BANGKOK, 26 June 2026 — The School of Liberal Arts at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the International Literacy Association (ILA), the Thailand Literacy Association (TiLA), Chulalongkorn University, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Library Network, and the Thai Library Association under the Royal Patronage of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, successfully co-hosted the international academic conference, Asian Literacy Conference 2026.
Held from 18-19 June 2026, at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), the conference centered around the timely theme “Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI.” The event aimed to elevate and drive new directions for language learning and literacy advancement amidst the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
The international forum was officially opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, Information Technology, and International Affairs, representing the President of STOU. Asst. Prof. Vasan Rattanapoka, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, warmly welcomed international delegates.
This significant gathering was made possible through an extensive network of domestic and international scholars, coordinated by Emeritus Prof. Dr. Namtip Wipawin, President of TiLA and a member of the executive committee for STOU’s Ph.D. program in Information Science (School of Liberal Arts).
Highlights of the Two-Day Conference
18 June 2026 | Study Tour & Network Building
Delegates embarked on a study tour at the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University. This was followed by a meeting of the International Development in Asia Committee (IDAC), which brought together literacy association representatives from across Asia, including Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand.
A key highlight was a special session by Mr. Sakil Malik, Chief Growth and Strategy Advisor for Childhood Education International, who shared insights on applying research to improve education and literacy at both community and organizational levels. The day also featured poster presentations from local and international researchers.
June 19, 2026 | Keynote & Panel Discussions
The second day focused on special lectures and academic presentations regarding multilingual literacy and AI literacy. A major highlight was the panel discussion on “Case Studies of Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI,” moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Lugsamee Nuamthanom Kimura from STOU’s School of Liberal Arts.
Distinguished international speakers included Dr. Merlene Alon, Ms. Linda Warfel,
Dr. Rizalina C. Labanda, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Banjerd Jongapirattanakul, who exchanged diverse perspectives on reshaping literacy development in the current era of AI revolution. Co-hosting this prestigious international conference underscores the vital role of STOU’s School of Liberal Arts in fostering global academic networks. By promoting knowledge in literacy, lifelong learning, and educational digital technology, STOU continues to empower learners to thrive and work effectively in today’s fast-evolving digital and AI-driven society.
