In the era of digital transformation, advanced technologies such as drones, robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Geographic Information System (GIS), and Big Data are critical drivers for national economic growth, directly supporting Thailand’s targeted S-Curve industries. Recognizing the urgent demand for a highly skilled, tech-savvy workforce, Faculty of Science and Arts, Burapha University, initiated a strategic partnership with leading private tech enterprises: Systronics Co.,Ltd. and Pattaya Drone and Robotics Center (PDRC) Co., Ltd. This collaboration aims to establish a robust “Drone Ecosystem” through knowledge transfer and industry-aligned curriculum development. By bridging the gap between academic theory and industrial application, the project addresses modern technological challenges. It aligns perfectly with SDG 9 (Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), empowering the region with cutting-edge capabilities and fostering sustainable economic prosperity.
The aims:
1.To establish a formal collaborative network through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Burapha University and leading private enterprises—specifically Systronics Co., Ltd. and Pattaya Drone and Robotics Center (PDRC) Co., Ltd.—to advance drone and robotics technology.
2.To develop and implement the “Smart Drone Mastery” curriculum, aimed at upskilling students, university staff, and the wider community to meet the rigorous demands of modern digital industries.
3.To promote joint research and the practical application of drone technologies in areas such as disaster management, smart city development, and logistics, thereby fostering sustainable regional innovation.
The project was launched with an official MoU signing between the Faculty of Science and Arts, Burapha University, and industry experts from Systronics Co., Ltd. and Pattaya Drone and Robotics Center (PDRC) Co., Ltd. This cross-sectoral collaboration led to the implementation of the “Smart Drone Mastery” program, a high-standard seminar and training series focused on professional piloting, safety protocols, and aviation regulations. Key activities involved specialized technology transfer sessions where participants gained hands-on experience with state-of-the-art drone and robotics equipment. Furthermore, the initiative focuses on the co-creation of industry-aligned curricula and the establishment of a dynamic “Drone Ecosystem” on campus. This ecosystem acts as a critical technological hub, empowering students, staff, and the local community with the advanced skills required for smart city development and regional industrial innovation.
This strategic alliance significantly elevates the technological capacity of Burapha University, transforming it into a regional center of excellence for drone and robotics education (SDG 9.5). By upskilling students and the public through the “Smart Drone Mastery” program, the project enhances local employability and provides targeted industries with a highly qualified, future-ready workforce. The cross-sectoral dialogue initiated through this MOU (SDG 17.2.2) effectively bridges the gap between academia and the private sector, ensuring that educational outcomes directly support sustainable domestic technology development. Ultimately, this partnership lays the vital groundwork for utilizing advanced technologies in public safety and logistics, generating long-term economic benefits.
Date: March 26, 2026
Project Leader: Faculty of Science and Arts, Burapha University Chanthaburi Campus
