From Moscow to Bangkok: ICID Showcases Project-Based Learning at International Forum

The 2nd Russian-Thai Investment Forum took place in Bangkok from October 29 to 31, bringing together government officials, business leaders, and representatives from universities and creative industries. A major focus of the event was educational cooperation and new ways to engage students in international projects.

This theme took center stage on October 30 during the Moscow Government’s panel session, "Directions for Bilateral Interregional Cooperation", moderated by Natalia Logutova. Representatives from top Moscow universities shared their insights and future plans for partnering with Thailand across education, culture, and sports.

During the talks, a Thammasat University representative stressed the need to involve students in global initiatives early on, bridge the gap between academia and business, and commercialize student projects. As Logutova pointed out, this philosophy closely mirrors the educational model at the Institute for Creative Industries Development (ICID). Throughout their studies, ICID students collaborate directly with businesses, cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, and ultimately get the chance to commercialize their own work through the "Startup as a Thesis" program.

Furthermore, practical university partnerships do more than just boost students' career prospects—they also drive regional development. Wrapping up the session, Logutova highlighted how student exchanges and joint university projects make regions more attractive. This reflects ICID’s own track record of fostering local creative industries, building regional brands, and boosting tourism, particularly through continuing professional education (CPE) programs.

The conversation around bridging education and business continued on October 31 at the "Platform Economy: Creative Industries" panel. Speakers from the Tchaikovsky Center of Musical Culture and the Thai Animation and Computer Graphics Association underscored the value of students working alongside cultural institutions and commercial enterprises. This synergy helps young professionals break into the industry while giving organizations access to driven talent with fresh perspectives.

Building on this, Logutova shared examples of ICID student startups and introduced "Zaneslo"—a club that brings together students from various HSE University faculties to help develop small Russian towns. Its internationally focused initiatives include a field expedition to Pinega and a global youth festival.

The success of these projects set the stage for discussing future cross-border partnerships. Logutova emphasized that a project-based approach allows students and faculty from different countries to start collaborating well before any formal academic exchanges or dual-degree programs are signed. Such teamwork, especially when supported by digital tools, provides a unique opportunity to explore different educational models and share professional expertise.

Ultimately, it is this kind of hands-on engagement that drives mutual interest, laying the groundwork for universities to move toward concrete, joint educational initiatives.