The weeklong cross-visit to Thailand was more than just an academic tour; it was a journey of forging and strengthening camaraderie among the CFAS team. Despite the inevitable challenges and delays of international travel, the participants displayed remarkable cooperation and mutual support. This environment of shared goals and experiences significantly enhanced the team’s unity and focus on their collective mission.

 

One of the key factors contributing to the strengthened camaraderie was the daily interactions and shared experiences during the visits to the HEIs. Engaging with counterparts at institutions like Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT), the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), Kasetsart University (KU), and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) allowed the team members numerous opportunities for casual conversations and deep discussions. These interactions ranged from comparing notes on organizing lecture classes and laboratory techniques to discussing the performance and needs of their students. These exchanges of ideas were not only intellectually stimulating but also fostered a sense of fellowship and mutual confidence.

 

As one participant noted, “The cooperation through interactions with our counterparts was excellent. I think the team is now more focused on the target goals for fisheries.” This sentiment was echoed by others who observed that the delays, challenges, and fun along the way fostered unity among the team. The exchange of ideas and strategies aimed at improving the College—the university’s flagship program—served as an excellent demonstration of fellowship and mutual confidence.

 

Another participant shared, “As a relatively new member of the CFAS family, this was an opportunity for me to develop closer fellowship and unity with other faculty despite our diverse expertise, personalities, and preferences.” This experience of bonding over shared goals and experiences was crucial for new and seasoned faculty members alike.

 

The camaraderie was further strengthened by the shared adventures outside the academic environment. Exploring historic sites, dining at local restaurants, and navigating public transportation together allowed the team to bond over new experiences. These moments of relaxation and enjoyment amidst their busy schedules helped break down any professional barriers, allowing genuine friendships and trust to develop. “Mutual trust and friendship among the team were strengthened as we spent a lot of time together, sharing insights and experiences,” noted another participant.

 

The cross-visit also provided practical learning experiences that enhanced the team’s professional knowledge. One participant highlighted, “During the cross visits in Thailand, I learned a lot, like how to identify the male and female in fish species and how to process the eggs for hatching.” Such hands-on experiences were invaluable for the participants, adding depth to their professional skills and knowledge.

 

The unity and camaraderie developed during this cross-visit were evident in how the team approached each institution’s programs and research initiatives. The collective focus on learning and adapting best practices from the Thai HEIs demonstrated the team’s commitment to enhancing ISUFST’s educational and research capabilities. The support and encouragement they provided each other during presentations and discussions highlighted the strong team spirit that had been cultivated.

 

The cross-visit was transformative, as faculty members documented each institution’s key programs, curricula, and innovative strategies. The exchange of ideas and best practices is expected to significantly enhance ISUFST’s research capabilities, educational offerings, and global competitiveness.

 

The potential academic, research, and administrative partnerships explored during the visit promise dynamic exchanges of knowledge and resources. These collaborations will pave the way for student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and innovative initiatives aligning with ISUFST’s technology transfer and sustainable development goals.

 

The international cross-visit to Thailand’s premier HEIs marks a significant milestone in ISUFST’s journey toward global educational excellence. By integrating the best practices and innovative strategies observed, CFAS is poised to advance its educational and research capabilities, contributing significantly to the global fisheries and marine sciences community. This initiative reaffirms ISUFST’s commitment to cultivating a globally competitive and innovative academic culture.

 

This exciting journey was documented through a series of photographs, capturing the essence of the team’s interactions, learnings, and the vibrant academic environments they explored. These images testify to their collective effort to bring ISUFST to the forefront of global fisheries and marine biology education. Enjoy the visual narrative of their transformative cross-visit! (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)