the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science at Mahidol University, Thailand. 

Held on 20 May 2026, the visit served as a platform for exchanging academic perspectives, strengthening international engagement, and exploring opportunities for future collaboration between the two institutions. 

The APU delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr Rajasegeran Ramasamy, Head of SoMAQS, accompanied by lecturers Dr Ang Chiew Way and Ms Zawatil Isyqi Mokhtar.

The programme featured two discussion sessions conducted throughout the day, bringing together academic leaders and representatives from both universities.

The morning session focused on academic dialogue with representatives from Mahidol University's Department of Mathematics, while the afternoon session expanded the conversation to include representatives from the Corporate Communication and International Relations Division alongside the Department of Mathematics.

Representing Mahidol University were Dr Rapee Boonplueang, Deputy Dean for Corporate Communication and International Relations; Dr Nattakorn Phewchean, Assistant Dean for Marketing Strategy and Deputy Chair of the Actuarial Science Programme; Dr Chanun Lewchalermvongs, Deputy Head of the Department of Mathematics; and Dr Wasin Padungwech and Dr Nathnarong Khajohnsaksumeth, Academic Staff of the Department of Mathematics.

Throughout the discussions, both institutions shared insights into their respective academic strengths. The exchange provided valuable opportunities to identify common areas of interest for mutual benefit.

Among the key topics discussed were staff and student mobility programmes, cultural exchange activities, collaborative research projects, specialised training workshops, inter-university competitions, and co-supervision opportunities for industry-based student projects. 

Both universities also explored the possibility of formalising future collaborations through the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which would provide a structured framework for sustained academic engagement.

The discussions highlighted the growing importance of international cooperation in higher education, particularly within disciplines such as mathematics, actuarial science and quantitative studies, where global knowledge exchange and diverse perspectives are increasingly valuable. 

Such collaborations enable academics to share best practices, strengthen research capabilities, and create richer learning experiences for students.

For SoMAQS, the visit reflects a continued commitment to expanding its international network and providing its academic community with opportunities to engage beyond national borders. 

Through strategic partnerships with reputable institutions, the School aims to enhance academic capacity, foster innovation, and ensure that its programmes remain globally relevant and industry-responsive.

Beyond the immediate discussions, the visit also laid the groundwork for future initiatives that could benefit both students and staff, contributing to the development of globally minded graduates who are equipped to thrive in an increasingly competitive and interconnected workforce.

Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Dr Rajasegeran said, “As an international university, we believe that building meaningful linkages with institutions such as Mahidol University strengthens our academic capacity and expands opportunities for collaboration beyond borders.” 

“These international engagements play an important role in equipping our students and staff with the global perspectives and experiences needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world,” he concluded.