Tag: Thailand

Students from Chulalongkorn University Demonstration School (Satit Chula), competing as the CUD Smart Bold Fit Team, won the First Prize at the Sport Science Innovation Contest 2026, organized by the Sports Science Bureau, Department of Physical Education, on July 9, 2026, at Nimibutr Stadium, National Stadium, Bangkok.

The CUD Smart Bold Fit Team’s cutting-edge innovation, titled “Ecosystem-Based Fitness Innovation,” transforms the school environment into a space that actively promotes physical activity and healthy living. The system integrates sports science with digital monitoring technologies, consisting of three main components: Exercise Stations, AI Motion Analysis, and Data & Gamification Engine. The aim of this innovation is to motivate students to exercise while enabling continuous evaluation of physical fitness at both the individual and school levels.

BOLD FIT ECOSYSTEM: “Ecosystem-Based Fitness Innovation” 

Chulalongkorn University Demonstration Secondary School

Members:

Mr. Thipok Tangsiripat

Mr. Teerapat Srijit

Miss Jirachaya Hemaranroj

Mr. Tin Toojinda

Mr. Panthach Toojinda 

Mr. Sethapong Mahattanakul

Mr. Pattarapol Wanichwatana

Mr. Thawin Uttamote

Advisor: Ajarn Hanafee Yeesunsong

The Sport Science Innovation Contest 2026 was organized to provide a platform for young people, university students, and the general public with an interest and talent in sports science to showcase their creativity and innovation. The competition also aims to promote the development and dissemination of new inventions, research, and ideas in sports science and sports technology. The goal is also for these innovations to be further developed and applied in practical settings to benefit the Department of Physical Education’s target groups, including athletes, sports professionals, and the general public.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/418466/

On Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn made a private royal visit to meet Her Royal Highness Anne, The Princess Royal of the United Kingdom, sister of His Majesty King Charles III, at Room 114 of Maha Chulalongkorn Building, Chulalongkorn University. 

The meeting took place during The Princess Royal’s visit to Chulalongkorn University to present fellowships and awards for women in science and technology. The event was jointly hosted by Chulalongkorn University and Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.

Upon arriving at Maha Chulalongkorn Building, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn laid floral garlands before the royal portraits of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) in tribute before proceeding to Room 112, where she awaited the arrival of The Princess Royal.

Earlier, at 10:40 a.m., the Princess Royal arrived at Chulalongkorn University near Biology Building 1 of the Faculty of Science. She was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council; Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University; members of the university administration; and Dr. Krisada Kritayakirana, Chief Executive Officer of Urban Mobility Tech Co., Ltd., operator of the MuvMi electric tuk-tuk service. Following the welcoming ceremony, Princess Royal toured the university campus aboard an electric three-wheeled vehicle.

At 11:10 a.m., The Princess Royal arrived at the Maha Chulalongkorn Building, where she was received by Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai; Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat; senior university administrators; representatives from the Faculty of Science; and officials from the British Embassy in Thailand.

The Princess Royal laid floral garlands before the royal portraits of King Chulalongkorn and King Vajiravudh in the building’s main hall before proceeding to Room 114, where she held a private audience with Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. On this occasion, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presented a commemorative gift to The Princess Royal before returning.

At 11:20 a.m., The Princess Royal visited an exhibition showcasing scientific, technological, and innovative achievements by Thai women researchers and innovators in Room 103/2 of the Maha Chulalongkorn Building. She was briefed by Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat; Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul; Professor Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science; and Associate Professor Dr. Intouch Hongrattanawijit, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Science.

The exhibition highlighted the capabilities of Thai women researchers and innovators whose work has been supported through United Kingdom programs. It featured projects applying scientific and technological knowledge to address major societal challenges in environmental sustainability, agriculture, education, healthcare, and biodiversity.

During the visit, the Princess Royal granted audiences to several women innovators supported by UK programs, including:

·       Dr. Pongkarn Chakthranont, National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), who presented an electrochemical reactor prototype for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) that converts captured carbon into renewable energy.

·       Professor Dr. Alisa Vangnai, Chief Technology Officer of Biome Co., Ltd., a spin-off company from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Science, who presented engineered enzymes designed to restore soil quality and remove pesticide residues from agricultural land.

