PHUKET, 4th Aug. – From 3 to 4 August 2023, 31 students and 4 staffs from Faculty of Computing, UTM visited the College of Computing at Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus. The event promoted meaningful interaction, cross-institutional collaboration, and cultural exploration.
The academic visit kicked off on August 3, 2023, with a warm welcome and introductory speeches by PSU College of Computing Dean, Associate Professor Dr Aziz Nanthaamornphong UTM Faculty of Computing Associate Dean of Academic, Professor Ts. Dr. Dayang Norhayati Abang Jawawi. This formal exchange set the tone for the upcoming days of learning and collaboration.
Students were privileged to join an Internet of Things (IoT) class led by Dr Norrathep Rattanavipanon. This session delved into the ever-expanding world of interconnected devices, offering students insights into IoT technology’s practical applications and challenges.
Moreover, the exploration of cutting-edge technologies continued as students engaged in an elemental robotics class guided by Aj. Kullawat Chaowanawatee. This hands-on experience allowed participants to immerse themselves in robotics, learning about the intricacies of designing and programming robotic systems.
Balancing the technological advancements, the academic visit also offered a cultural perspective. Students embarked on a tour of Phuket Old Town, a journey through time to explore the diversity of rich Peranakan culture that exists in Thailand which can also be found in Melaka, Malaysia.
On August 4, the focus shifted towards collaboration and research. Associate Professor Dr Waradom Werapun, the Associate Dean for Research and Innovation at PSU College of Computing, shared insights into the latest research and collaborative initiatives within the institution.
The presentation provided a glimpse into the innovative projects underway and highlighted the college’s postgraduate opportunities for students. Adding an international dimension to the event, Pityada Jeokwon, Head of the International Affairs Centre at PSU, discussed the institution’s global outreach and its efforts to foster international partnerships for mutual growth and understanding.
In keeping with the spirit of collaboration, participants engaged in a class on Collaborative AI in graphic design. Led by Dr. Jakrapan Chaopreecha and Dr. Voravika Wattanasoontorn, this session explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and graphic design assisted by animation students from PSU.
Apart from the academic visit aspect, this visit is also aimed at empowering students to organize their own travel with guidance from an experienced lecturer. The students arranged many different modes of transportation from UTM JB to KL Sentral to Padang Besar to Hat Yai and finally to Phuket.
The academic visit to PSU’s College of Computing, Phuket Campus, not only provided a platform for the exchange of knowledge and expertise but also showcased the institution’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological innovation. It is hoped that UTM will receive and explore more opportunities for cooperation with universities in Thailand.
By Marina Md-Arshad and Nik Ilhami Nik Ibrisam