OHESDC Hosts AIEA Networking Reception to Strengthen Global Education Ties

On February 17, 2026, the Office of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Royal Thai Embassy, Washington, D.C. (OHESDC) hosted a dinner and networking reception for participants of the ohesdc-hosts-aiea-networking-reception-to-strengthen-global-education-tiesannual conference of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) at the Royal Thai Embassy.

The event invited senior administrators and representatives from international universities attending the AIEA conference to strengthen relationships and exchange ideas on collaboration in education, science, research, and innovation between Thailand and global partners in a relaxed atmosphere. Discussions focused on advancing partnerships through student and faculty exchange programs, joint research projects, and building strategic networks with leading universities.

This reception served as a key opportunity to promote Thailand's higher education and research capabilities to the international community, enhancing the country's image as a ready partner for expanding global academic and innovation collaborations.

Mr. Thitidej Tularak, Minister-Counsellor, office of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C., delivered welcoming remarks and delivered a speech on Thailand’s higher education and research policies and directions, as well as programs and opportunities for international collaboration.

Dr. Paulo-Zagalo Melo, President of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA), delivered remarks highlighting AIEA’s role in advancing international collaboration in higher education.

Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to Washington, D.C., delivered the opening remarks and

a keynote address on Thailand–U.S. cooperation.

The 2026 AIEA Annual Conference took place from February 16–19 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C., USA, under the theme “Leading the Way: Navigating Volatility and New Realities in International Education,” emphasizing leadership roles amid global uncertainties in higher education.

The conference provided a vital platform for international education leaders worldwide, featuring over 100 academic sessions and panels on strategic partnerships, virtual collaboration models, emerging trends, and challenges in internationalization.

AIEA 2026 featured pre-conference workshops on strategic partnerships and mobility innovations for practical use. Networking included welcome receptions, new attendee meetups, Embassy Visits, and evening Dine-Arounds for informal collaboration. Top experts' keynotes and panels provided policy insights on higher education internationalization, establishing it as a leading global forum for sharing, strategy, and networking.