Cooperative Academic Institute was designed to be a significant strategic approach in Cooperative Development Plan B.E. 2546-2549 approved by National Board of Cooperative Development Committee: NBCDC as well as the Cabinet. NBCDC has requested to join hands with Kasetsart University in the establishment and operation of Cooperative Academic Institute in the hope that it will be a center for academic cooperation network among educational institutions, government units, and domestic including international cooperative movement groups. The institute will be working as a supporter for personnel development, research based knowledge development and various academic services providing aiming at the strengthened and united cooperative movement.

    In realizing that one of the university’s mission is to be a strong academic resource that can direct and play a leading role in community and social development focusing on their sustainable self relianceability, the Institute was finally established according to the Kasetsart University Board Announcement dated September 15, 2004. The Cooperative Academic Institute Committee consisted of the University President as the Chairman, and 12 committee members are vice president and representatives from government units and cooperative movements. Chief executive for the Institute is the Institute Director who is assigned with the administrative duties according to the Institute Committee’s policy.