Regional Workshop on Sustainable Development Challenges and Stakeholder Engagement (Eastern Region)

          To drive the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the subnational level in a systematic and evidence-based manner, the Center for SDG Research and Support (SDG Move), Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University, in collaboration with the Office of the National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), has initiated the Provincial SDG Index Project. The project aims to identify area-based science, research, and innovation (SRI) needs that align with the local and regional context by using quantitative indicators alongside participatory engagement with local stakeholders. Under this project, Burapha University was invited to co-host the stakeholder consultation workshop in the Eastern region. The university plays a proactive role in driving SRI mechanisms for sustainable development at the regional level, with the goal of shaping context-specific, evidence-informed development strategies that can be scaled up nationally.

          This workshop was part of the “Provincial SDG Index Project,” aiming to identify area-based needs in science, research, and innovation (SRI) that support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project integrates quantitative indicators aligned with the SDGs and inclusive stakeholder engagement at the local and regional levels.

 

          The workshop had three main objectives:

 

1. Present findings from the Provincial SDG Index.

 

2. To gather input and feedback from local stakeholders.

 

3. To explore collaborative strategies for developing effective SRI mechanisms at the regional level.

          This project was implemented by developing the Provincial SDG Index, which combines quantitative indicators aligned with the SDGs and participatory stakeholder engagement at the regional level. The process aims to identify actual area-based needs in science, research, and innovation (SRI). Burapha University served as the co-host for the Eastern region, organizing a regional workshop to present data, analyze development challenges, and collect feedback from multiple sectors. The outcomes of this dialogue contribute to the design of effective regional SRI mechanisms and support Thailand’s national Voluntary National Review (VNR), which will be presented on the global stage.

          This project strengthened regional multi-stakeholder engagement by positioning Burapha University as a “neutral platform” that bridges academic knowledge, local voices, and evidence-based policymaking. It provided a concrete model for localizing the SDGs, grounded in area-specific needs and real community challenges. The outcomes contribute to Thailand’s preparation for the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR), highlighting national progress and challenges on the global stage. Moreover, the initiative reinforced the university’s role as a regional knowledge hub and a catalyst for sustainable development through strategic partnerships across sectors.

 

Project Leader: Dr. Phatcharee Thongampai, Assistant Vice President for Special Affairs, Burapha University