Tag: Chulalongkorn University

The Institute of Asian Studies at Chulalongkorn University organized Siam Dialogue @ IAS CU – Emerging Conversations on Asia and the World, a policy dialogue forum, on March 31, 2026, at Ruean Chula Narumit. The event was opened by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika Sriratanaban, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies, delivering the report. This was followed by a keynote lecture titled “OECD and Benefits of Thailand’s Accession” by Ms. Gita Kothari, Director for Legal Affairs and OECD Accession Coordinator, moderated by Assoc. Prof. Surachart Horachaikul of the Institute of Asian Studies.

Siam Dialogue @ IAS CU – Emerging Conversations on Asia and the World is a new policy dialogue platform that connects academics, diplomats, policymakers, and emerging thinkers to exchange perspectives on Asia’s role and international cooperation. It aims to foster in-depth discussions on geopolitics, economics, technology, and sustainability from Asian perspectives while positioning Thailand as a hub for intellectual exchange and international policy dialogue.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika Sriratanaban stated that Thailand is in the process of applying for membership in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which currently has 38 member countries worldwide. These countries are recognized for promoting economic and social development and meeting standards in areas such as inequality and anti-corruption, reflecting a strong commitment to economic and social advancement and recovery.

This inaugural Siam Dialogue @ IAS CU is a collaboration between the Institute of Asian Studies and the Department of International Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event featured Ms. Gita Kothari as a keynote speaker and marked an important starting point for demonstrating the role of academia—led by Chulalongkorn University—in helping Thailand benefit from OECD membership. It represents a high-level social impact that complements the university’s recognition in global rankings (World University Rankings). This forum also highlights another dimension of Chulalongkorn University’s global academic reputation.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pavika added that many Chulalongkorn students were attending the event, reflecting the university’s readiness and the potential of its new generation to engage with future challenges. Participants also included stakeholders actively involved in Thailand’s OECD accession process, such as representatives from labor unions and the Department of International Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

She further explained that Siam Dialogue differs from the ongoing Asia Forward Series hosted by the Institute. While Asia Forward takes a broader view of global-Asia connections, Siam Dialogue focuses on specific, high-impact issues for in-depth discussion.

“In terms of strategy, the Institute of Asian Studies is increasingly operating in an international context, expanding the role of knowledge within its collaborative networks. Hosting policy dialogue forums under the name of Chulalongkorn University serves as a bridge—not simply a venue but a platform with strong potential and a highly challenging new mission for the institute,” the Director concluded.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/297109/

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, together with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Palanee Ammaranond, Vice President for International Affairs and Global Network, welcomed H.E. Mrs. Magdalini Nicolaou, Ambassador of Greece to Thailand, along with Ms. Saranya Jehnoh, Personal Assistant to the Ambassador. The visit took place at Chulalongkorn University on March 30, 2026, at the reception room on the 2nd floor of the Chamchuri 4 Building. 

The Ambassador of Greece to Thailand and her delegation paid a courtesy visit to strengthen relations and discuss potential academic cooperation between Chulalongkorn University and higher education institutions in Greece.

The Ambassador also expressed her intention to initiate in-depth discussions on the possibility of developing collaboration between Greek educational institutions and Chulalongkorn University. The meeting included exchanges of ideas on various dimensions of academic cooperation, such as educational development, student and staff exchange programs, and other collaborative activities that support the shared goals of both parties.

The discussion was conducted in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, marking an important step in strengthening the relationship between Chulalongkorn University and the Embassy of Greece. It also reflects a shared commitment to promoting international collaboration and expanding academic opportunities between Thailand and the Hellenic Republic (Greece) in the future.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/297103/

Two Chulalongkorn University students, in collaboration with students from the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music, won first prize at the PGVIM International Guitar Ensemble Competition 2026.

The winning team included Tonnam Kraisrisawad, a third-year student, and Pachara Seehanern, a fourth-year student in the Western Music program at the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, along with Natthawat Jitmuad and Porachate Phophuak from the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music. The competition was held on March 28, 2026, in the open-age international category, with the team receiving a cash prize of 30,000 baht.

The collaboration highlights growing academic and musical partnerships in Thailand’s classical music community. Organized by the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music, the competition has been held annually since 2021 and focuses on developing young classical guitarists for the international stage.

The International Classical Guitar Ensemble Competition aims to promote classical guitar performance and encourage ensemble collaboration, providing musicians with more opportunities to perform together. The ensemble format also promotes teamwork and helps participants develop both musical and collaborative skills. The competition is divided into two categories: classical guitar ensemble and classical guitar with other instruments.

