Chula & the Military Energy Department Collab

Chulalongkorn University, through the Center of Learning Network for the Region, or CLNR, and the Office of Academic Resources, in collaboration with the Military Energy Department, Defense Industry, and Military Energy Center, held a signing ceremony for an agreement for the co-production of Thai-language radio programs and social engagement initiatives on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the 7th-floor conference room of the Maha Thirathirat Memorial Building, Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University. 

The agreement was signed by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and Vice Admiral Pinan Dawkrajai, Director-General of the Military Energy Department, Defense Industry and Military Energy Center, and Director of the Military Energy Department Radio Station. Witnesses to the signing included Associate Professor Dr. Yuttana Chappannarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University; Associate Professor Dr. Amorn Petsom, Director of the Office of Academic Resources; Major General Khemchat Boonyachan, Head of the Military Energy Department Radio Station; and Colonel Chairung Boonyarat, Head of Program Production, Military Energy Department Radio Station.  

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat stated that this collaboration reflects the shared commitment and unity between the higher education sector and the defense sector in jointly creating “audio media that cultivates wisdom.” By utilizing radio broadcasting—through Chulalongkorn University’s radio station—as a powerful channel, the partnership aims to disseminate knowledge derived from research and the university’s social engagement missions via the Military Energy Department’s radio station. The initiative seeks to expand educational opportunities for children and youth, as well as career opportunities for the Thai public, in line with the Impactful Growth strategy, which emphasizes sustainable development across all levels of Thai society. 

This collaboration also marks the first time Chulalongkorn University has expanded its knowledge outreach to listeners in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, a strategic area under Chula’s Social Engagement framework. The two organizations have jointly produced and broadcast a variety of radio programs since October 1, 2025, representing an important milestone that underscores their shared commitment to creating intellectual value through radio broadcasting—a mass communication medium that continues to hold significant influence today. 

Vice Admiral Pinan Dawkrajai noted that the signing of this agreement represents a promising step in which an agency responsible for military energy security joins forces with Chulalongkorn University, a pillar of national intellectual leadership. The shared objective is to use radio as a tool for contributing positively to society. Beyond merely exchanging communication resources, the core focus is on jointly producing programs for social benefit by integrating the strengths of both organizations. The goal is to create content that not only provides knowledge or entertainment but also enhances quality of life, fosters accurate public understanding across various fields, supports social development, and serves as a credible voice for the public. 

This agreement aims to drive forward the Impactful Growth strategy of the President (Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat) and the CHULA Social Engagement strategy of the Vice President (Associate Professor Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat). The collaboration was initiated by the Assistant President for Social Engagement (Assistant Professor Dr. Thanasin Chutintaranond) and the Director of the Office of Academic Resources (Associate Professor Dr. Amorn Petsom). 

Under this collaboration, various programs produced by Chulalongkorn University Radio in partnership with the university’s faculties and units are broadcast via the Military Energy Department Radio Station, in addition to their regular broadcast on FM 101.5 MHz (Chula Radio). These programs include content for children and youth, news analysis, opinion exchanges on general news related to politics, economics, and technology, as well as knowledge dissemination and public relations for Chulalongkorn University’s social missions. 

Listeners can follow Chula Radio programs via the Military Energy Department Radio Station on: 

  • FM Bangkok, 90.5 MHz: Saturdays and Sundays, 07:00–08:00 and 19:00–19:55 
  • AM 711 kHz, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province: Sundays, 17:00–17:55 

Programs are also available online at curadio.chula.ac.th and through the Chula Radio+ mobile application. 

