PSU partners with Confucius Institute and Immigration Bureau to enhance Chinese language skills of immigration officers

International News 03 April 2025 Hits: 28

On February 26, 2025, at the Faculty of Liberal Arts, PSU, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to enhance Chinese language proficiency for immigration officers under Immigration Division 6. The signing ceremony was presided over by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha, Commander of Immigration Division 6, and attended by Asst. Prof. Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of PSU; Dr. Panida Sukseemuang, Dean of the Faculty of Liberal Arts; Dr. Sakda Kajornbun, Dean of the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Management Sciences; Mr. Tang Zhiyong, Director of the Confucius Institute at PSU; and Mr. Wang Zhijian, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Songkhla. The ceremony also welcomed university executives, faculty members, immigration officers, and media representatives.

Dr. Niwat emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that the signing of the MoU to enhance Chinese language proficiency for immigration officers under Immigration Division 6 is a pivotal initiative that supports the growth of the tourism industry, particularly in response to the increasing influx of Chinese tourists. He further highlighted that this partnership will provide PSU students from both the Hat Yai and Surat Thani campuses with valuable opportunities to gain professional experience and participate in cooperative education programs at the Immigration Bureau. This collaboration represents a significant step in the development of personnel within a vital government agency, while also offering students the chance to understand the responsibilities of immigration officers, equipping them with the skills necessary for their future careers.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprode also noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People's Republic of China. He highlighted that the recent visa exemption agreement between the two nations has led to a significant increase in Chinese tourist arrivals. In response to this, Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumart Boonyaluck, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, has introduced a policy to enhance the capabilities of immigration officers through collaboration with both public and private sectors, ensuring improved services for these visitors.

“As part of this initiative, we conducted a survey among officers in Immigration Division 6 to assess their interest in learning Chinese. The enthusiastic response from our officers has paved the way for the establishment of this specialized Chinese language training program”

The signing of this MOU aims to foster academic collaboration and personnel training among the three parties involved. This initiative will provide immigration officers with Chinese language training, improving their communication skills and elevating the quality of service offered to Chinese tourists. Additionally, the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Songkhla has generously donated Chinese translation devices to the immigration officers. This contribution will enhance their operational efficiency and further strengthen the long-term relations between Thailand and China.