Deputy Prime Minister and MHESI Minister visits PSU Science Park, backs “South Innovation Bridge” to accelerate research utilization
Prince of Songkla University (PSU) welcomed Professor Dr. Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), during his visit to Songkhla on June 8, 2026, to monitor the translation of science, research, and innovation into practical applications through the South Innovation Bridge: Innovation Linkage for Utilization and Southern Economic Development initiative at the Southern Science Park, PSU.
Assistant Professor Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of PSU, welcomed the minister, while Assistant Professor Kamron Pitaks, Director of the Southern Science Park, presented the park’s achievements and strategic direction for strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem. The visit brought together university leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs, and partner organizations from across Southern Thailand.
As part of the program, PSU and its partner institutions showcased innovations in five thematic zones, highlighting technologies with practical applications at the community, industrial, and national levels. These included regional innovation expansion, medical and health technologies, student startups, Halal innovation, and community-based innovations, demonstrating the South’s growing capacity to compete internationally.
Among the featured innovations were biodiesel technologies for agriculture and fisheries, converting waste into renewable energy and promoting the circular economy; organic waste conversion systems using specialized microorganisms to produce high-quality organic fertilizer and support net-zero emissions goals; RSPO-based sustainable palm oil production technologies; and thermoplastic natural rubber materials for handicrafts that add value to rubber products while supporting the BCG economy.
Innovations aimed at improving quality of life included Dolphins Glasses, an assistive technology for visually impaired individuals that utilizes human echolocation principles to enhance mobility and independence. The medical and health innovation zone highlighted commercial-ready technologies such as medical-grade natural rubber products and Thai probiotic strains with applications in food, cosmetics, supplements, and animal feed.
Marine conservation research was also showcased, featuring genetic diversity studies and coral propagation technologies designed to strengthen coral resilience against climate change and support sustainable fisheries and marine tourism.
During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister outlined four strategic priorities for regional development through science, research, and innovation: scaling up successful innovations nationwide, strengthening the innovation ecosystem, leveraging local strengths such as rubber, palm oil, and halal industries, and developing future-ready human resources aligned with emerging technologies and industry demands.
The South Innovation Bridge initiative reflects the role of the Southern Science Park, Prince of Songkla University, as a regional hub connecting innovation networks and translating research and technology into tangible benefits. Through these efforts, PSU continues to contribute to economic growth, improved quality of life, and the sustainable development of Southern Thailand with a strong focus on long-term societal impact.