Tag: Chulalongkorn University

Professor Dr. Kumkom Pornprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, led a delegation from Chulalongkorn University to participate in the Multi-University, Multi-Disciplinary Asia-Pacific Art Forum, held on June 24, 2026, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The forum provided a significant platform for artists, researchers, and scholars from across the Asia-Pacific region to exchange knowledge and perspectives on art, culture, research, and collaboration among higher education institutions specializing in the arts.

The Chulalongkorn University delegation included Associate Professor Dr. Pornprapit Phoasavadi, Vice Dean for International Affairs; Professor Kamol Phaosavasdi, Director of the Master of Arts Program in Curatorial Practice; and Assistant Professor Dr. Haisang Javanalikhikara, Vice Dean for Research. The delegation presented two academic papers, participated in panel discussions and scholarly exchanges, and strengthened collaborative networks with leading art institutions and universities from around the world.

The forum provided an important opportunity to promote international, academic, and cultural cooperation while fostering dialogue on creative practice, interdisciplinary research, and the development of contemporary art within the Asia-Pacific context.

On this occasion, Chulalongkorn University, through its Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, was honored to be selected as the host of the Asia-Pacific Art Forum 2027, which will take place from August 24-26, 2027, under the theme “Vessels of Resonance.” The forum will explore the role of art, culture, communities, and educational institutions as vessels through which artistic creation connects memory, identity, knowledge, and imagination across borders and generations.

The 2027 forum will provide a platform for artists, scholars, curators, students, Chulalongkorn University students, and arts practitioners from throughout the Asia-Pacific region to exchange knowledge, present creative works, and build collaborative networks in the fields of art and curatorial studies. Together, participants will contribute to advancing art, communities, and culture at both regional and international levels, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Chulalongkorn University is eager to welcome participants from across the Asia-Pacific region to Bangkok in 2027 and to create a dynamic space for learning, creativity, and cultural exchange under the theme “Vessels of Resonance,” inspiring meaningful dialogue and new possibilities for the future of the arts in the Asia-Pacific region.

Read more: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/415633/

Get to Know Anthrax: A Serious Zoonotic Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Proper Prevention Guidelines from a Chula Expert 

“Anthrax,” a disease outbreak affecting ruminant animals, has become one of the most widely discussed and searched diseases online, as it is a dangerous zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Reports of outbreaks and fatalities have appeared in several countries, including Thailand. For example, last year (2025), an anthrax outbreak occurred during April–May in Mukdahan Province, resulting in one death. Statistics since 1991 also revealed 19 deaths among Thai people caused by anthrax infection. 

Although anthrax outbreaks in Thailand have not been severe or persistent, preparedness and accurate knowledge remain the best forms of protection. In this regard, Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon Luangthongkum from the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, explains how the spores of the bacterium can survive in the environment for up to ten years and provides guidance on safety measures for farmers and consumers.  

      

What Is “Anthrax”?

Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This bacterium is capable of forming spores, allowing it to survive in suitable environments for decades. As a result, the spores can contaminate soil, animal hair, hides, and meat.

“Thailand has reported sporadic cases of anthrax from time to time, such as in Don Tan District, Mukdahan Province, last year. In addition, outbreaks have previously been reported in other provinces, including Tak, Kanchanaburi, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, and Phichit. However, these outbreaks have not been continuous,” explained Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon. 

Anthrax is most commonly found in herbivorous and ruminant animals, such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. The ways to help determine whether an animal is infected with anthrax are the following: 

• Cattle and buffaloes: Animals infected with anthrax often die suddenly. Dark-colored blood may be seen oozing from natural body openings such as the nose, mouth, eyes, and anus. The carcass typically does not undergo normal rigor mortis and may become bloated and decompose rapidly. 
•  Other animals: Signs are generally less distinctive. Some animals may develop swelling around the neck, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, difficulty swallowing, diarrhea, etc. 
• “Other animal species, such as pigs and horses, as well as pets like dogs and cats, can also become infected with anthrax. However, dogs and cats are quite resistant to the disease. In most cases, these pets become infected by consuming raw meat of animals that have died of anthrax.” 

