Thammasat's 2026 conference tackles aging with global innovation partnerships
Thammasat University is set to host the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference (HIC) Thailand 2026 on January 31. The event will focus on transforming universities into innovation hubs to tackle the challenges of a rapidly aging society. Under the theme 'Re-imagining Connections: From Education to Ecosystem', the conference aims to link education, research, and industry for global competitiveness.
Across Europe, similar efforts are already underway. Countries like Germany, England, and Poland have launched interdisciplinary projects, including the *InterCare initiative*—funded by VolkswagenStiftung—and the upcoming *ECSR conference* in Cologne, which will showcase research on aging in September 2025.
The conference will bring together researchers, startups, and experts to pitch ideas, receive feedback, and compete for development opportunities. A dedicated exhibition will highlight health tech innovations designed for elderly care, reflecting Thammasat's push to build an innovation ecosystem.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Phinitbhand Paribatra, Vice President for Research and Innovation, announced that Thammasat received funding in 2025 for a project on supportive environments and health behaviours. The goal is to improve quality of life for older adults through sustainable solutions. Asst. Prof. Dr. Soisuda Kesornthong, Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, stressed the need for cross-border collaboration to drive meaningful change. Prof. Dr. Takeo Ogawa, a keynote speaker, will address *'Innovation in Aging Society'*, arguing that social restructuring—not just technology—can turn demographic challenges into strengths. He advocates for leveraging age diversity to reshape societal roles. Thammasat's partnership with *Leave a Nest* is also accelerating its shift toward future-focused solutions. The university aims to position itself as a leader in elderly health innovation, both in Thailand and internationally. Knowledge from the conference will directly inform policies and practices for sustainable aging.
HIC Thailand 2026 will serve as a platform for sharing research, fostering partnerships, and advancing health innovations. The outcomes are expected to strengthen Thailand's innovation ecosystem while contributing to global efforts in aging societies. With similar initiatives already active in Europe, the conference reinforces the growing momentum toward interdisciplinary solutions for older populations.
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