Space Park Leicester helps strengthen UK’s relationship with Thailand
Space Park Leicester has supported the Thailand government in its ambition to ensure its young people have the skills they need to thrive in a digital economy.
The University of Leicester’s £100 million research, innovation and teaching hub for space-related high-tech companies and researchers welcomed a delegation of 50 students as part of the Royal Thai Government’s One District One Scholarship programme this month.
During the students’ visit, Space Park Leicester also welcomed representatives from Thailand’s Research University Network, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Kasetsart University and the Thai Chamber of Commerce.
Space Park Leicester Education and Outreach Officer Josh Barker said: “We were thrilled when we discovered the students from Thailand had chosen Leicester as their destination for the One District One Scholarship programme.
“It was an honour to welcome them and to show both delegations our excellent facilities which are home to a collaborative community which is at the forefront of the UK space sector.
“We were privileged to show them how we are pushing the boundaries of space exploration, satellite technology and Earth observation to benefit society and the economy.”
The students’ stay in Leicester ended with a celebration event, which saw the Thailand Ambassador to the UK, Nadhavathna Krishnamra make a special appearance.
He told the students: “Your participation at the University of Leicester, including visits to Space Park Leicester and various partner organisations, provided an excellent opportunity to broaden your knowledge and experience in these key areas.
“You are not only the future of Thailand, but also important bridges between our two nations. I hope that the experiences, friendships, and memories you have made here will inspire you to contribute to your communities, your country, and to the continued friendship between Thailand and the United Kingdom.”
The One District One Scholarship programme also included a series of study modules delivered by academics from the University of Leicester’s School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences who are experts in areas including AI and machine learning, mathematics and computational modelling, trustworthy autonomous systems and methods of AI and data analytics. The students also took part in modules run by the University’s School of Business and spent a day at the London headquarters of CGI, one of the world’s largest IT and business consulting services firms.
Other activities included interactive masterclasses at the National Space Centre, attendance at a Leicester Riders game, and a visit to the King Richard III Visitor Centre.
The One District One Scholarship programme was also supported by Leicester City Football Club.
To explore Space Park Leicester partnerships, missions, residents, facilities, training programmes and innovation products, visit www.space-park.co.uk or to learn more about the University of Leicester visit https://le.ac.uk/.
Main image: The Thai students and Thai delegation visiting Space Park Leicester