Public Higher Education Institutions
Each public university has its own act empowering the University Council to function as the governing body. The President operates the university according to the policy laid down by the University Council which comprises Chairperson, President, Deans, Directors of institutes of the university and other qualified persons not salaried by the university. The Dean’s Council and the Faculty Senate are two advisory bodies which may also take part in governing the university.
Private Higher Education Institutions
Since 1979 the Ministry of University Affairs has been the coordinating unit between the government and private higher education institutions. The Office of the Permanent Secretary serves as secretariat to the Private University Committee which gives advice to the Minister of University Affairs on relevant rules and regulations needed to ensure the standards and accreditation of private higher education institutions. The committee also considers granting approval to the programs of study offered by these institutions.
Each private institution has its own council which is the administrative body responsible for the general functioning of the institution as well as organizing its internal administrative structure.
Autonomous Universities
An innovative way of university administration has been introduced to promote flexibility of university operation. Such universities have their own administrative structure and budgeting system for self-governance and full autonomy, allowing decision making on administrative and management matters of the university to be handled by the university itself. Currently, there are 13 autonomous universities and efforts are being made to encourage existing public universities to move out of the bureaucratic system.
Council of University Presidents of Thailand
The Council of University Presidents of Thailand was established in 1972 for high-level executives of public higher education institutions of the country to share opinions and experiences through regular meetings.
It also serves as the coordinating arm of public universities for mutual assistance and cooperation on development projects such as staff development and improvement of the qualifications of faculty members beyond those undertaken by the Office of the Higher Education Commission. In addition,
it makes recommendations on relevant issues to the Office of the Higher Education Commission and the government.
Association of Private Higher Education Institutions of Thailand
Private higher education institutions have formed the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions of Thailand. This organization seeks to create greater cooperation between individual institutions as well as between its members and the government. It was originally founded in 1969. It adopted its present name in 1979 and has been instrumental in ensuring smooth administration of private higher education institutions since its founding.