Tag: Thailand

Young innovators from Chulalongkorn University are transforming agricultural waste into pet health solutions, turning discarded quail eggshells into a dental care product for cats while earning support from Thailand’s next-generation startup funders.

The team of fourth-year students from the university’s Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, known as Kissy Meow—Kansinee Thaweesuprathan, Krirkkanok Terawanich, Khwanchanok Ritthitid, Saad Hayimad, and Varanya Panichnava—has been awarded a 150,000 baht grant from the TED Youth Startup Fund–IDEATION Program by CU Innovation Hub. Their innovation, “Oral Care Gummy for Cats,” repurposes agricultural waste into a functional product for both farmers and pet owners.

The idea addresses a common challenge. Cats often resist toothbrushing, leaving owners with limited options to manage oral health. In response, the team developed a chewable jelly designed to reach between teeth and help reduce plaque buildup.

The product uses bio-calcium derived from quail eggshells, a material largely unused in commercial products. It is combined with papain from papaya, which helps break down protein-based plaque, and peppermint leaf extracts, known for their antibacterial properties and ability to reduce odor. Together, these ingredients reflect a blend of natural resources and scientific design.

What gives the product its edge is a delivery system called “Triple Encapsulation.” The technology allows the active ingredients to be released gradually, coating the teeth over time rather than all at once. It is designed to work with the natural chewing behavior of animals.

Krirkkanok said the innovation responds to the growing pet care market, particularly the rising number of cat owners. The market is expanding by approximately 15% per year, creating opportunities for pet health products. 

She added that the product stands out for its innovative features, including the use of encapsulation technology to enhance ingredient effectiveness and the selection of bio-calcium from quail eggshells as a primary raw material—a first for this type of product. In addition to improving product performance, it adds value to agricultural waste and creates income opportunities for farmers.

With funding secured, the team plans to develop prototypes with researchers and manufacturers and conduct user testing. One challenge will be gaining acceptance from cats, which are known for their selective tastes. The team also plans to expand distribution channels and seek further funding as it moves toward commercialization.

For more information, please visit:

Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, Chulalongkorn University

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/CU.iAgri

Website: https://www.cusar.chula.ac.th/

CU Innovation Hub

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/cuihub

Website: https://cuihub.chula.ac.th/

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/299635/

Chulalongkorn University has officially announced the opening of applications for the Chula LINK Scholarship 2026, a funding program aimed at attracting talented international students to pursue graduate studies in Thailand. 

The scholarship—formally known as Chulalongkorn Leaders in International Networks and Knowledge (LINK)—is available for the first semester of the 2026 academic year and supports students enrolling in master’s or doctoral programs at the university. 

Who is eligible? 

Applicants must: 

• Be international students (not holding a Thai passport) 
• Have been admitted to Chulalongkorn University 
• Be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program 

Scholarship Coverage 

The Chula LINK Scholarship provides a comprehensive financial package, including: 

• Full tuition fees 
• A monthly living allowance 
• Round-trip airfare 

Application Details 

The application period runs from March 20 to 24 May 2026.  

Interested candidates can apply online through the official portal: 

https://grantgateway.research.chula.ac.th/www/Home/program?id=66f8e76b790f9b24f100000b

Contact Information  

For questions related to the scholarship program, please contact: 

The Office of International Affairs, Chulalongkorn University 

18th Floor, Chaloem Rajakumari 60 Building, Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand 10330 

LINE OA: @chula.oia 

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: +66 2 218 3333 

Website: https://www.inter.chula.ac.th/ 

For technical issues or questions about the application platform, please contact: 

Mr. Patipan Duangdee  

GrantGateway Administrator 

Phone: +66 2 218 0247 

Email: [email protected] 

The program reflects Chulalongkorn University’s ongoing commitment to strengthening international collaboration and fostering a global academic network. By offering financial support and access to advanced study, the university aims to cultivate future leaders across diverse fields of knowledge. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/298837/

Prof. Wu Qiong, Dean of the Academy of Arts and Design, Tsinghua University, welcomed Prof. Dr. Kumkom Pornprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, along with faculty members. A meeting was held to explore collaborative approaches in art for sustainable development between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China. 

The Tsinghua delegation included the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, the Head of the Sculpture Department, the Director of the Tsinghua University Art Institute at the Milan campus in Italy, and two additional art faculty members. The Chulalongkorn delegation included the Vice Dean for International Affairs, the Vice Dean for Administration, the Vice Dean for Special Affairs, the Assistant Dean for International Affairs, the Chair of the International Art Therapy Program, department heads, and faculty members from the Creative Arts and Visual Arts departments, totaling 10 participants. 