·       Associate Professor Dr. Panrasee Ritthipravat, founder of Floaino, an educational platform that teaches artificial intelligence to teachers and students, demonstrates interactive AI learning activities.

·       Assistant Professor Dr. Somrudee Deepaisarn of Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, who presented AI applications supporting osteoporosis screening and diagnosis, together with a privacy-focused virtual hospital platform.

·       Dr. Kanuengnit Wayo of Walailak University, who presented research on agricultural landscapes supporting stingless bee communities, along with honey products from southern Thailand.

Following the exhibition, The Princess Royal proceeded to Room 105 of the Maha Chulalongkorn Building. Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat presented the objectives of the event and reported on scientific and technological cooperation between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Thailand.

The Princess Royal then delivered the opening address and presented one fellowship for women in science and technology and two awards recognizing outstanding women in science and technology. The fellowship recipient and award recipients subsequently delivered speeches.

After the presentation ceremony concluded, The Princess Royal signed the university’s guest book in the main hall of the Maha Chulalongkorn Building before departing.

The Princess Royal visited Thailand together with her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, from July 16-17, 2026, to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the British and Thai royal families. This marked her fourth official visit to Thailand, following previous visits in 1972, 1979, and 1987.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/418436/

Chulalongkorn University, through the CU Innovation Hub, has signed a licensing agreement with Greater Pharma Manufacturing Co., Ltd. to transfer probiotic technology developed from indigenous Thai microbial strains. The technology will be commercialized as health products under the Prometa brand. This marks another significant step in bringing Thai research from the laboratory to the marketplace while strengthening Thailand’s health industry through innovations developed by Thai researchers.

The signing ceremony took place on July 16, 2026, at the Chamchuri Square Building, Chulalongkorn University. The agreement was signed in the presence of Prof. Dr. Rungsun Rerknimitr, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University; Prof. Dr. Somying Tumwasorn, Principal Investigator; and Mr. Chernporn Tengamnuay, Managing Director of Greater Pharma Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

The transferred technology is a multi-strain probiotic formulation consisting of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus L34, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei L45, and Bifidobacterium bifidum NB42. These indigenous Thai microbial strains were selected and developed through research at Chulalongkorn University. The formulation is designed to promote a healthy gut microbiome and has potential applications in supporting metabolic health, including chronic kidney disease, overweight and obesity, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver disease.

Preclinical studies have shown that probiotic formulation can reduce fat accumulation, lower blood glucose and lipid levels, and decrease inflammation associated with metabolic disorders in animal models.

Prof. Dr. Rungsun Rerknimitr, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University, stated, “Chulalongkorn University is committed to translating research into real-world applications through collaboration with the private sector. We focus on developing probiotic products supported by strong scientific evidence and clinically credible outcomes. This innovation has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which are important because chronic inflammation contributes to many serious diseases. By helping reduce inflammation, these probiotics may improve patient health. This collaboration reflects the university’s role in creating research with practical value, while the private sector plays a vital role in bringing these innovations to consumers. Integrating scientific research with commercial expertise provides a model for systematically improving quality of life through evidence-based innovation.”

Prof. Dr. Somying Tumwasorn, the project’s principal investigator, explained, “This research utilizes three probiotic strains—Lactobacillus casei L34, Lactobacillus paracasei L45, and Bifidobacterium NB42. Genetic sequencing has confirmed that these are unique strains not found elsewhere in the world, and they meet Thai FDA safety standards. Because these microorganisms were isolated from Thai individuals, they are particularly well adapted to the physiology and diet of Thai people. For example, strain L34 shows greater tolerance to capsaicin (the active compound in chili peppers) than imported commercial strains. It also helps reduce inflammation, strengthens the intestinal barrier by preventing leaky gut, blocks toxins from entering the bloodstream, and supports the balance of the gut microbiota.”

Mr. Chernporn Tengamnuay, Managing Director of Greater Pharma Manufacturing Co., Ltd., commented: “This collaboration between academia and industry represents the successful translation of research into commercial products while reducing Thailand’s reliance on imported probiotic strains. Our focus is on developing Thai probiotic strains specifically suited to the health needs of Thai people. The primary goal of this innovation is to reduce inflammation in patients with kidney disease, establishing a new standard for treatment backed by credible scientific evidence. Beyond advancing Thailand’s biotechnology capabilities, this project will also provide the public with greater access to high-quality health supplements that address genuine medical needs in a sustainable way.”

