Yotchanan Eyes Revamp of Fraser Skill Model to Adapt to Technology and Economic Changes; Confirms France Trip with PM to Boost Thai Research and Innovation

At 12:50 p.m. on May 19, 2025, at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotchanan Wongswat stated that he discussed the Fraser Skill project—an online learning platform for skill development—with the Prime Minister. This initiative, deemed crucial for Thailand, has already received cabinet approval. After more than two years of study by multiple committees, officials found that technological diversity has increased significantly, requiring adjustments to the model based on budgetary and economic considerations before resubmitting to the cabinet.

Yotchanan emphasized there are no problems with the adjustments, which reflect changing circumstances and will employ a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model involving both private and government sectors. Competitive bidding procedures and committee oversight will guide the process.

Regarding his upcoming France trip with the Prime Minister, Yotchanan noted they will examine technology initiatives following the signing of 20 memorandums of understanding with France covering human capital development across multiple universities. France excels in green energy transition and operates Station F, an innovative startup incubator housed in a repurposed railway station that attracts diverse companies. This collaboration will strengthen Thai-French relations.

Additionally, the two countries will cooperate on heritage science—applying scientific and technological methods to preserve and research cultural sites such as Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, enabling deeper research and maximizing the use of existing assets for future development.