12 April 2024Vidyasirimedhi Auditorium was the main venue for the meeting of French-Thai Collaboration on Wednesday 10 April with the title “ChiraChem Symposium 2024”. Presence among prominent French and Thai scholars are:(1) Professor Dr. Pimchai Chaiyen as the President of VISTEC, (2) Professor Dr. Dominique Baillargreat as the Regional Director of the CNRS Representative Office in ASEAN, (3) Professor Dr. Xavier Grosmaitre as the Science and Higher Education Attache, and (4) Professor Dr. Alexander Kuhn-Associate Professor Dr. Chularat Wattanakit as the key founders of ChiraChem. Professor Alexander Kuhn mentioned at the meeting that “ChiraChem has its roots from a long-term collaboration that started in 2006 with Professor Jumras Limtrakul and continued in 2015 with Associate Professor Chularat Wattanakit”.  Altogether 15 research papers were presented at the symposium by French and Thai scientists. Dr. Laurent Bouffier from Bordeaux University who participated in the Franco-Thai Symposium in 2017 told us, “ We had the meeting in the Pailin Auditorium at that time and I could see the marvelous VISTEC already. Coming to VISTEC in 2024, I witnessed so many developments both in science and the infrastructure of the institute. The good nucleation that VISTEC had at the beginning resulted in a beautiful crystal growth”.

2 April 2024VISTEC celebrated its 9th anniversary (entering its 10th year) on 2 April 2024. On this significant day, we hosted two meaningful events: a 100-tree planting initiative and a Blood Donation drive.These activities contribute greatly to our social fabric and well-being. Tree planting not only fosters environmental sustainability but also enhances the beauty of our surroundings, purifies the air we breathe, and provides habitats for various forms of life. By participating in this initiative, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving nature for future generations and combating climate change.Likewise, the Blood Donation event underscores our dedication to saving lives and serving our community. Blood donations play a crucial role in healthcare, providing life-saving transfusions for those in need due to accidents, surgeries, or medical conditions. Through our collective efforts, we contribute to maintaining a stable blood supply, ensuring that hospitals can meet the needs of patients during emergencies.Furthermore, we are honored to welcome new monks from the Pa Yup Temple, situated near VISTEC, to participate in the Blood Donation event. Their presence adds a spiritual dimension to our efforts, emphasizing the importance of compassion, altruism, and solidarity in serving others.Together, these initiatives exemplify VISTEC's commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and fostering a culture of giving back. We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of these events. Let us continue to work together for the betterment of society and the well-being of all.