Chulalongkorn University
Published on 12 May 2026
Chulalongkorn University, through the College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies, the Faculty of Medicine, and the College of Public Health Sciences, in collaboration with Thailand’s Department of Health under the Ministry of Public Health, organized the distinguished lecture event “Vela at Chulalongkorn” as part of the official opening ceremony of the 4th cohort of the Executive Program in Medical and Health Leadership, or VELA (Vitality Enhancement and Longevity Academy), on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium.
The event was presided over by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Dr. Pongpol Vorapani, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, spoke about the department’s role and collaboration in developing the program, while Prof. Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich, Assistant to the President for Special Affairs and Chair of the VELA Program, presented the program report.
The “Vela at Chulalongkorn” distinguished lecture welcomed Ms. Nualphan Lamsam, Chief Executive Officer of Muang Thai Life Assurance Public Company Limited and President of the Football Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, who shared her experiences in a lecture titled “Leading with Energy: Lessons from Life, Sport, and Business for Longevity.”
Her talk emphasized how leaders can enhance not only their own capabilities but also those of their organizations while contributing to sustainable social development.
The VELA distinguished lecture series has continued through its 4th cohort with the goal of allowing participants to learn from exemplary leaders who inspire through knowledge-sharing and experience. The program also seeks to build a network of leaders from diverse sectors to help drive Thailand toward a high-quality longevity society.
The event welcomed more than 300 participants and honored guests in a warm and lively atmosphere. There were also exhibition booths showcasing medical and health innovations from various faculties at Chulalongkorn University, reflecting the university’s strong research capabilities and potential for practical application.
Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stated, “The world is entering an era where people are living longer, while the meaning of life has expanded beyond longevity to include balanced well-being, vitality, and the ability to maintain quality of life at every stage of life.” Developing leaders who understand the dimensions of health, technology, and society is therefore essential for the country’s long-term advancement.”
Dr. Pongpol Vorapani, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, discussed Thailand’s mission to promote health in an aging society, emphasizing the role of organizational leaders in fostering a “culture of health” within organizations and extending its impact throughout society so that people can enjoy strong and sustainable quality lives.
Prof. Dr. Sathirakorn Pongpanich explained the philosophy behind the VELA program: “VELA was designed to help executives understand the healthcare system from a holistic perspective through academic learning, experience-sharing, and the creation of leadership networks capable of turning knowledge into real change at both organizational and national levels.”
In her lecture, Ms. Nualphan Lamsam reflected on leadership in the modern world, emphasizing the importance of “energy” in thought, attitude, and action to help organizations overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
Drawing from real-life experiences in both business and sports—fields characterized by constant change and high pressure—she stressed the importance of maintaining personal health and managing one’s energy over the long term in order to sustain balance between professional responsibilities and quality of life. Her ideas closely aligned with the principles of longevity, which emphasize living with vitality and meaning at every stage of life.
Her presentation was meant to inspire participants to apply the concept of “the power of leadership” to enhance their own potential, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to sustainable social development.
The 4th cohort of the Executive Program in Medical and Health Leadership, or VELA (Vitality Enhancement and Longevity Academy), was officially introduced at a press conference on February 17, 2026, at Room 202, Chamchuri 4 Building. The program received strong interest and accepted 108 participants, consisting of senior executives, entrepreneurs, and organizational leaders involved in Thailand’s healthcare and wellness industries.
The VELA program will hold classes every Wednesday over a four-month period from May to September 2026 at work, Central Park Offices, as well as other key learning venues, including the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University. The curriculum also includes domestic and international study visits related to healthcare and medicine to broaden participants’ perspectives and connect knowledge to global best practices.
Participants will gain modern knowledge and expertise in healthcare and medical technologies from both Thai and international experts across multiple dimensions, supporting Thailand’s sustainable development as a regional Medical Hub.
For updates and application information:
Website: https://lifelong.chula.ac.th/vela?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Facebook: velaExecEd
LINE Official: @velaExecEd
Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/302905/
