Bangkok: Yotsanan opened the 69th Science Fair, highlighting the power of innovation to solve global problems and transforming science into something accessible and inspireable for children and everyone. Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), presided over the opening ceremony of the 'National Science and Technology Fair 2026' under the theme 'Intelligence in Science for a Sustainable Future'.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Yoschanan emphasized the rapid changes occurring worldwide due to advancements in science, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). He stated that preparing Thailand for the future must start with developing human resources, particularly children and youth, by equipping them with scientific knowledge, analytical thinking skills, creativity, and the ability to use technology wisely. The fair serves as a vital platform for creating experiences and inspiring young people to learn through hands-on activities and discovering their potential.
Professor Dr. Yoschanan expressed the desire for the event to provide more than just knowledge to children and youth. He hopes it will inspire them to build upon this knowledge, ask new questions, and create new innovations, as quality human resources are fundamental to building Thailand's future.
Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI, noted that the fair is a collaborative effort involving over 96 organizations from eight countries. These include government agencies, private companies, educational institutions, and research institutes. Together, they aim to showcase knowledge, research findings, and innovations engagingly, demonstrating that science is relevant to daily life and capable of driving real change.
During the event, Professor Dr. Yoschanan presented the Prime Minister's Science Award 2026, honoring outstanding youth and teachers in science and technology. Five youths received the Prime Minister's Science Project Award 2026, while two teachers were awarded the Prime Minister's Science Teacher Award 2026. These awards highlight the potential of Thai youth to apply scientific knowledge to real-world societal problems.
Professor Dr. Yoschanan also used social media to invite the public to attend the fair, describing it as a "space of opportunity" with the potential to transform lives. He emphasized that science can inspire children to discover their future paths, improve their quality of life, and become essential contributors to national development.
The 'National Science and Technology Fair 2026' is open to the public from August 15-23, 2026, at Halls 9-11, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. The event features activities and exhibitions for all ages, offering a space for experiential learning and opportunities to gain new insights into science, technology, and the future.