This achievement highlights the students’ talent and dedication, as well as the strength of the Western Music program at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, which prepares students for performance and competition at the international level.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/297112/

King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, has announced a breakthrough in implementing Surface-Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) technology, which uses skin surface imaging to determine radiation positioning in breast cancer patients—without the need to draw ink marks on the skin. This marks the first use of such technology in Thailand. The system utilizes real-time 3D imaging for high precision, helping reduce patients’ concerns about appearance during treatment and allowing them to maintain a normal lifestyle throughout the therapy period.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jiruth Sriratanaban, Director of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, affirmed that: “The adoption of SGRT technology to guide radiation treatment without skin markings reflects the hospital’s mission to elevate treatment standards while also caring for patients’ quality of life in every dimension—both physically and mentally. This success is the result of collaboration among multidisciplinary teams at Chulalongkorn Hospital, who not only treat disease but truly understand patients’ lives.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chonlakiet Khorprasert, Head of the Department of Radiology at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, added, “Breast cancer is a major health issue for Thai women and worldwide. The number of patients continues to rise, making it essential for radiation therapy to advance in precision and reduce impacts on surrounding organs. The goal is not only to treat the disease but also to restore a good quality of life for patients.”

Ms. Pantiva Unhsiri, Senior Radiological Technologist specializing in medical physics, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kitwadee Saksornchai, a specialist in breast cancer radiotherapy at the Division of Radiation Oncology, explained that traditional radiation therapy requires permanent ink markings on the skin to identify treatment positions. This can affect both mental well-being and daily life, as many patients worry about their appearance, fear the marks fading, avoid normal bathing, or experience allergic reactions to the ink.

The medical team studied practices abroad and collaborated with medical physicists, radiological technologists, and nurses to develop the SGRT system using real-time 3D cameras instead of skin markings. This system can accurately identify and verify radiation positioning throughout the treatment. Patients can apply skincare products from the first day, significantly reducing skin irritation and burns.

A patient who underwent treatment with SGRT shared that initially they were concerned about radiation therapy, particularly pain and the skin markings they had heard about from others. However, with SGRT, they found they could shower, apply lotion, dress normally, and exercise throughout the full one-month treatment period without any limitations related to their appearance or daily life.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/297106/

Chulalongkorn University continues to strengthen its role in driving social engagement and development. The university has renamed the “Center of Learning Network for the Region” to the “Center for Social Engagement, Chulalongkorn University,” reflecting a more proactive approach that emphasizes collaboration and partnership with government agencies, private sector organizations, and communities. The goal is to co-create knowledge while generating measurable social impact in a concrete and meaningful way. 

This change is not merely a renaming of the unit but represents a shift in the working concept—from “learning together” to “driving society forward through university knowledge” systematically and sustainably. The infrastructure, personnel, and ongoing operations in Bangkok, Nan, and Saraburi remain unchanged. What has been added is a clearer goal: to create value and meaningful change for society. 

Follow updates from the Center for Social Engagement at: 

Website: https://clnr.chula.ac.th/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/csechula 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/296122/

The Center for Health and Well-Being Promotion for Older People (CHWPOP), Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, together with the Human Resources Management Office, held the opening ceremony of the “Chula Day Care: Caring for Seniors for a Happy Retirement” project for its second year under the Chula Preventive Health Care initiative. The event took place on March 11, 2026, at the Center for Health and Well-being Promotion for Older People, 10th Floor, Borommaratchachonnani Srisataphat Building, Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University. 

Prof. Dr. Kanaphon Chanhom, Vice President of the University, presided over the opening ceremony. Mr. Pokai Sriratanobhas, Assistant to the President, along with Chulalongkorn faculty members and staff, also attended. 

The event included a panel discussion titled “The Value of Day Care from the Perspective of Family Caregivers of the Elderly.” The discussion provided a platform to exchange experiences and perspectives on the role of day care services for older adults, which is an important approach for supporting elderly care and easing the burden on family caregivers. 

The Chula Day Care: Caring for Seniors for a Happy Retirement project focuses on providing daytime care services for elderly family members of Chulalongkorn personnel. The program follows the concept of person-centered care. Activities include promoting self-care skills, cognitive stimulation, muscle-strengthening exercises, and providing holistic health consultations for seniors and their families. 

In addition, the Center for Health and Well-being Promotion for Older People also serves as a learning and training hub for elderly caregivers, helping them develop appropriate knowledge and caregiving skills. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults and their families, enabling them to live happy and meaningful lives in an aging society.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/294052/

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Chulalongkorn University jointly hosted a University Town Hall event under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: Opportunities and Challenges for Future Generations.” The forum provided an opportunity for students to learn about and exchange their perspectives on the global economy with Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF. Her visit to Thailand was part of her participation in the Asia in 2050 Conference and to follow up on Thailand’s preparations for hosting the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings. 

The event was opened by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Closing remarks were delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tartat Mokkhamakkul, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy. Prof. Dr. Thitinan Pongsudhirak from the Department of International Relations, Faculty of Political Science, also joined the on-stage discussion. The event took place on March 5, 2026, at Room 212, Mahitaladhibesra Building, Chulalongkorn University. 

This discussion is a reflection of Thailand’s commitment to creating space for younger generations to engage in the global economic arena under the concept “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience.” The initiative focuses on empowering citizens—especially the youth—to become a key force in driving a strong and sustainable economy in the future. 

