Meeting with University of Otago

On Monday November 22, 2021, Assistant Professor Nirada Chitrakara, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts, together with representatives from the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy and Chulalongkorn University’s Office of International Affairs met with representatives from New Zealand Education, Thailand, and University of Otago via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss possible collaborations as the University of Otago is signing a MoU with Chulalongkorn University. In the humanities, the fields of linguistics and English are part of the University of Otago’s strength. To initiate the partnership, the Faculty of Arts proposed to invite professors from the University of Otago to join talk sessions for students and staff. It is hoped that the talks will lead to further academic collaboration. On Otago’s side, the representatives show interest in the Arts Chula Summer Program in Thai Language and Culture which has been offered both onsite and online since 2018. Another possible collaboration with the Faculty of Arts is student and faculty exchange programs. Although New Zealand is considered a new destination for exchange, it will have to compete with other English language speaking destinations when it comes to students’ preference. To make Otago attractive, it was suggested that they provide scholarships, some financial support, or free accommodation for exchange students/staff.

Founded in 1869, the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand is New Zealand’s first University. It is arguably second in prestige only to the University of New Zealand. Otago considers itself a research-led University. Regarding its international reputation, the University is ranked 184 in the 2020/21 QS World University Rankings and in the top 100 in 15 subject areas. The University is also famous for vibrant student life. Its campus was ranked one of the world’s most beautiful university campuses by The Daily Telegraph.

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