THAI LANGUAGE LEARNING AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOFT SKILLS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY OF MAHACHULALONGKORNRAJAVIDYALAYA UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Education in the 21st century emphasizes the development of learners with knowledge, skills, and morality in line with Thailand’s National Education Plan (2017–2036), which highlights critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability for global citizenship. Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU), as a Buddhist higher education institution, aims to enhance both Thai and international students’ academic competence alongside ethical values and essential soft skills for multicultural society. This article examines the role of Thai language learning in developing soft skills among international students at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University MCU. A synthesis of documents, research, and case studies reveals that Thai language learning contributes to multiple dimensions of soft skills: (1) communication skills, enhancing language use for academic and social contexts; (2) collaboration skills, through group activities and practical learning; (3) adaptability skills, gained from exposure to Thai culture and social integration; and (4) social interaction skills, developed through interaction with peers and local communities. Thai language learning in the context of a Buddhist university is therefore not merely linguistic training but also a process of cultivating soft skills that support students’ learning, adaptation, and holistic development in the digital age.