On June 8–9, 2026, Maejo University, in collaboration with the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (OPS MHESI), hosted a seminar titled "Presidents’ Engagement Forum on Technology and Innovation Development." The event focused on policies and mechanisms to drive the "Group 2" university network toward becoming hubs for innovation and a high-value economy. The forum aimed to foster connections among these institutions, supporting their efforts to achieve excellence in higher education, develop highly specialized human capital tailored to national needs, and advance teaching, research, and innovation. Associate Professor Dr. Weerapon Thongma, President of Maejo University, delivered the welcoming remarks.

The seminar brought together executives and representatives from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the National Innovation Agency (NIA), alongside leadership from the 19 universities within the "Group 2" network—a cluster dedicated to technology and innovation development. These institutions include: Thaksin University, King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok, Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Rajamangala University of Technology Suvarnabhumi, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Princess of Naradhiwas University, Burapha University, and Pibulsongkram Rajabhat University. Participating institutions included Ubon Ratchathani University, Chitralada Technology Institute, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Siam University, and Maejo University. The seminar was honored by the presence of Associate Professor Dr. Thep Pongpanich, President of the Maejo University Council, and was held at the Kantary Hills Hotel, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province.

On this occasion, Professor Dr. Yoschanan Wongswasdi—serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation—visited an exhibition showcasing research and innovation projects from Maejo University. He also delivered a special keynote address titled "University Group 2 as Thailand’s Innovation Engine: The Power of Universities for the Future of the Thai Economy." Other notable contributions included a lecture by Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, on "Mechanisms for Driving 'University Group 2' Toward Innovation-Led Outcomes"; a presentation by Dr. Panperm-sak Arunee, Deputy Permanent Secretary, on "Higher Education Development Funds for Advancing 'University Group 2'"; and a special talk on the National Innovation Agency’s policies for supporting "University Group 2," delivered by Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization).

Professor Dr. Yoschanan Wongswasdi, Deputy Prime Minister The Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) stated, "Group 2 universities serve as a vital link between advanced research, the industrial sector, and local communities. They act as drivers for technology and innovation, while also playing a concrete role in developing human capital and fostering entrepreneurs—all of which serve as a powerful engine for the future of the Thai economy."

Furthermore, the event included a brainstorming session focused on establishing a collaborative network and facilitating knowledge exchange to enhance operational capabilities. Participants analyzed strategic alignment, connecting the 2026–2030 Action Plan of the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation with the regional potential and strategic priorities of the Group 2 university network. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by all 19 participating institutions, paving the way for deeper inter-university cooperation, the elevation of educational and research quality, and the creation of innovations that address national development needs. This initiative strengthens the collaborative framework of the Group 2 universities, enabling them to effectively drive MHESI’s policies, deliver tangible outcomes, and ultimately contribute to a robust and sustainable higher education, research, and innovation system for the nation.