3 Ways of Anthrax Transmission from Animals and How to Recognize the Symptoms 

Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon explained that anthrax can be transmitted from animals to humans through contact with diseased animals, animal products derived from infected animals, or environments contaminated with anthrax spores. Such cases allow the pathogen to enter the body. Anthrax can infect humans through three main routes, each with a different level of severity, as follows: 

1. Skin infection: Caused by contact, this type of infection is most commonly found in people who work in occupations involving animal slaughter, as well as people who have abrasions or wounds on their hands, even minor ones. If they come into contact with meat or animal carcasses infected with anthrax, there is a chance the bacteria can enter the body.

Initial symptoms: The wound has a distinctive appearance known as an “eschar”—the area around the wound is swollen, and the center of the wound is dark, resembling dead tissue, similar to a cigarette burn.

2. Ingestion: Caused by eating raw or undercooked meat from infected animals.

Initial symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and in some cases bloody diarrhea

3. Inhalation: Caused by breathing in microscopic anthrax spores. This type of infection most commonly occurs with workers in textile manufacturing facilities, particularly when the animal wool or hides used in production originate from areas affected by anthrax outbreaks. 

“The severity of anthrax generally depends on the route through which the infection enters the body. However, inhalational is the most alarming form because it can cause severe pneumonia if a large number of spores are inhaled. In such cases, the mortality rate can be as high as 95%,” explained Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon.

Who is at risk? 

1. Farmers and livestock raisers who come into close contact with infected animals without realizing it.
2. Workers involved in animal slaughter and meat processing, particularly those handling carcasses of animals that have died suddenly or under unusual circumstances. 
3. Workers in the wool, hide, and leather industries, especially in areas where anthrax outbreaks have previously occurred.
4. People who consume raw meat dishes, such as larb, koi, or other foods containing raw animal blood. 

Treatment Approaches for Anthrax in Humans and Animals

Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon affirmed that anthrax is treatable with antibiotics, and the bacterium that causes the disease remains susceptible to the medications commonly used for treatment. 

For human patients, effective treatment options include penicillin, doxycycline, and antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class, such as ciprofloxacin. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the route of infection. For example, infection through the skin typically requires about seven days of treatment. In contrast, inhalational anthrax often requires treatment for up to 60 days, as spores that remain in the lungs may germinate and develop into active bacteria during that period. 

For animals, treatment can be carried out using the same classes of antibiotics. However, the key priority is “prevention” among animals living in high-risk areas. This is achieved through anthrax vaccination, administered to animals after weaning, followed by booster vaccinations every six months for a period of five consecutive years. This vaccination program helps build immunity and protect livestock in areas at risk of anthrax outbreaks.

How Can Anthrax Be “Prevented and Eliminated”? 

Effective management of anthrax requires cooperation from both farmers and consumers. Because this bacterium produces highly resilient spores that can survive in the environment for long periods, prevention involves more than simply avoiding contact with infected animals. It also requires proper handling of “animal carcasses” and the “contaminated environment.” Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon provided the following recommendations for the prevention and control of anthrax:

For Livestock (Cattle and Buffaloes) 

If an animal dies suddenly, especially if dark-colored blood is observed oozing from natural body openings, or even if no bleeding is present but the cause of death is unclear, anthrax should be considered a possible cause.

Do not move, butcher, or cut open the carcass under any circumstances. Opening the carcass exposes the bacteria within the animal’s body to air, triggering the formation of spores. These spores can contaminate the environment and remain viable for a long time. Care should also be taken to prevent other animals, such as dogs and cats, from scavenging the carcass.

Immediately notify livestock authorities so that they can investigate and determine the cause of death.

Dispose of the carcass properly, using one of the following methods:

1. Burial: The carcass should be buried at a depth of approximately two meters, with quicklime spread over it to destroy the pathogen before covering it with soil. 

2. Incineration: Burning the carcass is also an effective disposal method, but it should be carried out in a properly enclosed system to prevent the spread of infectious agents.

Manage contaminated areas appropriately by spreading disinfecting chemicals such as formalin or highly concentrated sodium hydroxide to destroy the pathogen and reduce the likelihood of the pathogen remaining in the environment.

For the Public 

Avoid direct contact with animals or animal carcasses. Wear gloves when handling carcasses and wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with animal remains.

Avoid consuming raw meat, especially meat from animals that have died under unusual or unexplained circumstances. Dishes made with raw meat, such as larb or koi, carry a high risk of anthrax infection. Consume meat that is cooked at a temperature of at least 75°C (167°F). Although cooking temperatures may not destroy anthrax spores, they can kill the vegetative bacteria and help reduce the risk of infection.

