Chiang Mai University (CMU), in collaboration with key academic units including the Department of Tourism (Faculty of Humanities), the Lifelong Learning College, Faculty of Education, and the College of Arts, Media, and Technology, has officially launched the Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services Center. This initiative is part of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE) project. The center aims to bridge the gap between education and industry needs by emphasizing practical skills, innovation, and sustainability to better prepare students for the global workforce.

The Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) program and the University-Business Collaboration (UBC) mechanism at CMU are designed to enhance learning quality while addressing the gap between academic training and the skills required in the modern job market. The newly established Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services Center will foster collaboration among students, industry leaders, alumni, and global organizations. Through real-world experience, students will be well-prepared for careers in fields such as tourism and hospitality, modern management, and business administration.

Honored Guests at the Launch Event

The launch event was graced by

Asst. Prof. Dr. Warawit Janchai, Dean of the College of Arts, Media, and Technology

Asst. Prof. Dr. Rawee Jansong, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities

Additionally, an official signing ceremony was held to certify the center, reinforcing Chiang Mai University's commitment to career development and industry engagement. The signing event took place on February 11, 2025, at Ang Kaew Villa, Chiang Mai University.

Project Team Members, The initiative is led by a distinguished project team, including:

Asst. Prof. Dr. Yuthasak Chatkaewnapanon, Project Manager and Head of the Department of Tourism
Asst. Prof. Dr. Pattarraporn Khuwuthyakorn, Project Manager
Asst. Prof. Dr. Orawit Thinnukool, Project Coordinator
Asst. Prof. Dr. Uraiwan Hanwong, Associate Dean, Faculty of Education
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pratana Jaiphong, Director of the Lifelong Learning College
Asst. Prof. Dr. Raslapat Suteeca, Head of the Academic Division and WIL Center Supervisor
Asst. Prof. Dr. Atchara Kamaksorn, Project Researcher and Acting to the dean of organization standard

The launch event also featured the Zero-Waste Management Curriculum Development for Tourism and Hospitality, a key initiative that aims to promote sustainable environmental practices in the tourism industry. These projects reaffirm CMU’s role as a leader in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and its commitment to preparing students for the evolving demands of the global industry.

This initiative represents a major step forward in tourism and hospitality development, supporting skill sustainability while enhancing the capacity of Thai graduates to enter the tourism industry as professionals.

The centre is currently located at the College of Media Arts and Technology.