PSU（Prince of Songkla University）Thailand Office Opening address

Good morning, everyone.

I am Makoto KOSAKA, President of Univ. of Hyogo, Kobe, JAPAN. On the occasion of the inauguration ceremony, I would like to offer a few words of greeting.

At the outset, I would like to express my deepest condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

Today's ceremony is graced by Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, the president of PSU and so many distinguished guests. We express our sincere gratitude to all of you for your presence today.

With a history of nearly 100 years, the University of Hyogo is one of Japan's leading public universities, comprising six faculties, nine graduate schools, and five research institutes.

In the age of rapidly advancing AI/ICT, the University promotes creative interdisciplinary research based on the concepts of "well-being" and "leave no one behind," as articulated in the SDGs.

We strive to provide an education that enables students to develop critical and creative thinking, and to become highly skilled professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit who can build bridges rather than walls between people.

Nothing can be taken for granted. Change for a better world is possible when we work together. With these thoughts in mind, we set out to open our Satellite Office in Thailand. And now, we have been able to get off the ground thanks to the warm and generous support of many people and organizations including PSU.

This permanent office will serve as a hub for promoting friendly relations and academic collaboration between Thailand and Japan based on mutual respect.

Finally, I would like to introduce to you our dear and friend Mr. Prapakorn. With his strong support, we were able to start this office. Mr. Prapakorn will continue to play a central role in our initiative, I hope.

Our journey has just begun. Let us join hands and move forward together.

I would like to conclude my speech by asking for your continued interest in and support for our Satellite Office.

Thank you very much again for your time and attention.

Makoto KOSAKA
President, University of Hyogo
November 21th, 2025