Individuals working in textile factories that process animal wool, hair, or hides should wear protective clothing and face masks to help prevent exposure to anthrax through inhalation.

Textile factories that handle animal wool, hair, or hides should ensure adequate ventilation. If the materials originate from areas experiencing anthrax outbreaks, they should be properly disinfected before use to reduce the risk of exposure to anthrax spores that may be present on contaminated animal products.

Although anthrax is not a disease commonly encountered in everyday life, it remains a serious zoonotic disease, particularly when the infection is acquired through the respiratory tract. Any unusual or unexplained animal deaths should be reported to livestock authorities immediately. People should also remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of the disease, avoid high-risk behaviors, and follow proper hygiene practices. These measures not only help prevent anthrax but also reduce the risk of other infectious diseases.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/413172/

At a time when everyone talks about Net Zero and Carbon Neutrality, many still don’t understand what a “Carbon Footprint” is. Varoon Varanyanond, Industrial Partnership Advisor to the Center of Excellence on Petrochemical and Materials Technology (PETROMAT), Chulalongkorn University, chose not to lecture but instead invited people to play the fun card game, Every Day CO₂ Challenge, to understand the meaning of these terms for themselves.

When lectures don’t work, games are the answer.

The story of this game originated with the MA-RE DESIGN project, funded by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), an agency under the German Ministry of Environment, with the main objective of reducing the amount of unmanaged plastic waste flowing into the sea.

Varoon Varanyanond, Industrial Partnership Advisor to the Center of Excellence on

Petrochemical and Materials Technology (PETROMAT), Chulalongkorn University

As an expert in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Varoon participated in this project as an Eco Design consultant, focusing on product design that considers impacts from upstream to downstream. However, he discovered during his work that the understanding of LCA in Thailand was still limited. Although this principle is used as an international standard worldwide,

“When I was a speaker at various forums and projects, it became increasingly clear that this concept was difficult for the average person to understand. Traditional lectures were no longer sufficient. ” Varoon recounts the story that sparked the Every Day CO₂ Challenge card game.

What is LCA, and why is it important?

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an international methodology used to measure the environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle, from beginning to end. The LCA methodology is accepted worldwide.

The 5 Stages of the Product Life Cycle (LCA)

Stage 1 — Acquisition of Raw Materials: Where do the materials come from, and how are they produced?

Stage 2 — Production: How are raw materials transformed into finished products?

Stage 3 — Transportation: How are products delivered from the factory to stores and consumers?

Stage 4 — Usage: How are products used, and for how long?

Stage 5 — Disposal: How are products disposed of, recycled, or otherwise managed at their end-of-life stage?

The problem is that most people focus only on a product’s use and disposal, overlooking the many processes a water bottle or mobile phone undergoes before reaching our hands, as well as the amount of greenhouse gases emitted at each stage.

Why a “Card Game”?

Varoon himself has loved playing games since childhood, both computer games and card games. He believes that if complex content is incorporated into a game, people can have fun while learning. He spent a long time searching for a game that could teach people about LCA and Carbon Footprint, but when he couldn’t find one that met his needs, he decided to create his own.

A card game was chosen because it has several features that meet his needs: it creates interaction between players, encouraging discussion and exchange; it can be played in about 20-30 minutes, suitable for short training sessions; and most importantly, card games are fun and exciting, a timeless appeal for both children and adults.

The game is designed for a wide range of players, from elementary school students to teachers and members of the general public interested in the topic. It supports 3-8 players (6-8 players for maximum fun). Each player receives 5 cards, each card representing a stage of LCA: Raw Materials, Production, Transportation, Usage, and Disposal.

The points on each card represent the amount of greenhouse gas (CO₂) emissions generated at each stage. The lower the score, the lower the emissions and the better the outcome for the environment. Players aim to collect cards with the lowest total score.

The game is divided into 3 main rounds. In the first round, players look at their cards and assess their scores. In the second round, players begin discarding and swapping cards while explaining why they discarded them. The game becomes even more exciting with the addition of Action Cards—special blue cards that allow players to swap cards with one another, introducing an element of surprise, bluffing, and strategic decision-making. The player with the lowest total score at the end of all rounds wins.

What makes this game unique is the role of the “Game Master,” who asks players questions during card discarding. “Why is this card discarded?” “Why is the score high?” or “Why is air transport more expensive than sea transport?” When players are fully engaged in the game, asking questions can help deepen their understanding and reinforce key concepts.