The Academy of Arts and Design at Tsinghua University is ranked 14th in the world in Art & Design by QS Ranking by Subject, 1st in China, and 3rd globally in Art History. 

Key discussion points included: 

• In 2027, Tsinghua University expressed its willingness to host a celebration in honor of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s 72nd birthday at Chulalongkorn University. 
• The Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, and Tsinghua University will co-host their first International Symposium on Art and Design. 
• Chulalongkorn University will send faculty members to participate in an art exhibition in mid-2026. 
• Both institutions will sign an academic cooperation agreement by 2026. 
• Tsinghua University is interested in sending students to enroll in non-degree summer programs. 

On March 19, 2026, Prof. Dr. Kumkom Pornprasit and faculty members met with executives from the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA). They were welcomed by Liang Lisha, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Faculty of Art Management and Education, along with Prof. Zhao Li (Vice Dean), Prof. Wang Qian (Director of the Faculty Office), Prof. Zhang Xuan (Head of the Art Therapy Program and Deputy Director of the Art Therapy Research Center), and Ding Yuan (Professor of Design Studies, School of Architecture). 

CAFA is the top national art institution in China and is ranked 17th globally by QS Ranking by Subject. Discussions focused on fostering long-term collaboration in art—especially fine arts—between the two institutions, including cooperation in art therapy, art education, and cross-cultural research. Both sides exchanged knowledge, with CAFA presenting systematic advancements in art therapy curriculum development, while Chulalongkorn shared approaches to using art for healing within the Thai social context. 

On March 21, 2026, the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, established academic collaboration with the Tsinghua (Qingdao) Academy of Arts and Science Innovation Research. Prof. Dr. Kumkom Pornprasit delivered opening remarks at the Asia-Pacific International Academic Symposium on Art Therapy and the Emotional Art Exhibition, alongside Prof. Dong Erdan (President of the University of Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine), Prof. Jin Hui (Dean, School of Fine Arts, Minjiang University), Prof. Liu Dan (Dean, School of Art, Northeast Agricultural University), and Prof. Wang Jiansong (Dean of the Tsinghua Qingdao Academy). 

At the symposium, former Dean Dr. Bussakorn Binson delivered a lecture titled “When No One Holds the Heart, Art Does!” The event also featured presentations and discussions on art as a therapeutic tool for healthcare, mental health rehabilitation, social engagement, the spiritual value of music, local contemporary art policy, art in public spaces, research methodologies, teaching practices, and the integration of AI with art. A total of 18 speakers from Thailand and abroad participated, with approximately 200 attendees. 

This academic collaboration aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: 

• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being 
• Goal 4: Quality Education 
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities 
• Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions 
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals 

It highlights the integration of art therapy, education, and international collaboration in promoting mental well-being, equitable access to learning, and sustainable social development in today’s global context. 

The Tsinghua (Qingdao) Academy of Arts and Science Innovation Research is a global design knowledge hub and the only one of its kind in Shandong Province. It was established as a new platform for education and research that integrates art, science, and technology (Art–Science Integration). The campus includes 15 large buildings equipped with laboratories and innovation centers, forming a comprehensive innovation ecosystem encompassing research, design, art, technology, prototyping, business incubation, and cultural exchange. 

This collaboration marks a significant step forward for the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts in advancing international cooperation in art, innovation, and art therapy with leading institutions in China. It is expected to lead to concrete developments in teaching, research, and personnel exchange, while strengthening academic networks between the two countries and enhancing the global potential of students and faculty. All parties are committed to sustaining this collaboration to create value for society and support sustainable development.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/296065/

Mr. Paul Patsapong Chomchey, an alumnus of the Executive MBA program and a PhD student in the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Technology and Entrepreneurial Innovation Management (interdisciplinary), or CUTIP, has brought international recognition to Chulalongkorn University at the global innovation stage with “BlueSalt+,” a next-generation low-sodium innovation, at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, held in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 11–15, 2026.

His innovation, “BlueSalt+,” competed in Class Q (Paramedical, Health, Nutrition, and Personal Care) and won two major awards:

·       Gold Medal with the Congratulations of the Jury, unanimously awarded by the international panel of judges.

·       NRCT Honorable Mention Award from the National Research Council of Thailand

Mr. Patsapong explained that the origin of this innovation builds upon the success of “SmartSalt”—a low-sodium seasoning for shabu soup—which previously won a gold medal and special awards at a Silicon Valley competition last year. The project focuses on addressing the global health crisis caused by excessive sodium consumption. However, deeper market analysis revealed a key barrier preventing the food industry from successfully reducing sodium: the “taste trade-off,” or loss of flavor.

