The University of Phayao, through the Planning Division, was appointed by the Higher Education Planning Network (HEP Net) to host the 2024 annual seminar and knowledge exchange program. The event, themed "Exchanging Experiences in Using Technology for Monitoring and Evaluation, and Understanding Social Return on Investment (SROI)," took place from January 19-20, 2024, at the University of Phayao, Phayao Province.
Objectives
The primary aim of the seminar was to provide a platform for HEP Net, a network comprising directors and policy and planning officers from state and semi-autonomous universities, to exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices. Discussions centered on applying technology for monitoring and evaluation, improving operational systems, creating academic outputs, and fostering collaboration and strong relationships among HEP Net member institutions. The network currently includes 34 higher education institutions, rotating host responsibilities for the annual seminar.
Highlights of the Event
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Opening Ceremony
The seminar was inaugurated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supakorn Pongbangpho, President of the University of Phayao. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thitirat Chiewsuwan, Vice President for Policy and Planning, gave a welcome address to the HEP Net President, Mr. Anan Dechaprom from Chiang Mai University, and other distinguished advisors, including Dr. Samran Thongpaeng and Mr. Sunit Thepphaitoon from King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, and Ms. Wandee Boonying from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. A total of 130 participants, including representatives from 23 universities, attended the seminar. -
Keynote Sessions
- Experiences in applying technology for monitoring and evaluation were shared by representatives from Chulalongkorn University, Chiang Mai University, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Kasetsart University, Khon Kaen University, and Suranaree University of Technology.
- Dr. Waratch Matayomburut, Deputy Director of the Innovation and Technology Transfer Institute at the University of Phayao, delivered a lecture on "Concepts of Social and Economic Impact Evaluation for Academic Services and Research."
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Group Discussions and Networking
The seminar concluded with group discussions among policy and planning directors, focusing on collaborative planning and integrated operations. This was followed by a social event to build relationships among participants and experience the local culture of Phayao. -
Field Study and Cultural Visit
On January 20, 2024, participants visited cultural landmarks, including Wat Rong Khun and Singha Park in Chiang Rai, to explore value creation in art, culture, and tourism. The group also studied "Soft Power" initiatives promoting local culture globally at the Thailand Biennale, Chiang Rai 2023.
Outcomes
Representatives from various universities shared their experiences in using technological tools like the CU Data Analytic Dashboard, CMU One Planning, KMUTT Strategy Diagnosis, KU-MIS/EIS Dashboard, and Power BI & Looker Studio. These exchanges provided valuable insights for improving information systems and monitoring mechanisms to better align with each institution's mission, supporting management decisions.
The Vice President for Policy and Planning at the University of Phayao tasked the Planning Division to apply the insights gained from the seminar to enhance the university’s information systems, focusing on monitoring and evaluating budget/activities, strategic plans, risk management, and integrated ITA assessments.