The scores on each card are based on data from internationally recognized environmental impact assessment databases and have been adapted for the card game purpose. For example:

• In the manufacturing process:

Virgin aluminum has a high score, but recycled aluminum has a much lower score.

Using solar power in the manufacturing process results in a lower score than heat treatment.

• In the transportation stage:

Bicycles have a lower carbon footprint than cars.

Cars have a lower carbon footprint than air transport.

• In the disposal process:

Single-use goods have a high score.

Recyclable or repairable goods have a lower score.

Most importantly, these numbers are for learning and comparison purposes only, not for academic research. However, comparing “whether this card is higher or lower” still reflects the reality of the LCA cycle.

From Simple Paper Cards to the First 50 Sets of Recycled Plastic Cards

The game began as a set of simple printed paper cards. After the Thai Packaging Design Association (ThaiPDA) recognized its potential and supported its development, the project secured private-sector support through GIZ. This led to the production of 50 beautifully designed bilingual (Thai-English) sets made from recycled plastic.

The game was subsequently tested with a wide range of participants, including elementary and high school students, university students, faculty and staff from various institutions, seminar participants, and members of the public from the business sector. It received positive feedback from all groups.

Most interestingly, many players began asking questions during the game, such as “Why does virgin aluminum have a higher score than recycled aluminum?” or “Why do single-use items have such high scores?” This is the ultimate goal of the game: not just to memorize, but to encourage questioning.

Why a game in an era where AI can answer everything better than a human teacher?

One of the most interesting questions in this era is, when AI can explain complex topics better than experts, is traditional teaching still necessary? Varoon clearly answered that what AI is unable to replace is “the fun that comes from actually sitting together.”

“AI is far superior to us in terms of content now. They have all the information and can explain things in more detail than I can. Therefore, we have to adapt that content and transform the teaching format to make it fun, concise, and not overly complex,” Varoon explained.

The game incorporates key gamification elements, including competition, rewards, interaction, and the unpredictability introduced by Action Cards, which can change the outcome at any moment. Active learning is woven throughout the game, requiring players to explain their decisions and engage in discussion prompted by the game leader. The goal is to achieve a “just-right” balance between knowledge and enjoyment—not so much content that it feels like a lesson, but not so little that learning is lost.

Future Game Development

When asked about future plans, Varoon clearly stated that they would not develop an online game because it would lose the interaction between players, which is the heart of learning. “The fun of sitting together, laughing together, and bluffing each other face to face cannot be replaced by any screen.”

What they are currently developing is a new game with the same concept, but aimed at the organizational level rather than the product level, to help personnel within organizations understand environmental impacts in a broader dimension. Currently, they are refining the format to make it fun and not overly complex.

The Power of the New Generation: Learning, Awareness, Action

He left three messages for the new generation:

Raise awareness: Acknowledge that the environmental problems created by previous generations will inevitably affect you. Don’t lose hope, but use that energy to push those in power today to make changes.

Learn deeply: In an age of abundant information from AI and the internet, it is important to distinguish between topics that require a broad understanding and those that warrant deeper investigation, while also identifying the root causes of complex issues.

Change behavior: When buying things, don’t just look at whether they are “pretty” or “cheap,” but think about “what it’s made of, how it’s transported, and how the waste will be disposed of after use.” Looking at the big picture across all five steps is the first step towards an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Varoon concluded by saying, “Don’t give up, and don’t wait for change to happen on your own. The strength of the younger generation lies in inspiring others, parents, bosses, or community leaders, to believe that small actions can make a difference and that meaningful change is possible when we act together. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/415033/

Chulalongkorn University, through its Office of Art and Culture Management and Center for Social Engagement, has signed an academic cooperation agreement with National Sun Yat-Sen University. The partnership aims to develop students in the areas of arts, culture, and social engagement through experiential learning activities involving students from both institutions, which will take turns hosting the programs.

This initiative supports the university’s International Growth and Impactful Growth strategies under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, with the principle of “Holistic Growth with Students at the Center.” It also aligns with the CHULA Social Engagement strategy led by Associate Prof. Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University.

The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at National Sun Yat-Sen University. The agreement was signed by Assistant Professor Dr. Sukanya Sompaiboon, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University, and Professor Chih-Wen Kuo, Senior Vice President of National Sun Yat-Sen University. Witnesses included Assistant Professor Dr. Vitchatalum Laovanich, Assistant President for Arts and Culture Promotion; Assistant Professor Dr. Thanasin Chutintaranond, Assistant President for Social Engagement; and Mr. Kunchit Jitratan, Director of the Office of Art and Culture Management.