Chula Radio Programs Broadcast on the Military Energy Department Radio Station 

  • ChulaKa-se 
  • Yim Yaem Kaem Sai 
  • Political Science to Society 
  • Science Around the World 
  • Exclusive TCAS 
  • Heal Your Heart with Dr. Joy 
  • Law in Perspective 
  • Turning with the World 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/283534/

Kritin Kamonsin Receives Youth Awards

Chulalongkorn University is delighted to congratulate Mr. Kritin Kamonsin, a second-year student in the Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Political Science, who has been selected to receive the Outstanding Youth Award for Bringing Honor to the Nation for 2026. He received a certificate from Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Kuru Sapha Auditorium, Ministry of Education

Kritin said he felt extremely honored and proud to receive this award. It serves as an important encouragement, affirming that his dedication to social and community work has value and is recognized. It also motivates him to further develop himself to contribute even more to the country. 

Kritin is a responsible and active student with strong leadership qualities. He believes that being a good leader requires listening, learning, and continuously improving oneself in terms of thinking, discipline, and ethics in order to prepare for work that benefits the public and for personal development. 

In the past, Kritin has participated in numerous activities both within his faculty and across the university. These include serving on the team welcoming Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on National Mother’s Day 2025, working as treasurer in the Environmental and Sustainability Division of the Provincial Administrative Organization, and serving on committees of the Social Welfare Council of Thailand, among others. 

Moreover, Kritin has received many previous awards recognizing his abilities, such as the Outstanding Military Leadership Youth Award, being named an Honorary Air Cadet by the Air Force, and contributing significantly to the 2nd Army Ranger Unit, for which he received honorary unit insignia and an honorary commando proficiency badge from the 2nd Army Region. 

In addition to his exceptional extracurricular achievements, Kritin has also excelled academically, achieving the highest scores in general aptitude and specialized subjects among students in the 77th cohort of the Public Administration program. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/282676/

Chula Welcomes Bhutanese King and Queen

On the occasion of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck of the Kingdom of Bhutan’s visit to Chulalongkorn University to receive honorary doctoral degrees on December 22, 2025, at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium, the event marked an important chapter in the university’s history. Chulalongkorn University had the honor of welcoming the King and Queen of Bhutan, and the ceremony was conducted with grandeur and elegance befitting their royal status, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended from that day until now. 

One of the most significant ceremonial highlights organized by Chulalongkorn University to welcome the King and Queen of Bhutan—captivating everyone in the auditorium—was the student flag procession paying the highest respect to the monarch and queen of Bhutan. The procession comprised 24 Chulalongkorn University students: 22 faculty flag bearers, 1 Chulalongkorn University flag bearer, and 1 bearer of the Phra Kiao (the university emblem). They entered the auditorium with grace and perfect coordination to the accompaniment of the Maha Chulalongkorn anthem before proceeding to the ceremony whereby Their Majesties were presented with honorary doctoral degrees. 

Although preparation time was limited, the student’s flag procession that appeared before the audience was majestic, beautiful, and worthy of the occasion. This was made possible through the unity and dedication of the students, trainers, and faculty members working behind the scenes with full commitment and determination. 

Assistant Professor Dr. Chanakida Thummanond, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, stated, “The students had just completed a four-day camp, but the lecturers saw their energy and willingness when they immediately volunteered. The selection of students for the flag procession used ‘heart’ as the main criterion. Even if some students had overlapping commitments, as long as their hearts were in it, we were willing to wait until the required number was complete.” 

“I feel proud and deeply fulfilled to have had the honor of serving. This feeling is no different from when I took part in organizing the Chulalongkorn student flag procession for the ceremony of presenting royal patronage academic gowns to His Majesty the King on December 22, 2024. This time, it was a special occasion organized by Chulalongkorn University to welcome the King and Queen of Bhutan, reflecting the long-standing close relationship between the monarchies of the two countries.” 

The trainer responsible for preparing the Chulalongkorn University student flag procession was Mr. Chalerm Suwannaprapha, a trainer and former member of the Royal Thai Navy SEALs. He adapted military-style training to ensure that students would not feel stressed, emphasizing enjoyment during rehearsals and readiness for the actual performance. He also focused on fostering unity, enabling more than 20 students to move as one under the Chulalongkorn University flag. 

