By: ATN News
Bangkok: The United Peace Keepers Federal Council (UNPKFC) has launched the Global Space Leadership Program, a groundbreaking initiative emphasizing the inclusion of youth in space exploration and education. The official press conference, held under the theme "Space Access for All," marked a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts of several esteemed organizations to inspire and educate the next generation.
The Global Space Leadership Program was established through the joint efforts of the UNPKFC, the Himalayan Space Centre (HSC), the United Nations Association Coachella Valley California, USA Chapter (UNA-USA), King Prajadhipok Institute’s Society (KPIS), and Adventure of Humanity. This initiative aims to advance and support their collective commitment to expanding global cooperation through collaborative projects that promote inspiration, hope, and knowledge. Education and imagination are positioned as crucial tools in addressing urgent challenges such as climate change, which profoundly impacts humanity.
The program aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4: "Quality Education" and SDG 17: "Partnership for the Goals." It aims to enhance learning processes and technological development, thereby contributing to sustainable development and fostering positive global transformation.
Dr. Thitima Lorpiphat, President of KPIS and an expert member of the King Prajadhipok’s Institute Council, chaired the opening ceremony. In her address, she emphasized the importance of empowering youth through education and global cooperation. "Our goal is to inspire and equip the younger generation to tackle the pressing issues of our time, with climate change being at the forefront," she stated.
Dr. Aphinita Chaichana, Global President of UNPKFC and Global Chairman Southeast Asia of UNA-USA, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the initiative. She acknowledged key partners, including Mr. Afroz Mamun, Founder and CEO of HSC and Space Camp Ambassador NASA USA, Ruta Muda Princess Karen Cantrell, President of UNA-USA, and Mr. Richard Nilsson, President of Adventure of Humanity, an organization established by Michael Jackson and Nelson Mandela. Dr. Chaichana expressed confidence that these partnerships would empower youth to shape the future more effectively.
The program, launched on the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary, is designed to provide opportunities for youth to access quality education equally and for free. It will engage 3,000 students across six cohorts, each comprising 500 participants. This ambitious initiative is supported by a coalition that includes the Dr. Thiam Chokwatana Foundation, Saha Pathanapibul Public Company Limited, Nawaminthrachinuthit Satri Witthaya School 2, and Satri Witthaya School.
A highlight of the event was the appointment of "Youth Ambassadors for Peace," who will participate in peace-building activities and gain academic knowledge related to the SDGs. This preparation is intended to bolster their confidence and resilience, promoting a culture of peace globally. Additionally, Miss Rangsima Thongpunchung, Secretary to the Commission on Solving Debt and Poverty Problems and Reducing Inequality in the House of Representatives, was appointed Country Director of HSC Thailand.
In a significant accolade, Dr. Aphinita Chaichana was congratulated on her new role on the Special Advisory Board of the United States and as a global chair for the Southeast Asia region of UNA-USA. She is also the first Thai recipient of the King Charles Leadership Award from the Royal Society of London, granted by the Royal Society of St. George.
The event was attended by numerous notable figures and organizations from both governmental and private sectors, including the Thai-Korean Veterans Association under Royal Patronage, UNPKFC Young Peace Ambassador, Nawaminthrachinuthit Satri Witthaya School 2, the Thai Song Dam Association, and the Thai Song Dam Foundation. These partnerships will ensure that youth from diverse backgrounds have access to this transformative program, underscoring the commitment to "Space Access for All."
The launch of the Global Space Leadership Program represents a significant step towards democratizing space education and fostering global cooperation. Through this initiative, the participating organizations aim to create a future where all youth have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from advancements in space exploration and technology.
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