Naresuan University and Tzu Chi University Strengthen Partnership to Nurture Global Talent

To deepen academic exchange and cooperation, a delegation from Naresuan University (NU), Tzu Chi University’s sister school in Thailand, visited Tzu Chi University (TCU) on September 2–3, 2025. Discussions focused on expanding dual-degree programs, faculty and student exchanges, joint research, and clinical education, with the goal of strengthening their long-standing partnership.

NU and TCU became sister schools in 2014, and in 2015 NU conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Social Development on Dharma Master Cheng Yen. Over the years, both universities have maintained close ties. Professor Krongkarn Chootip, Dean of NU’s Graduate School, remarked that every visit to TCU brings inspiring experiences—from the Humanities Classroom featuring tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and calligraphy, to the Silent Mentor Program, where body donors become “Silent Mentors of selfless love.” She expressed hope that the two universities will expand their collaboration, raise global visibility, and enhance the quality of international research publications.

During the visit, the Faculties of Medicine and Nursing from both universities shared research results in medicine, public health, and nursing, exploring opportunities for co-authored papers, joint research proposals, and expanded student exchanges. At TCU’s Administrative and Academic Leadership Retreat, both sides agreed to pursue new initiatives, including a dual-degree PhD program, deeper collaboration in public health and nursing, co-teaching, and faculty exchanges. Plans also include signing a Memorandum of Understanding, co-hosting conferences, and arranging reciprocal visits to foster stronger academic and cultural ties.

President Ingrid Liu of TCU expressed her heartfelt hope that these efforts will encourage more Thai students to study at Tzu Chi University. She emphasized that both institutions share a commitment to nurturing students’ character with gratitude, respect, and love, while transforming research into benefits for society. She also noted that Tzu Chi has established a Tzu Chi School in Chiang Mai, while NU remains a dream destination for many Thai students. With strengthened cooperation, she believes, the two universities can attract more bright and caring students and create meaningful opportunities for global education built on love and mutual respect.