This partnership highlights the power of collaboration between universities and the private sector in transforming research into commercial applications. By leveraging effective intellectual property management, the initiative creates added value from academic research and supports the development of innovative products that address societal needs, strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness, and promote the sustainable growth of the country’s innovation-driven economy.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/418413/

To mark World Environment Day 2026 on June 5, 2026, the Chula Zero Waste initiative, led by the Office of Physical Resource Management, Chulalongkorn University, invited young volunteers to participate in the Trash Ranger & Brand Audit activity. Participants collected litter along Phaya Thai Road, focusing on waste that had been overlooked by street cleaners because it was hidden in bushes both inside and outside the Chulalongkorn University campus. The activity aimed to reduce the risk of this litter being washed into drains and waterways, where it could place additional burdens on the environment and harm wildlife.

After collecting the litter, participants worked together to sort it into different categories so that the waste could be transformed into resources, with each type sent to the most appropriate recycling or disposal stream. Most of the items collected were everyday waste commonly found in public spaces, including plastic water bottles, beer bottles, energy drink bottles, bottle caps, milk cartons, drinking straws, beverage cans, cigarette packs, cigarette butts, single-use containers, snack and candy wrappers, plastic bags, and plastic packaging. Among all the waste collected, the most difficult item to handle was plastic water bottles that still contained urine inside.

One of the participating Grade 9 students offered a thoughtful reflection on the waste collected: “The wide variety of litter we found, from food and drink packaging to cigarette packs, cigarette butts, and even water bottles filled with urine, may have come from people who live on this street or from people who were in such a hurry and had no access to a restroom that they resorted to using a bottle. We can look at this issue from many perspectives, such as a lack of awareness about the consequences of littering or simply carelessness. It also raises ethical questions about disposing of waste properly. Caring for the environment is important. However, for people who are struggling just to make ends meet, environmental responsibility may seem like a luxury that feels removed from them when earning enough money to survive is already a challenge.”

The Chula Zero Waste Project is committed to organizing activities like this on an ongoing basis to encourage young people and university students to become more aware of environmental issues and inspire them to create change, from themselves to society at large. Those interested in participating can follow the project on all of its social media channels for updates on upcoming activities.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/418480/

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, welcomed H.E. Mr. Hari Prabowo, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Kingdom of Thailand, Head of Mission, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), together with delegates from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Thailand. The meeting took place on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the reception room on the second floor of the Chamchuri 4 Building.

During the visit, the two parties discussed ways to strengthen educational and cultural cooperation between Chulalongkorn University and higher education institutions in the Republic of Indonesia. They also exchanged views on issues and potential areas for future collaboration, reaffirming their shared commitment to enhancing academic partnerships and promoting joint activities between Chulalongkorn University and its partner institutions in Indonesia.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/417948/

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, welcomed Professor Ji-Beom Yoo, President of Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Republic of Korea, and his delegation during their visit to Chulalongkorn University. The meeting focused on exploring opportunities to expand academic collaboration, with particular emphasis on joint research and faculty exchange. The discussion took place on July 6, 2026, at the reception room on the 2nd floor of the Chamchuri 4 Building.

Also participating in the meeting were Associate Professor Dr. Palanee Ammaranond, Vice President; Professor Dr. Rungsun Rerknimitr, Vice President; Associate Professor Dr. Witaya Wannasuphoprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering; and representatives from the Faculty of Engineering.

The discussion aimed to strengthen cooperation between the two universities through faculty exchange and collaborative research projects, particularly in the fields of nanotechnology and engineering. Both institutions also explored ways to leverage their respective research strengths to advance innovation and address emerging global challenges.

During the meeting, the SKKU delegation introduced the SKKU Advanced Institute of Nano Technology (SAINT), presenting its research capabilities and achievements in nanotechnology and engineering.

Following the discussions, both universities reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening academic ties and expanding research collaboration through continued dialogue and the development of future joint initiatives.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/417909/

Mr. Kittikorn Hongyim, a doctoral student in the Educational System Management and Leadership (ESML) international program at the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, has been selected as a youth representative to participate in the 4th Tsinghua Global Youth Dialogue (TGYD 2026). Organized by Tsinghua University in the People’s Republic of China, the program takes place from June 27 to July 10, 2026.

