Two university presidents shake hands across borders as October sunlight streams through the windows of UBU’s executive meeting room. You can feel the anticipation in the air—this isn’t just another diplomatic visit, but the beginning of something transformative for sustainable tourism in the Mekong region.
UBU Welcomes Champasack University to Strengthen Academic Collaboration
Catalyst
On October 24, 2025, Associate Professor Dr. Chutinun Prasitpuriprecha, President of Ubon Ratchathani University (UBU), together with the university’s executive team, warmly welcomed Dr. Phonesavanh Thepphasoulithone, President of Champasack University, Lao PDR, and her delegation on their official visit to UBU. The historic meeting unfolded at the Phibun Mangsahan Meeting Room, Office of the President Building 2.
Meanwhile, the visit emerged from a shared vision to enhance academic collaboration and knowledge exchange under the compelling theme “Sustainable Tourism and Community Engagement.” Both institutions recognized the urgent need to bridge educational resources across the Mekong subregion.
Rising Action
As the formal presentations began, faculty members and researchers from UBU unveiled their groundbreaking research works related to creative tourism and community-based development. The scope of their initiatives revealed the depth of UBU’s commitment to regional development:
- Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) Ubon Ratchathani
- Worth and Value Added for Local Candle Wisdom in Old Town, Ubon Ratchathani Province, through Creative Economy
- Local Economy Development and Local Consciousness in Ubon Ratchathani Old Town through Multicultural Significance
- Development of a Tourism Model for the Mekong Way of Life Cluster to Serve Senior Tourists in Ubon Ratchathani Province Linked to Southern Laos
Subsequently, these presentations showcased how sustainable tourism development could serve as a catalyst for economic growth while preserving cultural heritage. The research particularly emphasized community engagement strategies that honor local traditions.
Turning Point
This meeting marked a significant milestone in strengthening the academic partnership between the two institutions.
During the discussions, both presidents recognized the immense potential for cross-border collaboration. The alignment of research interests and shared commitment to sustainable development created an unprecedented opportunity for meaningful partnership in higher education.
Resolution
Ultimately, the successful meeting established a foundation for future collaborations in research and education. The partnership promises to promote sustainable and creative tourism development in the Mekong subregion while fostering long-term regional cooperation between Thailand and Laos.
As these two distinguished universities move forward together, their collaboration represents a powerful model for how international higher education partnerships can drive regional development. The focus on sustainable tourism and community engagement positions both institutions as leaders in addressing the complex challenges facing Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.
