Presenting Soft Power Through Higher Education’s Missions

Abstract

"Education is a fundamental cornerstone for everyone. It aids in refining and developing individuals to grow as efficient members of a productive society. Furthermore, it enables people to sustain themselves, support others, and contribute to the welfare of society and the nation. Looking from another perspective, educational institutions themselves, in providing education to people, have an impact on a country, notably in terms of reputation. For instance, when we think of the United States, we often associate it with the prestigious name of Harvard University. Reputation also influences people within a society when viewed at a smaller scale.

Higher education institutions in Thailand share a collective mission defined by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (HESRI). This mission is akin to the objectives of universities in Thailand. This academic article aims to investigate the practices that generate the soft power of universities through the four missions set by the HESRI, which include producing graduates, conducting research, providing academic services to society, and preserving cultural heritage. This exploration involves studying and gathering data from published documents of higher education institutions, alongside academic research across various disciplines related to all four missions. The author will consider the content through the lens of power dynamics, explaining power issues concerning higher education institutions."