In addition, faculty members and students from the Department of Speech Communication and Performing Arts, Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University, led by Associate Professor Dr. Preeda Akarachantachote, Dean of the Faculty of Communication Arts, and Professor Dr. Prapassorn Chansathitporn, Head of the Department, participated in exchange activities and performance training with students from National Sun Yat-sen University.

Together, they co-created a traditional Thai Likay performance titled “Thai-Tai Isan Muan Jai Show.” The production formed part of Chulalongkorn students’ efforts to promote Thai arts and culture internationally and received an enthusiastic response from audiences.

The project represents another milestone in advancing Thai arts and culture through innovative international collaboration. Supported by a matching-fund partnership between Chulalongkorn’s Office of Art and Culture Management and various university faculties, it also marks an important step in bringing Thai performing arts to the global higher-education community.

Read more: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/415022/

Chulalongkorn University and Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (Tsinghua SIGS) have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding academic and research collaboration, following a high-level meeting between leaders of the two institutions in Shenzhen, China, on June 9, 2026.

A delegation from Chulalongkorn University, led by Vice President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Manoj Lohatepanont, visited Tsinghua SIGS to discuss strengthening existing partnerships, promoting student and faculty exchanges, and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in research and innovation. Associate Dean Fu Haohuan welcomed the delegation and underscored the value of the long-standing relationship between the two universities.

Both institutions share a commitment to developing global talent, advancing interdisciplinary research, and contributing to regional development. Building on these shared priorities, Chulalongkorn University and Tsinghua SIGS plan to deepen collaboration through joint research initiatives, academic exchanges, and other strategic programs designed to enhance international engagement and generate regional impact.

The visit marks another step forward in strengthening educational ties between Thailand and China while creating new opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members from both institutions.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/413623/

Today, more than 15,000 dairy farming households in Thailand are facing mounting challenges on multiple fronts. Rising production costs, climate change, and heat stress are directly affecting both the quantity and quality of milk production. At the same time, environmental pressures related to greenhouse gas emissions are increasing. Trade liberalization, which allows duty-free imports of milk powder, has further reduced the competitiveness of domestically produced raw milk, contributing to oversupply in the local market and placing many dairy farmers at a critical crossroads for survival.

To address these challenges, the Agricultural Technology and Innovation Center of Chulalongkorn University (AIC Chula Saraburi), in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, organized the Chula Dairy Conference & Expo 2026 on June 11–12, 2026, at Saraburi Building 4, the Center for Social Engagement, Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province. Held under the theme “Transforming the Thai Dairy Industry Toward Sustainability,” the event served as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, develop solutions to support dairy farmers, and elevate farm standards to meet international environmental benchmarks. The conference brought together participants across the dairy value chain, from farmers and cooperatives to private sector partners. The opening ceremony was presided over by Associate Professor Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University.

The conference featured a wide range of activities, including the “Dairy Crisis Solutions forum,” which explored data-driven approaches to overcoming industry challenges. Participants also examined success stories from model farms and cooperatives, strategies for managing climate change and heat stress in dairy cattle, and solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A brainstorming session titled “Chula Dairy Transformation Platform” focused on shaping the future direction of Thailand’s dairy sector. Additional highlights included the Main Conference & Expo showcasing innovations for dairy farming in tropical climates, the AIC Saraburi Marketplace for business networking and agricultural innovation exhibits, and the Youth & TikTok Zone, featuring a short-video competition promoting milk consumption under the campaign theme “Real Cow’s Milk: Good for Every Age.”

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak Ajariyakhajorn, Director of the Agricultural Technology and Innovation Center and Chairman of the conference, Thailand currently produces only about 50% of its domestic milk demand. However, the industry continues to face milk oversupply due to the influx of lower-cost imported milk powder. As a result, Thai dairy farmers are disadvantaged in both production costs and product quality. He emphasized that the key to survival lies in shifting from volume-based production to quality-focused dairy farming while creating value-added products such as cheese, butter, and soft-serve ice cream to generate stable and sustainable income streams.

