On May 5–6, 2026, the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Tourism and Hospitality Management, School of Business and Communication Arts, University of Phayao, led by Dr. Warach Matthayomburut, Program Head, in collaboration with faculty members and the Center of Excellence in Zero-Carbon Tourism and Hospitality, organized an academic development program entitled “Graduate Faculty Development for Research Enhancement.” The initiative aimed to strengthen the academic capacity of faculty members and enhance the quality of research to meet international standards, while addressing the transformation of the tourism industry in the context of the digital economy and sustainability.
The program emphasized the integration of interdisciplinary knowledge with emerging technologies. Key sessions included the application of information systems in tourism and hospitality management, delivered by Mr. Narin Thichayang, Director of Digital and Information Technology at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). His session highlighted the advancement of Thailand’s tourism industry toward Smart Tourism through the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to enhance management efficiency and improve tourist experiences, while simultaneously promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
In addition, a lecture on the application of Artificial Intelligence in tourism and hospitality research was delivered by Dr. Kanita Duangjamkan, Member of the Administrative Committee of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS). This session underscored the role of advanced technologies in generating new knowledge and fostering innovation within the tourism sector. These initiatives align with Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), which emphasizes the development of resilient infrastructure, the promotion of inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and the advancement of innovation to enhance long-term competitiveness.
The program also facilitated academic exchanges on research topic development across multiple dimensions, including management approaches, the application of tourism theories and conceptual frameworks, and the design of research aligned with competitive funding mechanisms. These activities contribute significantly to enhancing the quality of graduate education and are consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4: Quality Education), which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and to promote lifelong learning opportunities, particularly through strengthening research capacity and academic excellence in higher education.
Moreover, discussions were held with Chongqing University to develop international collaborative research projects among Thailand, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the People’s Republic of China under the Mekong–Lancang Cooperation Special Fund. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering multilateral academic partnerships, promoting knowledge exchange, and optimizing the use of shared resources at the regional level. It is closely aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals), which underscores the importance of strengthening global and regional partnerships to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
On this occasion, faculty members also engaged with Ph.D. students (Cohort 15) in discussions on research topic development, academic database utilization, and preparation for the qualifying examination scheduled for July. This engagement plays a vital role in nurturing early-career researchers and strengthening human capital in tourism and hospitality, thereby contributing to sustainable national and regional development in the long term.