>> A law should be passed to let university lecturers own research conducted using state funds so that they can use it to start or develop commercial businesses, according to Science and Technology Minister Suvit Maesincee.
Mr Suvit said the proposed law was suggested by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. The premier said the legislation should be enacted as soon as possible to widen the use of academic research to generate commercial benefits.
University staff who engage in research funded by state money should own them instead of the respective universities.
This will help develop start-up businesses in the country.
The minister said a similar law was enacted in the US which changed the country's economy and drove it towards prosperity.
Mr Suvit said drafting of the law suggested by Gen Prayut is expected to be finished in a month. "It will certainly transform Thai universities," he added.
The minister was speaking at a press conference to announce the result of a workshop between the ministry and rectors from 12 research-specialising universities.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Innovation, Research and Science will be tasked with developing the country's human resources in line with the Thailand 4.0 policy.
Mr Suvit said the new ministry will lead by example and not be bound by red tape and take on less bureaucratic functions
The ministry will assume a robust role in moving the country forward through the adoption of research as a basis for industrial developments. The industrial sector represents some 75% of the country's overall investments worth hundreds of billions of baht.
"Thailand is heading for a major phase of mass developments," he said.
