IAPP Thailand

IAPP Thailand is an ongoing program focused on building new connections and strengthening existing collaborations between higher education institutions in the U.S. and Thailand. The program’s first round concluded in October 2024, involving a cohort of 48 selected universities from both countries. The second round, “IAPP Thailand 2025,” is scheduled from June 2025 to April 2026. This initiative is supported through the generous backing of the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok.

Dr. Afzal Upal, associate dean of the College of Integrated Science and Engineering, and Dr. Corey A. Hickerson, director of global learning in the Center for Global Engagement, attended the U.S. State Department-sponsored trip to 14 universities in Thailand. The goals were to learn about Thai education, build relationships, and start new partnerships. The pair visited cities from northern to southern Thailand and explored potential collaborations that could include faculty/staff exchange, student exchange, dual degree programs, study abroad, and other short-term programs. 

The U.S. delegation was competitively selected, and JMU was one of the 12 U.S. universities chosen. The  tours focused on STEM and the digital economy. The U.S. State Department, the Thai Embassy, and the Institute of International Education sponsored the program. 

The trip was extremely useful in learning about global education possibilities in Southeast Asia. “The universities we visited are doing dynamic work in STEM, communication, and AI. We look forward to working with them in the future,” said Hickerson.

The Thai universities will visit Washington, D.C. next semester. JMU will host an event for them at our Washington Center, a great venue to showcase our university.