During the event, Chulalongkorn students actively exchanged their views on important topics such as the role of younger generations in the global economy, the future of Asia, and youth perspectives on driving a dynamic and resilient economy toward 2050. The atmosphere was filled with creative energy and active participation from students across various faculties at Chulalongkorn University. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/292717/

The Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Program Management Unit on Area-Based Development (PMU A), organized a special lecture on future paradigms for Asia under the 7th Asia Forward Series, titled “From Corridors to Confidence: Central Asia, the Middle Corridor, and Asia’s New Connectivity Architecture” on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Room 105, Maha Chulalongkorn Building, Chulalongkorn University.

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, delivered the welcoming remarks. The keynote lecture was presented by Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). The session was moderated by Associate Prof. Surat Horachaikul from the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University. This was followed by a panel discussion on “Peacebuilding and Cooperation in a Fragile World,” featuring distinguished experts. The event attracted strong interest from faculty members, diplomats, and members of the public.

Assoc. Prof. Pavika Sriratanaban, Director of the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, noted that the Asia Forward Series has been held continuously for over a year. The initiative aims to serve as a bridge to society by raising awareness and encouraging open dialogue. Over the past year, the Institute has taken pride in successfully linking policy-level engagement to concrete area-based implementation.

She emphasized that the 7th Asia Forward Series is particularly significant amid shifting global geopolitics, which present new challenges and demand fresh approaches for positioning Thailand on the global stage. This edition highlighted Central Asia and the Middle Corridor—key strategic regions in the transformation of global geography. Although historically regarded as landlocked, Central Asia has now become a vital hub of air and land connectivity stretching from Russia and China to Europe, with notable strengths in energy, green technology, and infrastructure.

The event was honored by the presence of Ambassador Kairat Sarybay, Secretary General of CICA, who delivered the keynote address titled “From Connectivity to Confidence.” His participation reaffirmed the role of the Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, as a “think tank” entrusted by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen engagement with Central Asia. CICA is a multilateral intergovernmental forum comprising 28 member states, including Thailand, dedicated to building confidence for peace and security across Asia.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/290767/

On February 27, 2026, at Meeting Room 702 of the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, and the reception room of the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, welcomed a delegation from Tsinghua University led by Prof. Guo Yong, Vice Chancellor of the Tsinghua University Council, along with Prof. Liu Jian of the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA) and colleagues. The delegation attended the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two universities.

The agreement aims to develop personnel capacity, strengthen knowledge infrastructure, and foster innovation in academic information systems—expanding beyond existing academic and research collaborations. It also seeks to promote the role of the “modern library” as a key university infrastructure supporting teaching, research, and innovation at the international level.

The MOU was formally signed by Associate Professor Dr. Amorn Petsom, Director of the Office of Academic Resources at Chulalongkorn University, and Prof. Jianbin Jin, Director of the Tsinghua University Library. The agreement establishes a results-oriented and action-driven framework focusing on human resource development, knowledge infrastructure enhancement, and joint innovation.

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat emphasized the importance of borderless education, stating that in an increasingly interconnected world, collaboration among leading higher education institutions extends beyond academic exchange to building a borderless knowledge ecosystem. While countries may have borders, education should not. This partnership reflects both universities’ commitment to sharing resources, strengthening academic excellence, and creating positive regional and global impact.

Prof. Guo Yong noted that this MOU lays a strong foundation for long-term cooperation between the two institutions, which have maintained close relations through ongoing exchanges of executives and staff. The collaboration will open opportunities for academic exchanges, digital resource integration, innovative research, and the responsible application of AI. He also invited Chulalongkorn representatives to visit Tsinghua University in the near future.

Prof. Jianbin Jin highlighted that this agreement marks an important milestone in library collaboration, which began in 2018 through the Asian Universities Alliance network. Both institutions bring complementary strengths and can share knowledge resources to enhance mutual capabilities. In the era of the Digital Revolution, libraries must serve both as guardians of knowledge and as drivers of digital transformation, leveraging AI to support management and research. A joint academic conference is also planned under the AUA Library Practice Dialogue in November.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Amorn Petsom added that modern university libraries function as academic ecosystems supporting research and stewarding institutional knowledge. This MOU represents a shared mission to pursue practical collaboration through three main approaches: personnel capacity development, joint innovation initiatives, and knowledge resource exchange. It also promotes AI-driven services, open data management, and digital preservation within relevant legal frameworks.

This collaboration will advance joint efforts in key areas of modern library and academic infrastructure development, including:

• Personnel development and knowledge exchange through study visits, staff exchanges, fellowship programs, seminars, training sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities.
• Joint academic activities and innovation development, leading to shared scholarly outputs such as conferences, co-authored academic papers, collaborative research, and innovation projects—such as AI development to enhance service efficiency and complex support functions, research data management, and digital preservation for the long-term stewardship of digital information resources.
• Information and resource sharing to support teaching and research, conducted in compliance with copyright laws and each institution’s data usage policies.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/290788/