Mon National College (MNC), under the Mon National Education Committee (MNEC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Chiang Mai Rajabhat University (CMRU) in Thailand to collaborate in higher education. The signing ceremony occurred at Chiang Mai Rajabhat University on January 15, 2025.
The event was attended by MNC Principal Dr. Ponnya Mon, MNEC Chairman Nai Aye Mon, Department of Social Sciences Head Nai Myint Than, and other officials from MNEC and MNC.
Representatives from Rajabhat University, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chatri Maneekosol, the university’s president; Asst. Prof. Dr. Dusadee Rangsichatchawan, the vice president and secretary; Prof. Dr. Worasuda Wattanawong, head of international relations; and Kamolwan Sangseekaew, deputy head of international relations, attended the event.
Dr. Ponnya Mon highlighted the agreement’s significance, noting that MNC, lacking government recognition, relies on international universities’ acknowledgment to establish its credibility. He explained that the growing number of MOUs with such institutions reflects the increasing recognition of MNC’s qualifications. He added that this collaboration with Rajabhat University brings scholarship opportunities for MNC students and enhances the credibility of its degrees.
The MOU outlines a five-year partnership that includes student and faculty exchange programs, mutual recognition of degrees, joint research initiatives, workshops, professional training sessions, and access to online libraries. The agreement also aims to explore dual-degree programs and short-term training opportunities, further enhancing educational prospects for MNC students.
Dr. Ponnya Mon also revealed plans to sign an MOU with the Royal College of London on February 5. Discussions are ongoing for potential partnerships with Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University in Bangkok, Chiang Rai Rajabhat University in Chiang Rai, and the University of Arizona in the United States.
Nai Myint Than, head of the Social Sciences Department at MNC, expressed optimism about expanding student opportunities. He noted that pursuing higher education abroad is becoming less complicated, despite some parents’ initial doubts about MNC’s lack of government recognition. He emphasized the institution’s commitment to strengthening its credibility through increased collaborations and structural improvements.
In the past year, MNC signed MOUs with Payap University in Chiang Mai and Purdue University in Fort Wayne, United States. In 2024, nine MNC students received scholarships through the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Program to study at Payap University, highlighting the growing opportunities available to students through these international collaborations.
