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The Bangkok International Organization Training Program in Thailand was held from September 14 to September 20, 2025.

 

This unique overseas program of College of International Relations is coordinated by Prof. Sachiko Ishikawa, and the program aims to maintain and improve students’ motivation to work for international organizations while learning about the roles and work of international organizations, and importance of being in the field.

 

During this year’s program, students visited several key institutions in Bangkok, including UNHCR, UNICEF, UNESCAP, UNESCO, the Microsoft Thailand Office, and Chulalongkorn University.

 

At UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), students learned about the current challenges faced in refugee support and the initiatives being undertaken to address them. The students exchanged their opinions on solutions to these problems.

At UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), representatives provided insights into their daily work and shared valuable advice about the competencies required to work in international organizations.

The session also featured a talk by Ms. Yui Walsh, an alumna of the College of International Relations and current UNICEF staff member working as a JPO (Junior Professional Officer). Hearing directly from a graduate working in the field gave students a rare and meaningful perspective.

 

 

At UNESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific), students learned about the missions and activities of various divisions through interactive quizzes and exchanged ideas with the staff.

During the lunchtime session, students heard about the staff members’ career paths and university experiences, gaining valuable advice and perspectives that are rarely accessible through regular coursework.

 

At UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), students joined a session with students from Chulalongkorn University to learn about UNESCO's work on the SDGs and issues related to World Heritage.

The session covered a wide range of topics including environmental issues, education, and gender equality.

 

At the Microsoft Thailand Office, students learned about real-world applications of AI and the essential skills needed to succeed in a fast-changing, technology-driven society.

 

At Chulalongkorn University, following mutual introductions of each university's efforts related to the SDGs, students were divided into groups for a collaborative group presentation. Each group proposed solutions to pressing SDG-related issues that both universities should address in the future.

The visit also served as a meaningful reunion, as students from Chulalongkorn University had previously visited Ritsumeikan University's Kinugasa Campus in July.

 

 

This wonderful training program was made possible by the network that Prof. Sachiko Ishikawa established during her time at UNHCR and JICA. It was very meaningful with a diverse range of students regardless of nationality, major, or class.