“We had only 2–3 days of actual practice, rehearsing the march about 17–18 times. The main challenge was scheduling, as students had other commitments, so we could truly practice together only on Saturday and Sunday evenings. The most important element of the flag procession is the Phra Kiao. Students must hold it high because there is no stand, and it cannot be held below foot level, as it is the royal headdress of the King. The student entrusted with carrying the Phra Kiao high, though tired, felt happy to have the opportunity to do so.” 

Ms. Nattanan Chaiyaphate, a third-year student and student leader from the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, one of the participants in the procession, said: “I feel extremely happy and proud to represent Chulalongkorn University students and the Faculty of Education by carrying the flag before Their Majesties. It is a valuable opportunity given by the university and our lecturers. Even though it was during the semester break and rehearsal time was limited, everyone dedicated their time to practice with full commitment. Despite some difficulties, such as uncomfortable shoes or outfits that were hard to walk in, everyone did their best. This rehearsal brought about friendship and warmth, like being part of a family.” 

“While performing before Their Majesties, I felt very nervous, but I had to stay focused and perform as best as possible to represent my fellow students. After the performance, we stood in line to receive Their Majesties. Along the way, Their Majesties had kind words which they directed towards the students like ‘Thank you, which faculty are you from?’ This showed how much they appreciated the efforts shown by the students, and it made all the exhaustion from waking up at 5 a.m. completely disappear.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Phatpasit Promsri, a first-year student from the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, who participated in the flag procession for the first time, said: “I had no prior experience in marching. During practice, I sometimes stepped out of rhythm or bumped into the person in front of me, but I gradually improved. On the actual day, I was able to march in time without mistakes. Being given the opportunity to perform before Their Majesties was an invaluable and honorable experience I will always relish.” 

Training students for the flag procession required not only coordination but also knowledge of international etiquette and diplomatic protocol. To address this, Mr. Phanthachak Wongprecha, a former diplomat from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a graduate of the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, was invited to train the students in international manners. 

Mr. Phanthachak explained: “The training lasted a total of five hours—three hours of lectures and two hours of workshops. The content covered language usage, such as English royal vocabulary, understanding royal titles, duties in welcoming diplomats, the media, and faculty members, etiquette training, and creating a positive first impression through attire, smiles, composure, and nonverbal communication.” 

This training emphasized Royal Protocol, the highest level of protocol (out of three levels: Royal Protocol, State Protocol, and Business Protocol), as the event was highly sensitive and of great importance. During the workshop sessions, detailed practice included kneeling, knee-walking, and carrying ceremonial trays, preparing students for all possible situations. This training enabled students to learn how to be global citizens with proper manners and an understanding of international protocol—an embodiment of Chulalongkorn University’s distinguished grace, learned not only in the classroom but through hands-on experience and collaboration with others. 

“Preparation is like polishing a gemstone. Even though the students already possess quality, training in refined protocol and etiquette enhances their ability to serve as graceful ‘hosts’ on an international level to perfection,” Mr. Phanthachak concluded. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281194/

Chula Made Asia Certified to ISO 56001:2024

The Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation (CSII) has been awarded ISO 56001:2024 certification for its Innovation Management System by the Management System Certification Institute (MASCI).  This makes CSII the first educational institution in Thailand and Asia to receive this certification. 

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The ISO 56001:2024 certificate presentation ceremony was held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation, 1st Floor, Chalerm Rajakumari 60th Anniversary Building (Chamchuri 10). The certificate was received by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, from Mr. Jongrak Rojpalasatean, Director of MASCI, with Professor Dr. Suchada Sukrong, Director of the School of Integrated Innovation, co-receiving the certificate. 

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Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stated: 

“Receiving ISO certification on this occasion is a meaningful New Year’s gift for the Chula community. It demonstrates that this program not only meets international standards but is also truly capable of shaping the future of young people. The university focuses on creating innovators, because innovators come before innovations—the innovator is more important than what is created. Students are nurtured within an ecosystem rich in innovation. This program emphasizes integration between academic knowledge and hands-on practice, both domestically and internationally, to instill a start-up spirit and the wisdom to create new solutions for the future world.” 