He further noted that Chulalongkorn University has established a technology transfer and research center in Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province, covering more than 4,000 rai. The center operates a demonstration dairy farm that showcases how farmers can achieve milk yields of 20 liters per cow per day while maintaining competitive production costs. The university has also expanded its outreach through the Chula Dairy School, a network involving 30–50 dairy farms, and the Chula Freshmilk platform, which integrates dairy farms with processing facilities. These initiatives aim to help Thai dairy farmers successfully enter and compete in premium dairy markets. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/413633/

The Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Harvard Club of Thailand, organized a special forum titled “TRUMPENOMICS: Navigating Global Economic Uncertainty in a Changing World.” The event was presided over by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Associate Professor Dr. Prakorn Siriprakob, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, delivered the welcome remarks. The event took place on May 27, 2026, at the Smart Classroom, 7th Floor, Kasem Uthayanin Building, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University.

The forum was honored to host Prof. Jay Rosengard, Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy and Director of the Harvard University Thai Studies Program at Harvard Kennedy School, who delivered a special lecture and shared perspectives on U.S. economic policy under the concept of “Trumpenomics,” referring to the economic approaches and policies of Donald Trump, President of the United States, amid current global economic challenges and uncertainties.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411987/

The Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, extends its congratulations to Ms. Donjai Watcharapolmek, Ms. Lillarawat Kitjavas, Mr. Jin Kulsathitporn, and Mr. Wintakorn Kampira, veterinary students of Chulalongkorn University, for winning first prize in the 4th Young Ocean for Life Innovation Challenge under the 10th year of the PTTEP Teenergy project.

The team received the award for their project, “Turtle Wave Energy Generator,” under the theme “Preserve,” which had been selected from applicants nationwide to advance to the final round of 15 teams before ultimately winning first place. The award was granted in recognition of their presentation of ideas and innovations aimed at promoting sustainable marine resource conservation. The competition and award ceremony were held at Suralai Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAM.

The “Turtle Wave Generator” was developed in response to a key challenge in sea turtle hatchery and nursery ponds, which are typically characterized by still water or limited water circulation. This contrasts sharply with the natural marine environment, where waves and currents are constantly in motion. As a result, hatchling and juvenile turtles raised in artificial ponds may lack natural environmental stimuli, become less active, experience stress, or exhibit undesirable behaviors such as aggressive biting among individuals. Such behaviors can lead to injuries and increase the risk of infection.

To address this issue, the development team began by consulting with veterinarians and sea turtle caretakers to better understand the underlying causes and potential solutions. Experimental trials were then conducted with juvenile green turtles aged approximately six to seven months by introducing controlled water currents into nursery ponds. Preliminary findings revealed that ponds equipped with water-current systems experienced a reduction in biting behavior of more than 72 percent compared with ponds without water circulation. These results highlighted the potential of creating a more naturalistic environment to enhance animal welfare.

Building on these findings, the team developed the “Turtle Wave Generator,” an innovative water-current generation device that can be retrofitted into existing nursery ponds without the need for major reconstruction. The system features a Flow Bar current-generation mechanism, animal safety protection components, an adjustable mounting system compatible with various pond designs, and an application-based control platform that enables caretakers to monitor and manage multiple ponds simultaneously in real time.

A key strength of the innovation lies in its application of Environmental Enrichment principles to sea turtle husbandry. The device allows users to adjust both the intensity and pattern of water currents according to the turtles’ developmental stages. By simulating natural aquatic conditions, it encourages normal swimming behavior, reduces stress, and helps prepare juvenile turtles for successful release back into the wild.

Looking ahead, the development team plans to expand the application of this technology to the care and rehabilitation of other rare and vulnerable marine animals, including dugongs, dolphins, and various marine species undergoing recovery in conservation centers and aquariums. The team envisions the technology as a valuable tool for improving the welfare of marine animals in managed environments, enhancing rehabilitation outcomes, and supporting their sustainable return to natural habitats.

This achievement reflects the potential of Chulalongkorn University students to apply academic knowledge alongside creativity and teamwork to develop innovations that benefit society and the environment while making tangible contributions to the sustainable conservation of Thailand’s marine resources.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411923/

Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, delivered a special keynote titled “Five Decades of the Thai Economy: Thailand Next,” reflecting on Thailand’s economic journey and projecting its future. The speech was given at the “Dinner Talk” and “PRACHACHAT BUSINESS AWARDS 2026,” organized by Prachachat Business on its 50th anniversary, on May 28, 2026, at Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon.

