Universities and Their Role in Supporting Global Citizenship: A Case Study of Kasetsart University’s Students International Capacity Building Programme

Abstract

This article aimed to (1) study the development of personal characteristic of students from Kasetsart University’s Students International Capacity Building Programme under the Sub-Project of Academic Cooperation Project with Foreign Counterpart Agencies in 2023, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University, and (2) study mechanisms of Kasetsart University’s Students International Capacity Building Programme. This was qualitative research. A sample of 7 cases were drawn from faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University and International Affairs Division (IAD), Kasetsart University. They were selected by purposive sampling method. The instrument for collecting data was in-dept interview. The results of this research revealed that students from Kasetsart University’s Students International Capacity Building Programme under the Sub-Project of Academic Cooperation Project with Foreign Counterpart Agencies in 2023, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University have developed their own personality in 3 elements of Global Citizenship. There are knowledge and understanding, skills, and attitudes. However, the extent of development varies across these elements, influenced by the unique experiences each student gained from interactions with different foreign counterpart agencies. Kasetsart University’s Students International Capacity Building Programme is supported by four key mechanisms: policy, personnel, budgetary support, and process. Based on the major findings, it was recommended as follows: the university and Faculty of Social Sciences should integrate Global Citizenship concept into the teaching curriculum. This is to provide students with knowledge and understanding in preparation before going on an exchange with partner agencies.