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Professor Dr. Suchada Sukrong, Director of the Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation, said, “The ISO standard we received is for an innovation management system, which supports the systematic nurturing of students—from ideation, prototype development, and go-to-market processes to fundraising. Integrated innovation is not pursued merely for advancement or novelty; it must create a strong impact that benefits Thai society and humanity worldwide. The program emphasizes the commercialization of innovation to generate circulating capital and help Thailand escape poverty, with the goal of developing students into global citizens and future leaders.” 

This achievement at the global standard level is the result of policies and management under the vision of Professor Dr. Suchada Sukrong, Director of the School of Integrated Innovation, together with Assistant Professor Dr. Ronnakorn Vaiyavuth, Deputy Director for Innovation and Commercialization, who served as head of the working team. Along with faculty members, staff, and students, they have driven the innovation management system seriously, continuously, and systematically until certification was successfully achieved. 

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This success represents a significant leap forward following the school’s previous ISO 56002:2019 certification in 2564 B.E. (2021). The upgrade to ISO 56001:2024, the latest innovation management system standard, reaffirms the school’s commitment to becoming an international leader in innovation. It also provides a vital foundation for empowering students and new entrepreneurs to create integrated innovations that sustainably drive global society and the world economy. 

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Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281932/

Chula Garners 68 National Research Awards

Chulalongkorn University extends its congratulations on the achievements of its faculty members and researchers who received the prestigious National Research Awards at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2026, held on January 8, 2026, at Event Hall 102, BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center, Bangna. This year, Chulalongkorn University faculty and researchers received as many as 68 awards across various categories, bringing about immense honor and pride to the university. 

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Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya graciously appointed her representative to preside over the opening ceremony of Thailand Inventors’ Day 2026 and to present certificates to the recipients of the National Research Awards. On this occasion, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, together with Professor Dr. Pornanong Aramwit, Vice President, presented congratulatory flower bouquets to all award recipients. The 68 awards comprised: 

  • 3 National Outstanding Researcher Awards 
  • 12 Research Work Awards 
  • 12 Thesis Awards 
  • 10 Invention Awards 
  • 31 NRCT Quality Achievement Awards 

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Thailand Inventors’ Day 2026 was held for the 27th occasion, from January 5 to 9, 2026, at the BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center, Bangna, under the theme “Unlocking Thailand with the Power of Inventions and Innovation.” The event was organized to honor and commemorate the inventive achievements of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, revered as “The Father of Thai Invention.” The event featured exhibitions of ready-to-use inventions and innovations, presentations on national advancements in invention and innovation, and a Highlight Zone with special activities for visitors to enjoy. 

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(Information provided by the Research Management Office, Chulalongkorn University) 

Read more about the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) Award recipients for 2026 at: 

https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/276007/

https://www.research.chula.ac.th/nrct-award-fiscal-year-2026/

Download photos from the event at: https://bit.ly/3L5cfvX 

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Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281920/

Sasin, Chula to Host Open House 2026

The Sasin School of Management of Chulalongkorn University invites those interested in applying for enrollment in the 2026 academic year to attend the Sasin Open House on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Sasin, Chulalongkorn University. 

Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about Sasin’s programs, including the MBA, Executive MBA, and DBA. The event will also feature current students, alumni, and Sasin faculty members who will share their experiences and provide information about teaching and learning in each program of interest. 

In addition, prospective Sasin MBA applicants who are preparing for the GMAT should not miss the special GMAT Insights Session, jointly organized by Sasin and GMAC, from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. (after the Sasin Open House). 

Register for the Open House at: https://tinyurl.com/6swn8fw4 

Register for the GMAT Insights Session at: https://tinyurl.com/mvfkkbv4 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281914/

Chula Partners with Nanchang University

Chulalongkorn University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nanchang University, a world-class university renowned for its excellence in food science and technology and ranked 8th in the US News: Best Global Universities Rankings 2026. This collaboration will serve as a key mechanism for jointly advancing Thai society and the global community toward sustainable development. 

