Chonburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao are designated by the government as special economic development areas. Known as the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), this region welcomes world-leading high-tech and industrial corporations to expand their businesses. Schools and educational institutions in the area must prepare students for careers in this fast-growing, multicultural business hub. To meet this challenge, Burapha University Language Institute (BUULI) has partnered with the EEC Development Fund (EECDF) to enhance foreign language education, particularly in English and Chinese. 

           The project aims to develop innovative teaching techniques for English and Chinese, improve teachers’ content knowledge, build a network of educators, and create model teachers who can share their expertise with others in Rayong province. 

           The initiative includes numerous activities focused on teacher development and student engagement: discussions with school administrators, workshops, internationalization training for teachers, preparation for English proficiency testing, online and in-person follow-ups, learning material development (books and podcasts), language skill research, and support for student activities. 

           The project has proven successful, improving education quality, benefiting schools, and positively impacting the community by enhancing livelihoods and reducing poverty. Over 60 teachers have participated, inspiring more than 3,000 students across 20 schools and colleges. The project’s outcomes include 9 podcasts, 6 MOOCs, and 2 e-books, all available at https://sites.google.com/go.buu.ac.th/efle2021.