On 18 November 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy and Kanda University of International Studies co-hosted the 16^th Thai Speech Contest at the Millennium Hall of Kanda University of International Studies. This year's competition drew 22 participants from five universities, namely Kanda University of International Studies, Osaka University, Obirin University, Keio University and Kanda Institute of Foreign Languages.

On this occasion, Ms. Amornratna Charuratna, Minister (Economic and Financial), delivered the opening remarks on behalf of the Embassy. Moreover, Minister Amornratana, along with three other representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, joined in the judging panel for the contest.

The outstanding prizes were awarded to Mr. Daigo OGASAWARA, a second-year student form Osaka University, and Ms. Sara YANAKA, a fourth-year student from Kanda University of International Studies. The prizes included a scholarship of 50,000 yen from the Embassy.

The Embassy is delighted to observe the growing interest among Japanese students in learning Thai language. Many students also started learning Thai after being captivated by Thai dramas. All participating students demonstrated enthusiasm in developing their Thai language skills. The Embassy is committed to continuing its support for Japanese students to further practice Thai language with the hope that they will find opportunities to use it in their daily lives and future careers.