CP Group and leading academics call for education reform

As artificial intelligence advances globally, Thailand's education system must adapt to equip future workforce with critical skills. At the Global Compact Network Thailand Forum 2026, business executives, academics and technology leaders called for reforms to align education with evolving workforce demands. Dr Teerapon Tanomsakyut, CP Group's Chief Sustainability and Strategic Development Officer, stressed the necessity of graduates possessing analytical skills, adaptability and leadership rather than theoretical knowledge.

He warned against over-reliance on AI, stating it should enhance human capability, not replace rigorous thought. Dr Teerapon advocated for universities to function as experiential "sandboxes" where students can learn from both success and failure through industry exposure. Prof. Dr Supasawad Chardchawarn, Thammasat University's Rector, emphasized the need for structured data-sharing between institutions and the private sector to design relevant curricula.

Bridging the academic-industry gap, Thammasat University should establish clear visibility on sector-specific hiring trends while maintaining academic rigor. Educators must also gain industry exposure to guide students effectively. Phupha Amorkijja, a Cambridge AI alumnus, highlighted the importance of adaptability and communication as technological disruption renders existing technical workflows obsolete rapidly.

She emphasized continuous upskilling for educators to guide students through shifting industry benchmarks. Orakarn Jivakiet, CP Group's CoEx Programme Director, explained how public-private partnerships are nurturing versatile leaders who can use technology to solve complex business challenges. The CoEx Programme, developed in collaboration with universities, international technology specialists and enterprise owners, aims to build cross-disciplinary agility and commercial leadership among young professionals.

Orakarn stressed lifelong learning as essential during this industrial transition, but also emphasized the crucial responsibility of formal university systems to instill discipline, personal accountability and ethical grounding required by society.