Thai university faces legal threats over unauthorised police training
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) will initiate legal proceedings against Siam University if it fails to address the issue of a Chinese executive allegedly conducting an unauthorised volunteer police training programme for Chinese nationals.
Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi stated yesterday, January 7, that Siam University confirmed its lack of involvement or awareness regarding the programme and did not collect any fees. However, the course had been promoted using the university’s logo, violating the Private Higher Education Institutions Act BE 2546 (2003).
The revelation of a Chinese executive organising the programme and charging 38,000 baht (US$1,100) per participant surfaced last week. The programme reportedly had over 20 participants. The university maintained that the incident was the result of an individual’s actions.
The minister stressed that the ministry would proceed with charges against the university if it does not complain promptly.
“The university should expedite the process within one to two days, as there is no reason to delay. We are all awaiting a response.”
The university informed the ministry that the programme was a one-time event, adding that a disciplinary committee should be formed to investigate the Chinese executive. Depending on the findings, actions such as a warning, salary deduction, or contract termination could be taken.
Siam University President Pornchai Mongkhonvanit asserted that the university was a victim and had no involvement in the programme.
Upon receiving the report about the controversial programme held from December 25 to December 27, the university established a fact-finding committee on January 3. By January 5, it was determined that an outsider, familiar with police officers from Metropolitan Police Bureau 3, had organised the volunteer police training programme.
Li Zhang, Assistant to the President for International Activities at Siam University, was identified as the organiser. The project had not been approved by the university, reported Bangkok Post.
Additionally, Pornchai noted that Li had signed a letter purportedly from the university. If authentic, it should have been signed by the president or a designated individual. The university did not receive any financial gain from the training course.
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