Sudthatada (Kate) Wattanavekin, Graduating Class of 2016 Retrospective: Dr Tej Bunnag, Chairman of the Foundation Board

Retrospective Dr Tej Bunnag, Chairman of the Foundation Board

Chair of the Foundation Board Dr Tej Bunnag has had a storied career as statesman and diplomat. A former Foreign Minister and Ambassador to posts including the US, China, France and the UN Office at Geneva, he also played an important role in the establishment of relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China. However, it is his time as Chairman of the Foundation Board of Bangkok Patana that has left an indelible mark upon the school. His commitment since he took the role of Chairman in 2004 has seen incredible accomplishments; the start and finish of the 10 Year Master Plan that saw the addition of solar energy, filtered fresh air systems and new buildings including the Science Centre, Dance Studios, Secondary and Primary Libraries, Senior Studies and many more facilities; and the launch of the Bangkok Patana Capital Fund that supports the building and renovation of facilities to keep the school at the cutting edge of international education and to provide 21st Century learning environments. Dr Tej oversaw the transference of the school’s license from under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Foundation Board itself, with Dr Tej as the authorised representative.

During his tenure he attended nearly every graduation ceremony to present students with their diplomas, he saw it as a privilege to watch his beloved students flourish and succeed. As a former Patana parent he has seen the school grow from strength to strength. The Board and Management have seen his guiding role to provide advice, especially on sensitive issues in times of difficulties, of which COVID-19 has been the latest challenge. He is looking forward to handing the reins over to his successor, former Governor of the Bank of Thailand Dr Tarisa Watanagase, with the knowledge that the school is in a strong position to move forward into a new era.