From 26 February to 8 March 2026, Sophia GED had the pleasure of welcoming Prof. Hikari Ishido and 29 students from Chiba University for the program “Field Study on Thailand’s Society and Economy.” During the ten-day program, students explored various regions of Thailand, including Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Suphanburi, and Chonburi provinces. Students gained a deeper understanding of the country’s social, cultural, and economic landscape.
The program combined academic learning with field-based experiences. At Chulalongkorn University, students attended a lecture by Asst. Prof. Katikar Tipayalai on the socioeconomic dynamics of ASEAN and Thailand, followed by a campus tour led by student representatives. The visit offered participants a glimpse into academic life at one of Thailand’s leading universities.
Students also had the opportunity to explore Bangkok together with Thai university students through a student-led fieldwork activity. Working in small groups, participants designed their own routes and explored different areas of the city, observing urban life from multiple perspectives while engaging in cross-cultural exchange.
Field visits across Thailand provided further opportunities for experiential learning. In Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, students explored historic temples and learned about Thailand’s rich historical background. In Suphanburi, the Baan Laem community welcomed the group with traditional performances and cultural workshops, allowing students to experience local traditions and community-based tourism.
The program also introduced students to contemporary social and economic issues. A visit to the Sikkha Asia Foundation highlighted ongoing challenges related to poverty and education. The program also included a study visit to Laem Chabang Deep Seaport in Chonburi, where students gained insight into Thailand’s logistics infrastructure and economic development within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).
Sophia GED is delighted to have supported this enriching program and hopes the students return to Japan with valuable knowledge, new perspectives, and lasting memories from their time in Thailand.
— The Sophia GED Team