The MOU signing ceremony was held on December 29, 2025, at Nanchang University, Jiangxi Province, People’s Republic of China. The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and Professor Chen Yeguang, President of Nanchang University, with the aim of promoting international academic cooperation between the two institutions. 

The core of this collaboration focuses on integrating expertise in knowledge creation, research, training, and the development of academic networks. It also emphasizes the expansion of interdisciplinary research, strengthening the capacity of Thai scientists, researcher exchanges, and linking research outcomes to national-level and policy applications between the two countries to drive concrete joint projects and activities. 

Attendees at the signing ceremony included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Palanee Ammaranond, Vice President; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thiti Bovornratanaraks, Dean of the Graduate School; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Inthawoot Suppavorasatit, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Science; Prof. Dr. Supachitra Chadchawan, Deputy Dean of the Graduate School; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kitipong Assatarakul, Head of the Department of Food Technology; and Assoc. Prof. Chaleeda Borompichaichartkul, Lecturer in the Department of Food Technology. 

On this occasion, Prof. Luo Sihai, Secretary of the Party Committee, hosted a reception to celebrate the occasion and officially welcome the collaboration between the two institutions. 

This MOU signing marks another important milestone for Chulalongkorn University in expanding its network of international partnerships and reflects its role as an academic hub committed to contributing to sustainable transformation at both regional and global levels. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281020/

Chula Hosts International Seminar

Chulalongkorn University, through the Faculty of Engineering, will host a high-level Special Seminar on “Microplastic Issues and Health” on December 12, 2025, at Room 201A, Centennial Building, bringing together leading global experts to discuss the latest scientific evidence, policy implications, and solutions to one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. 

The full-day seminar, running from 9:00AM to 4:30PM, with registration at 8:30AM–9:00AM, features renowned researchers and practitioners from the University of Tokyo, the University of Miami, Chulalongkorn University, and international organizations.  

Participants will gain insights into emerging findings on microplastics in the environment and their impacts on human health, as well as perspectives on policy development, circular economy approaches, private-sector innovation, and future directions for collaborative research. 

The event will open with remarks by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Witaya Wannasuphoprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, underscoring the university’s commitment to advancing scientific understanding and multisectoral action on environmental health. 

Distinguished Speakers Include: 

The seminar also offers valuable networking opportunities for researchers, policymakers, industry partners, and stakeholders committed to addressing microplastic pollution through science-based and collaborative solutions. 

This event reflects Chulalongkorn University’s leadership in driving interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation for a healthier, more sustainable future. 

Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms 

For more information, please contact Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nutta Taneepanichskul at [email protected] or scan the QR code provided. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/274627/

HRH Princess Sirindhorn Opens Int’l Congress

On Tuesday, 11 November 2025, at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously presided over the opening ceremony of the 51st International Congress on Science, Technology and Technology-based Innovation (STT51). The event was organized by the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Science Society of Thailand Under the Patronage of His Majesty the King and the Information Technology Foundation under the Initiatives of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, to honor the auspicious occasion of Her Royal Highness’s 70th birthday. 

Upon Her Royal Highness’s arrival at the auditorium, Prof. Dr. Suttichai Assabumrungrat, Chair of the STT51 Organizing Committee, presented the conference documents, Prof. Dr. Pairash Thajchayapong, Committee Member and Secretary-General of the Information Technology Foundation, presented a special issue of the Science Journal; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanuttkhul Mongkolaussavarat, President of the Science Society of Thailand Under the Patronage of His Majesty the King, and Prof. Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, presented commemorative gifts. Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, expressed gratitude for Her Royal Highness’s kind participation. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanuttkhul Mongkolaussavarat then reported the objectives of the event and announced the names of 30 award recipients to receive certificates from the Princess. 