“We were completely reframed from the problem. Instead of seeking salt substitutes that often leave a bitter aftertaste, we chose to integrate deep technology with neurosensory science to directly modify how the human brain perceives taste,” he said.

The key innovation behind BlueSalt+, a next-generation hybrid salt crystal, lies in combining precision nano-engineering with bio-based materials to design a new type of low-sodium hybrid salt crystal. This technology works directly with the sensory nervous system through a proprietary targeted flavor delivery mechanism, effectively stimulating saltiness and umami receptors on the tongue.

As a result, consumers can still experience rich, well-balanced flavors—even with the sodium level reduced by up to 40–50%.

This innovation addresses both B2B business needs and global sustainability goals. BlueSalt+ is designed for industrial scalability and can replace regular salt at a 1:1 ratio without requiring recipe reformulation. It is suitable for:

·       Clean-label products

·       Elderly nutrition

·       Diets for patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs)

Additionally, its use of bio-based materials helps reduce dependence on resource-intensive inputs and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This global achievement represents a collaboration across science, business, and culinary arts, made possible through strong support from Chulalongkorn University faculty and experts, including:

·       Prof. Dr. Sanong Ekgasit, project advisor guiding deep-tech research development

·       Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, who strengthened the business strategy and model

·       Asst. Prof. Dr. Kavin Asawanant, from CUTIP, helped shape innovation management vision

Support also came from InnoSolTech International Co., Ltd., which provided professional intellectual property management—an essential mechanism for protecting the technology and enabling safe and sustainable global commercialization.

The innovation is further enhanced by culinary expertise, with support from Chef Daniel Dusit Potiprasit, a French cuisine chef from Le Cordon Bleu Dusit and restaurateur of VINE HAPPEN. He contributed to designing and testing flavor dimensions, ensuring that BlueSalt+ delivers not only strong laboratory results but also a fine dining–level taste experience.

Mr. Patsapong concluded, “Our ultimate goal in joining this global competition was not merely to win a gold medal but to challenge and push beyond our own limits in order to perfect our product prototype. I believe that great innovation is not measured only in the laboratory—it must enhance people’s quality of life and serve as a sustainable solution to real societal problems. I would like to thank the CUTIP and MBA programs at Chulalongkorn University for being a powerful driving force in shaping both my innovation vision and business strategy, enabling BlueSalt+ to evolve from a research concept into a truly market-ready global innovation.”

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/296116/

On March 26, 2026, at 7:00 a.m., Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the ceremony marking the 109th anniversary of the founding of Chulalongkorn University.

Upon arrival at Chulalongkorn University, she presented a floral tribute and lit incense and candles in royal homage before the statues of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). She then proceeded to the area in front of the university auditorium, where she offered alms to 10 monks together with university executives, faculty members, staff, alumni, and current students.

Her Royal Highness then proceeded to the front portico of the auditorium, where she graciously received university council members, led by Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, and Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, along with representatives of faculty, staff, alumni, and students, to present their greetings and well-wishes on the occasion of her 71st birthday. On this occasion, she addressed the Chulalongkorn community, after which attendees sang the university anthem “Maha Chulalongkorn.”

Afterward, she proceeded to the reception room in the auditorium, where she permitted university executives and representatives from various sectors of the university community to present donations in support of royal charitable causes at her discretion. She also presented commemorative tokens to the benefactors of the university.

The Princess then attended a performance at the auditorium celebrating the university’s 109th anniversary. The program included traditional Thai music (Pi Phat ensemble), featuring the overture “Maha Chulalongkorn” performed by the university’s Thai music youth orchestra; a poetic recitation by students from the Faculty of Arts; vocal and instrumental performances of “O Lao” (Sam Chan) and the “Nopparat Dance”; and a special musical tribute titled “Phra Phu Hai” (“The Giver”), honoring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. The performance included royal compositions and featured ensembles such as the Sai Yai Chamchuri band, the university’s student orchestra, and a northern Thai folk music group, accompanied by dance performances from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts. On this occasion, Her Royal Highness herself sang the lead in “Phra Phu Hai,” played the traditional saw duang fiddle, and sang “Love’s Old Sweet Song.”

Her Royal Highness then proceeded to the Maha Chulalongkorn Building, where she laid a garland in homage before the portraits of King Chulalongkorn and King Vajiravudh. She also performed ceremonial anointing and blessing rites for the signs of the Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, the College of Extension and Lifelong Learning for the People, and the College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies.

Before departing, she took commemorative photographs with the university’s executives.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/296677/

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/