We are pleased to welcome the 2026 cohort of students to the Master’s in International Development Studies (MAIDS) and the Graduate Program in International Development Studies (GRID) at the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University.
On 03 August 2026, we began orientation on campus at the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University. This year, students from more than 25 countries applied, and we are excited to welcome our new students to MAIDS-GRID in 2026. On behalf of the Faculty of Political Science, Dean Associate Professor Dr. Prakorn Siriprakob made opening remarks and welcomed the new students to the program.
MAIDS-GRID Program Director Dr. Carl Middleton, together with Deputy Directors Dr. Sorasich Swangslip and Dr. Khathaleeya Liamdee, and the MAIDS-GRID administrative team, welcomed the new students and introduced the program team. The course lecturers also joined online to welcome students and gave a brief introduction to their courses within the MAIDS-GRID Program. MAIDS-GRID alumni and current and graduated students shared their personal experiences. Gabrielle, Ryan, and Toa from the MAIDS class of 2025 shared reflections on their master’s journey, while Pred (GRID graduate) and Ann (current student) shared their Ph.D. journey, offering valuable insights and their educational pathway.
The one-day, on-campus orientation allowed new students to get to know each other and learn program structure and administrative processes to get ready to begin unpacking their educational journey ahead. The on-campus tour included the faculty’s learning facilities, including the Rufus D. Smith & Chamnan Yuvaboon Libraries, the co-working space, and the educational technology and computer center. The school tour extended across the Chulalongkorn University campus, taking in the Archives, Chulalongkorn University Museum, King Chulalongkorn and King Vajiravudh Monuments, Office of Academic Resources (Main Library), Thai House, CU Sports Complex, and Chulalongkorn Health Service Center.
MAIDS-GRID orientation: continuing the journey in Amphawa
On 6-7 August 2026, the new cohort traveled to Amphawa, Samut Songkhram, for the continued orientation retreat built around engagement, reflective discussions, workshops, and cultural activities. Beyond the structured academic sessions, students had the chance to get to know each other and bond with their peers while experiencing the program’s collaborative spirit firsthand. Students also openly discussed their expectations and aspirations for the program.
Dr. Carl introduced MAIDS-GRID's shared vision and mission, focusing on developing knowledge for critical change and aligning the program’s learning outcomes with ASEAN quality assessment standards. Academic sessions covered research preparation, thesis requirements, and curriculum structures. Students also took part in a session on AI policy and tools led by Dr. Khathaleeya, giving them a solid foundation in using AI responsibly as they begin their studies.
The retreat wrapped up with a boat trip to visit the fireflies in Ampawa and a visit to the Ampawa-Chaipattananurak Foundation, where students learned about local livelihoods and sustainable development in the community. It was a great start to our development studies. We learned by looking through the eyes of students and the community. Now, we are ready for a year of sharing and learning together!
Ei Ei Lin
Communication Coordinator
MAIDS-GRID Program
