COPAG Leads Graduate Students on "Meet the Expert" Field Trip: Exploring Urban Policy and Crisis Management with Deputy Governor Tavida and Sombat Boonngamanong

From January 22-24, 2026, the Graduate Studies Division of the College of Politics and Governance (COPAG), Mahasarakham University, organized the project "Meet the Expert: Real-World Learning and Professional Development for Graduate Students." Led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Nilubol Phairoh, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research, the faculty members, staff, and graduate students traveled to Bangkok to bridge political science theories with real-world practices.

The three-day program focused on broadening perspectives and enhancing professional experiences through on-site visits and sessions with key experts:

• Legislative Insights (Jan 22): The group visited the Parliament House to observe the legislative process and understand the roles of the parliament, including a tour of the assembly hall.

• Civil Society & Crisis Management (Jan 23): At the Mirror Foundation, students attended a special lecture by Mr. Sombat Boonngamanong (Editor Lai Jud), the Foundation’s Director, on "The Role and Operations of the Mirror Foundation in Crisis Management alongside the Government," gaining insights into social driving mechanisms and civil society operations.

• Urban Policy with BMA (Jan 24): Students explored urban development models under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Activities included a city walk at Benjakitti Park and a special lecture by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok. She covered two key topics: "Green Space Policy, Urban Development, and Street Vending Regulation" at Lumpini Park, and "Disaster Prevention and Mitigation under BMA Operations" at Banthat Thong Fire Station, providing direct policy insights from top-level administration.

This project aligns with the College’s Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), aiming to equip students with the ability to apply political science knowledge to address issues in various contexts and to develop their potential as future leaders.