Her Royal Highness then delivered the opening remarks for STT51 and gave the Honorary Keynote Address, reflecting her profound vision and significant role in advancing education, science, and technology in Thailand. 

Her Royal Highness listened to a lecture by Prof. Jun Cao, Director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (iHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), titled “SINO-THAI Collaboration on JUNO”. This was followed by a lecture by Prof. Dr. Siriporn Chattipakorn, Thailand’s Outstanding Scientist of 2025, on “How Obesity Leads to Cognitive Impairment and Brain Aging: Approaches to Intervention.” Her Royal Highness then proceeded to the glass hall of the auditorium to view exhibitions honoring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, along with exhibitions on Thai Chinese scientific and technological cooperation, the Science Society of Thailand, research from the Faculty of Science, and secondary-school-level science projects. 

She then proceeded to the Maha Chulalongkorn Building to lay a floral garland in tribute before the royal portraits of King Chulalongkorn and King Vajiravudh. Before departing, Her Royal Highness took a commemorative photograph with the executive committees of the Science Society of Thailand and the Information Technology Foundation, leaders of related institutions, keynote speakers, members of the Council of Science Deans of Thailand, the international conference organizing committee, invited speakers, representatives of co-hosting organizations, and administrators of the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, at Room 105 of the Maha Chulalongkorn Building. 

The 51st International Congress on Science, Technology and Technology-Based Innovation (STT51) was held from 11–13 November 2025 at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, under the theme “Collaboration Across Frontiers: From Quantum and Cosmos to Global Biodiversity.” The conference aimed to create an integrated platform for scientific and technological knowledge across diverse fields—from quantum and cosmic sciences to global biodiversity and sustainability—promoting true cross-disciplinary, cross-institutional, and cross-border scientific collaboration. 

This year’s event also celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China and the 108th anniversary of the founding of the Faculty of Science at Chulalongkorn University. It also aligned with UNESCO’s designation of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. 

The congress featured academic sessions and research presentations across more than 20 fields, spanning physical sciences, biology, health sciences, artificial intelligence, materials science, energy, environment, food and agricultural technology, and sustainability. Specialized symposia and sessions included quantum science and technology, cosmology and astrophysics, biodiversity and climate change, color science and cultural heritage, and science communication in the data era. 

The conference placed strong emphasis on Thai Chinese cooperation in science and technology, particularly in space exploration, planetary missions, atmospheric systems, global climate, polar research, and environmental sustainability projects—leveraging advanced technology to address shared global challenges of the 21st century. 

STT51 also featured youth-focused activities, including the Junior Young Rising Stars of Science Award (JYRSS) for secondary school students and the Young Rising Stars of Science Award (YRSS) for university students, providing young researchers with opportunities to present their work, exchange ideas with international scientists, and build future research networks. 

In addition to keynote lectures by leading Thai and international scientists, the event included oral and poster presentations, exhibitions showcasing scientific and technological innovations from academia, research institutions, and industry, and networking activities among researchers, youth, and the private sector. 

STT51 serves as a global platform for collaboration, enabling scientists from different generations and regions to exchange knowledge, inspire new ideas, and jointly shape the future of science and technology for a sustainable world. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/272503/

Chula Leads in Preservation of Thai Music

Prof. Dr. Kumkom Pornprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, presided over the opening of the academic seminar on Thai music, “The Role of Phleng Rueang: Context, Development, and Practice.” The opening ceremony was attended by Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirichaichan Fachamroon, National Artist and University Artist, who conducted the traditional incense-lighting ritual in tribute to the masters. The seminar was jointly organized by the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, the Office of Art and Culture Management, and the Center of Excellence in Thai Music Culture, Chulalongkorn University, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Music Auditorium, Art and Culture Building, Chulalongkorn University. 

Understanding Phleng Rueang 

Phleng Rueang (“narrative pieces” or “extended compositions”) are considered a treasure trove for Thai music learners. Performing Phleng Rueang involves playing a sequence of connected pieces with specific performance methods designated for special occasions—for instance, the Royal Kathina Ceremony. Phleng Rueang differs in style, or “muue khong” (gong-hand techniques), from other forms such as tup, chut, kret, thao, theatrical music, and hom rong overtures. 