He emphasized that Thailand is simultaneously confronting eight major challenges, with crises becoming the “new normal” that no sector can deny. These eight disruptions are already unfolding and generating unavoidable ripple effects:

1. Technology Disruption

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly the transition into the Next Generation of AI, is reshaping work structures, human resource development, and organizational management.

A key global question today is identifying capabilities that humans still perform better than AI—especially wisdom, experience, and critical thinking. These remain advanced capacities that AI cannot yet replicate.

Thailand’s major challenge is crafting strategies to manage technological disruption affecting business, education, and work models. Without effective measures, Thailand risks losing competitiveness. The crucial task is upgrading the population’s capabilities from the pre-4.0 era to becoming highly effective AI users.

2. Demographic Disruption

Thailand has become a fully aged society. Although life expectancy may rise to 90–100 years, the period of healthy, self-sufficient living has not increased proportionally.

This creates a wide gap—approximately 30 years—between healthy elderly individuals and those requiring dependency support. This demographic crisis poses serious implications for business operations, welfare systems, and national human resource policies.

3. Pandemic Disruption

Although the world has passed the COVID-19 crisis, the risk of new outbreaks remains. Reports of emerging virus strains worldwide highlight renewed vulnerabilities in healthcare access.

Government policy must shift focus from mere “health equality” to “health equity.” Vulnerable groups—low-income populations and remote communities—face greater barriers to healthcare access. Equal allocation of resources is insufficient; targeted support is required to ensure genuine equity.

4. Environmental Disruption

Environmental crises are deeply affecting the government and private sectors, agriculture, and our daily lives. The PM2.5 air pollution crisis in northern provinces such as Chiang Mai has severely impacted tourism and hospitality businesses.

Western tourists are increasingly shifting travel from winter/dry seasons to the rainy season due to dangerously high pollution levels during dry months.

Current environmental risk management policy revolves around three pillars:

1.       Mitigation: Using advanced technology to reduce pollution (already feasible).

2.       Offset: Promoting carbon credit trading systems (where Thailand has made tangible progress).

3.       Adaptation: Structural adjustments to cope with climate change (the most challenging dimension).

5. Education Disruption

Thailand’s education system faces misalignment between human capital investment and real-world needs. Graduates often face unemployment or skill mismatches.

Higher education institutions must pivot toward lifelong learning, upskilling, and reskilling despite budget constraints. Universities also operate in disciplinary silos, whereas modern global problems are interdisciplinary. Educational institutions must break structural barriers and emphasize experiential learning in partnership with the private sector.

Developing a “new breed of professors” who better understand real business mechanisms, sustainability, climate change, and local governance structures will be key to designing relevant curricula.

6. Energy Disruption

Energy policy is highly volatile. While global trends promote transition from fossil fuels to renewables, major powers frequently reverse policies based on short-term political or economic interests. Examples include renewed support for oil and gas drilling in the U.S. and European countries temporarily returning to coal amid energy shortages. Such global policy fluctuations create cost pressures and demand flexibility in Thailand’s energy planning and cost structures.

7. Geo-economic Disruption

Global economic geopolitics has shifted dramatically due to unilateral tariff measures, weakening the multilateral free trade system of over 190 nations. Trade has increasingly moved toward bilateral agreements and unilateral protectionism. In global finance, some countries are reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, seeking alternative currencies and shifting reserves toward gold, silver, and platinum—causing commodity price volatility.

At forums like the World Economic Forum (Davos), discussions have emerged around using digital assets such as stablecoins as alternative financial systems. The global financial system is in transition, compounded by supply chain decoupling between the U.S. and China and intensifying technology wars.

8. Geopolitical Disruption

Intensifying rivalry among major powers is pressuring medium and small countries to choose sides. Economic measures are increasingly tied to security and military concerns.

Many conflicts are temporarily suppressed through tariff and trade measures rather than resolved at their roots. Policy divergence between the U.S. and European allies has become more visible. Meanwhile, sanctioned nations such as Venezuela have shifted to using China’s yuan for major transactions.

In Southeast Asia, instability in Myanmar and regional tensions may become future focal points of major power competition. Thailand must assess scenarios where influence zones may be divided, potentially placing Asia under China’s strategic framework.

