On 19 August 2026, the Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, organized the “Strategic Innovation & Creative Thinking Masterclass” at Room I-111 (Slope), Building 1, Faculty of Agro-Industry. The event welcomed more than 150 students and provided a dynamic learning and knowledge-sharing platform focused on strategic thinking, creative thinking, and innovation development, featuring insights from experts and experienced professionals in business and food innovation.

The event featured two key sessions:

1. Strategic Innovation & Creative Thinking Masterclass

The session was led by Mr. Trichit Metharatnachot, CEO and Co-Founder of Meephakdee Company Limited, who shared practical insights and experiences in Strategic Innovation and Creative Thinking. He encouraged students to recognize opportunities to transform creative ideas into innovations and businesses that respond to market needs, while connecting theoretical concepts with real-world business experiences.

2. “Back-To-Back Food Innovation Contest Champs!” Panel Discussion 

Another highlight was a panel discussion featuring winners of the Food Innovation Contest in 2026, 2025, 2023, and 2020: Asst. Prof. Suphat Phongthai, Ph.D, Dr. Pipat Tangjaidee, Assoc. Prof. Rajnibhas Sukeaw Samakradhamrongthai, Ph.D., and Asst. Prof. Shitapan Bai-Ngew, Ph.D.

The panelists shared their success stories and behind-the-scenes experiences, covering everything from idea generation and product development processes to working techniques, teamwork, and real competition experiences. The session provided students with valuable lessons from direct experiences that they can apply to developing their own food innovation projects.