Phleng Rueang holds exceptional importance as a repertoire that every Thai musician must study. Each set contains foundational to advanced techniques, culminating in solo performances. It serves as an indicator of the competency of both teachers and learners, reflecting the culture, spirit, and wisdom of Thai musical artistry in systematically organizing and categorizing musical knowledge. Carefully structured classification systems lend Phleng Rueang its grace and sanctity, contributing to the completeness of ceremonial performances. The repertoire is invaluable for developing both practical skills and theoretical understanding—truly a wellspring of knowledge for Thai musicians. 

Chulalongkorn University’s Archival Project 

For over four decades, Chulalongkorn University, through the Office of Art and Culture Management, has carried out a project to document all forms of Thai music—particularly Phleng Rueang—to form a sound and visual archive stored and publicized at the Thai Music Library, Chulalongkorn University. The project has also responded to the royal initiatives of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who recognizes the cultural value of Phleng Rueang. This support has led to collaboration with numerous organizations and music institutions, resulting in one of the most culturally significant archives at Chulalongkorn University. 

In the early stages of the Thai music documentation project, the former Chulalongkorn University Cultural Promotion Center (now the Office of Art and Culture Management) invited renowned Thai musicians to record at the home of Master Prasit Thawon—National Artist and the university’s first Artist-in-Residence and creator of the Thai music curriculum for the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts. Today, Chulalongkorn’s archive of Phleng Rueang stands as an immensely valuable cultural resource for future researchers and enthusiasts. 

The Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts’ initiative to organize the seminar on Phleng Rueang continues Chulalongkorn University’s longstanding commitment to deepening understanding and raising awareness of the repertoire’s cultural value. It provides a platform for scholars, music teachers, and practitioners to exchange knowledge and perspectives, paving the way for preservation, transmission, and appropriate adaptation of Phleng Rueang in contemporary society. 

Opening Performance 

The seminar opened with a commemorative performance of Phleng Rueang Nang Hong by the Thai music ensemble of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, conducted and trained by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pattara Komkam, Head of the Department of Thai Music, in tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother. 

This seminar was enriched by knowledgeable lecturers who provided demonstrations and insights into Phleng Rueang, supporting its preservation and transmission. Participants gained clearer understanding and inspiration for further study. Honored speakers included Assoc. Prof. Phichit Chaiseri (Thai music expert), Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirichaichan Fachamroon (National Artist), Master Peep Konglaithong, and Master Chaiya Thangmeesri (National Artist), who served as project advisors. Speakers also joined from music departments of government agencies, academic institutions, and the military bands of the Royal Thai ArmyRoyal Thai Navy, and Royal Thai Air Force, as well as the Fine Arts Department’s Music Division, Burapha University, Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University, and Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University. 

The faculty also expresses gratitude to Master Sakchai Ladda-on (retired officer, Fine Arts Department Music Division), Master Chatri Obnual (senior teacher and special lecturer, Thai Music Department, Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University), Master Phithak Channayot (senior specialist, Department of Music, Faculty of Humanities, Kasetsart University), and Master Piya Sawangpanich (senior music artist, Fine Arts Department Music Division). 

Student Involvement and Academic Integration 

This seminar forms part of the course Seminar in Thai Music for 3rd-year students in Thai Music at the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts. Students conducted research, reviewed related literature, interviewed experts, and consulted lecturers to present differences between past and contemporary practices of Phleng Rueang, shaped by changing social contexts. The event was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pattara Komkam. Students, university participants, and school groups from Rayong, Chonburi, Uthai Thani, Bangkok, and surrounding provinces took part. Participants—from primary students to university level—engaged actively with experts through questions and discussions. This promising engagement signals a bright future for the continued transmission of Phleng Rueang to the next generations. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/272200/