Warning: Middle East Conflict Directly Hits Thailand

Dr. Surakiart analyzed why Middle Eastern (West Asian) conflicts directly impact Thailand. Geographically, the Middle East is part of Asia. Conflict involving the U.S., Israel, Iran, the Houthis in Yemen, and Hezbollah in Lebanon directly affects Thailand due to its heavy oil import dependency.

Ripple effects include higher logistics costs, rising consumer goods prices, increased fertilizer and agricultural input costs, and weakened foreign purchasing power. There are also risks to undersea internet cables in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz, which carry 30–40% of Asia’s internet connectivity.

Two Critical Months: SMEs at Risk

Rising living costs and input prices are severely affecting SMEs. Dr. Surakiart urged fiscal and monetary authorities to act swiftly. Without intervention within two months, many small businesses risk collapse despite fiscal and monetary constraints.

Thailand’s Way Forward: Move Beyond “Neutrality”

Dr. Surakiart advised Thailand to avoid framing foreign policy as “neutrality,” which may be misinterpreted internationally. Instead, Thailand should emphasize being “not a party to the conflict.”

Thailand should leverage multilateral platforms such as ASEAN, ASEAN+3, the IMF, and the World Bank and use its “convening power” as a mid-sized nation to help shape new energy architecture and a new global order. He concluded with two major questions for Thailand:

Can Thailand accept that the new global order will involve prolonged crises? Assuming everything will return to normal after the war’s end is dangerous thinking.

If we accept this reality, do we already have a strategy to handle the new world order—across ministries, the private sector, media, and human resource development?

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411905/

Bangkok, Thailand — Chulalongkorn University has strengthened its internationalization agenda by hosting ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026, the first official Regional Hub of the International Communication Association (ICA) ever held in Thailand.

Founded in 1950, the International Communication Association (ICA) is one of the world’s leading academic organizations in communication and media studies, bringing together thousands of scholars, researchers, and professionals from more than 80 countries. Held concurrently with the 76th ICA Annual Conference, which this year took place in Cape Town, South Africa, the Thailand Hub positions Bangkok as a key site for global scholarly exchange.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, described the event as a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to expand its global engagement.

“This event symbolically connects Cape Town and Bangkok—linking global conversations with regional realities and bringing Asian perspectives directly into the center of international communication scholarship.”

He emphasized that the conference reflects Chulalongkorn University’s vision of becoming a globally connected institution that not only participates in international conversations but also helps shape them.

“Universities are increasingly judged not only by rankings but also by their ability to create meaningful networks, advance impactful research, and build global partnerships that contribute to society.”

The event aligns closely with the university’s commitment to research excellence, international collaboration, and knowledge creation with global impact. This vision is further reflected in Professor Dr. Wilert’s recent appointment as President of the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), a network of leading universities dedicated to advancing higher education cooperation across Asia.

Hosted by the Faculty of Communication Arts during its 61st anniversary year, ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026 brings together scholars, researchers, media professionals, policymakers, and students from Thailand, the Mekong region, Asia, and beyond under the theme “Where Thailand, the Mekong Region, and Asia Bridge Divides and Amplify Voices.”

The conference addresses pressing contemporary issues, including artificial intelligence, journalism, platform governance, misinformation, communication inequalities, sustainability, public health communication, and democratic participation.

The President noted that the event serves not only as a venue for scholarly exchange but also as a catalyst for future collaboration. “The conversations that begin here may lead to future joint research projects, policy initiatives, international publications, and long-term scholarly networks.”

“This conference is more than an academic gathering. It is a platform that brings together scholars, media professionals, students, and policymakers from different countries to foster dialogue, mutual understanding, and new collaborations for the future of communication.”

The Dean added that hosting Thailand’s first ICA Regional Hub provides an important opportunity to enhance the visibility of Thai scholarship, strengthen international research networks, and connect scholars from Thailand, the Mekong region, and Asia more closely with the global communication community.

The conference reinforces Thailand’s growing role as a regional hub for communication and media studies while amplifying perspectives from Asia and the Global South within international academic discourse.

Professor Wilert expressed his hope for Bangkok’s future role in global scholarship, concluding that “May Bangkok become not just a host city for global conversations, but a permanent gateway connecting Asia to the world of communication scholarship.”

Chulalongkorn University Advances Global Engagement Through Thailand’s First ICA Regional Hub ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026 was held from 5–7 June 2026 in Bangkok and organized by the Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the International Communication Association (ICA), the Asian Network for Public Opinion Research (ANPOR), the Thai Media Fund, and partner organizations.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/412152/