Bangkok: The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) and the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) have announced a significant collaboration focused on enhancing the potential and competitiveness of Thai farmers. This initiative centers on academic cooperation and technology transfer designed to empower farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs, including the new generation of farmers, by integrating knowledge in science, technology, and innovation.
According to Thai News Agency, the partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Mr. Chatchai Sirilai, President of BAAC, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Wirachai Acharn, Governor of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). The agreement aims to enable farmers to apply new knowledge to various aspects of agriculture, including production, processing, yield enhancement, and marketing. The collaboration also emphasizes preventing farmer-related issues and adding value to agricultural products, ensuring a stable and sustainable agricultural career.
BAAC will play a pivotal role by providing access to funding, financial services, and business knowledge. The collaboration has already seen tangible outcomes, such as the development of the ready-to-eat rice product "Aun Im" from the Agricultural Cooperative for Customer Marketing, BAAC Roi Et Co., Ltd. This product utilizes GI jasmine rice from Thung Kula Rong Hai and employs heat sterilization technology, allowing it to be stored at room temperature for up to 18 months. Since its launch, "Aun Im" has achieved significant sales, demonstrating the potential impact of such innovations.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Wirachai highlighted that the collaboration's objectives extend beyond improving agricultural production. It also focuses on product standards enhancement, marketing development, and research commercialization. The partnership aims to empower farmers with access to suitable capital and financial services, fostering a creative economy by integrating local wisdom with modern scientific knowledge. This approach ensures that Thai agricultural products meet international standards and supports the national economy's strength and sustainability.
The agreement also includes support for education, training, and academic networking, both locally and internationally, over the next three years. Executives from both organizations attended the signing ceremony at the Chamniansarn Conference Room, BAAC Headquarters.