Thailand Reviews EV Workforce Development Project at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi
Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has reviewed progress on a workforce development programme focused on electric vehicle (EV) technologies at Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) in Pathum Thani. The initiative aims to strengthen technical capabilities across academia, vocational education and industry to support Thailand’s modern automotive sector. According to an official announcement from MHESI, the project focuses on developing high‑competency talent in EV technologies through updated curricula, industry collaboration and specialised training.
The review was conducted on 31 March 2026 by Ms Penpan Kanjana, Inspector General at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. University leadership and project coordinators joined the session via electronic communication to present implementation progress and outline the next stages of the programme.
Building EV Skills Across Education and Industry
The programme is designed to build capacity across three target groups: lecturers and students at RMUTT, instructors and students from vocational institutions, and workers currently employed in the automotive industry. The project focuses on aligning EV-related training with industry demand while strengthening the capabilities of educators and technical specialists.
This approach reflects broader national efforts to strengthen digital and technical skills across the workforce. Similar initiatives highlighted in Thailand’s efforts to integrate technology and workplace learning show how education providers and industry partners are collaborating to prepare workers for emerging sectors.
Industry Partnerships and Skills Certification
Implementation of the project involves cooperation with several institutions within the Rajamangala University of Technology network, including Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep and Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus. Vocational colleges under Thailand’s Office of the Vocational Education Commission are also participating.
The university is also working with private sector partners to strengthen practical training. Participants who complete certification programmes—such as EV maintenance technician training—receive recognised credentials from Thailand’s Department of Skill Development under the Ministry of Labour.
RMUTT has additionally signed a memorandum of understanding with automotive manufacturer Changan Automobile to support technology transfer and strengthen industry-relevant training.
Expanding Collaboration to Address Skills Gaps
During the review, the inspector general recommended measures to sustain and expand the initiative. These include securing continued funding to support long-term programme development and expanding collaboration with additional educational institutions to address shortages of EV specialists and trainers.
One proposed approach is the development of a “master trainer” model, with RMUTT acting as a central hub for knowledge sharing and instructor development. The university was also encouraged to strengthen cooperation with national research organisations, including the Thailand Electric Vehicle Center of Excellence and the National Science and Technology Development Agency.
Further recommendations included expanding partnerships with industry so that companies can provide real-world training environments equipped with specialised tools and equipment. Such collaboration aligns with wider national strategies to equip learners with advanced technical capabilities, similar to programmes supporting future-ready digital and technical skills among young people in Thailand.
