Islamabad – A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Royal Embassy of Thailand, visited the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and met with Prof. Dr. Abdul Raheman, Vice President (A&F) IIUI, at the Council Hall.
The Thai delegation included Mr. Pongprach Makchang, Ambassador attached to the MFA; Mr. Natthaphon Sapsinsoonthon, Minister Counsellor MFA; Mr. Sharif Yothasmuth, First Secretary MFA; Mr. Swapich Suwannapan, Third Secretary MFA; Pol. Capt. Piya Raksakul, Deputy Secretary General of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC); Mrs. Adeela Budia, Plan and Policy Analysis SBPAC; and Mr. Sukri Payo, Plan and Policy Analysis SBPAC. From the Embassy, H.E. Rongvudhi Virabut, Ambassador; Paoyee Waesahmae, Counsellor; and Mazher Sanjrani, Protocol Officer, Mr. Mazhar, joined the delegation.
Welcoming the guests, Dr. Abdul Raheman briefed them about the university’s academic vision, programs, and international collaborations. He said IIUI is home to a large number of Thai students in various disciplines, and the university attaches high importance to their academic growth and welfare. He also highlighted that IIUI has signed multiple MoUs with international universities for student and faculty exchanges and expressed hope for similar partnerships with Thai institutions.
The delegates and university leadership discussed avenues of cooperation in joint research, student and faculty mobility, and academic exchange. The Thai Ambassador lauded IIUI’s role in facilitating international students and suggested expanding leadership and cultural exchange programs. He also proposed organizing graduation ceremonies for Thai students and emphasized continued coordination in student support initiatives.
The session was also attended by Syed Naveed Ehtisham, Director Academics & Examinations; Dr. Asma Mansoor, In-Charge P≺ Dr. Hafiz Ghufran Ahmed, Students’ Advisor (Male); Dr. Rukhsana Tariq, Students’ Advisor (Female); Dr. Muhammad Ibrar Shanwari, Provost Male; Dr. Sajida M. Jameel, Provost Female; Ms. Madiha Akram, In-Charge Youth Development Centre (YDC) / Students Facilitation Centre (SFC); and Muhammad Nauman, Assistant Director P&PR.
IIUI officials appreciated the performance of Thai students, terming them among the most interactive and active in academic and extracurricular activities. They underlined the strong role of the YDC and SFC, in collaboration with the Directorate of Student Affairs and the Provost offices, in resolving student matters, particularly those related to international students. Officials also informed that hostel renovation and transport safety measures are underway to provide better facilities.
During the interaction, the delegation raised issues related to student NOCs, communication channels, and security. It was agreed that stronger coordination between the embassy, university management, and student advisors would help in addressing such matters effectively. The Thai Ambassador acknowledged the Islamic environment and academic opportunities provided by IIUI and assured continued embassy support, particularly during cultural and religious events.
A group of male and female Thai students also interacted with the delegation and shared their concerns regarding campus facilities. The delegates expressed hope for future collaboration with IIUI’s student advisors and for greater participation of Thai students in academic and co-curricular initiatives organized in coordination with the Embassy.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Thai Ambassador presented shields and gifts on behalf of the Royal Embassy of Thailand, while the Vice President (A&F) of IIUI presented the university’s crest to the Ambassador as a token of goodwill.