The Role of Universities in the Development of Greater Mekong Subregional Economic Cooperation

Abstract

Most individuals interviewed were satisfied with past and present GMS university cooperative activities. However, some were frustrated over problems arising from complex bureaucracy, political intervention, and language differences. They viewed the insufficiency of funds, the lack of information networks, and the lack of firm and precise policies for GMS academic cooperation as critical issues, working against the potential role of universities. International sharing of resources, cooperative research studies, and international study and teaching visits were suggested as practical measures for future cooperation. The fields of study recommended for further cooperative programs are economics, education, agriculture, engineering, health science, tourism, and environmental studies.