Held under the theme “Bridging the Divides through Innovation,” this year’s dialogue brings together more than 120 youth leaders from over 60 countries. Over the course of two weeks, participants engage in panel discussions, study visits, and cross-cultural exchanges in Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing. The program highlights the importance of human capital development and international collaboration as essential foundations for advancing the future of education.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/417574/

Today, media has become a powerful force in “truth-making.” Understanding media, engaging with it critically, and using it ethically are therefore essential, as everyone now plays the dual role of content creator and consumer. As information spreads at the touch of a finger, the world is changing at an unprecedented pace. In the digital age, media is no longer merely a channel or intermediary for communication. It has become a powerful tool for shaping reality and influencing how people perceive and understand the world around them.

 

Highlights

·       Media: From a Medium to a Co-Creator of Social Reality

·       Differences Among Print, Television, and Online Media

·       Influencers: A Force More Powerful Than Traditional Media 

·       How to Communicate Effectively with Different Generations 

·       Six Ethical Principles for Media Use in the Digital Age 

·       Chulalongkorn University’s Role in an AI-Driven World 

 

Dr. Chanettee Tinnam, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Communication Arts, shared key insights into understanding media in the digital age—from the growing influence of influencers and effective communication across generations to the ethical responsibilities of modern communicators. Together, these perspectives encourage us to engage with media critically and ethically, recognizing the role each of us plays in shaping the realities we share.

 

When people hear the word “media,” many tend to think of it as a channel or intermediary through which information is transmitted from a sender to a receiver. However, according to Dr. Chanettee, media carries a much deeper significance. 

 

·       Dr. Chanettee explained that the evolution of media can be divided into three distinct eras, each with different levels of influence and roles within society: The Traditional Media Era: Media functioned as “storytellers.” Newspapers and printed publications, for example, played a central role in providing information and generating knowledge. During this period, power largely resided with the sender of the message. 

·       The Broadcasting Era: Media became “agenda setters” as radio and television brought large, the same messages to large audiences simultaneously.

·       The Digital Age: Media has evolved into a “network of storytellers,” where everyone can act as both a receiver and a sender of information. Algorithms have replaced editors, and “truth” emerges through the interaction of multiple perspectives, thus creating interpretive frameworks that shape how individuals perceive and understand reality.

 

Differences Among Print, Television, and Online Media

Each type of media has distinct characteristics and plays a unique role in society. Dr. Chanettee explained the key strengths of each medium as follows: 

 

Print Media

The primary strengths of print media are its credibility and careful editorial review process. Although it may be slower due to the need for thorough fact-checking and content vetting, print media is particularly well suited for in-depth analysis and detailed explanations.

 

Television

Television’s strength lies in its ability to communicate through both visuals and sound. It is especially effective for news reporting, live event coverage, and generating emotional engagement among audiences. Its limitations include relatively high production costs and a communication model that is largely one-to-many. 

 

Online Media

Online media excels in speed, interactivity, and personalization. However, because online content is not always subject to rigorous review, it is also more vulnerable to fake news.

“Influencers” have the status of a full-fledged media because they have all the basic elements, namely the messenger, the content, and the receiver.

“Influencers” have the status of a full-fledged media because they have all the basic elements, namely the messenger, the content, and the receiver.

Influencers: A Force More Powerful Than Traditional Media 

Today, the rise of “influencers” across social media platforms and online channels has become a major force reshaping the media landscape. According to Dr. Chanettee, influencers are now media entities in their own right because they possess all the fundamental elements of communication: a sender, content, and an audience (receiver). 

 

“A single influencer can drive a product to sell out within 24 hours or damage a brand’s reputation overnight. This is because they possess something that traditional media often lacks, which are “an emotional connection” with “their followers.” As a result, in many situations, influencers wield greater influence over audiences than traditional media. It can also be expected that influencers will become an even more powerful form of media than mainstream media in the future.

 

How to Communicate Effectively with Different Generations 

One of the greatest challenges facing communicators today is delivering messages that resonate with people across different age groups. The key lies in making the audience “feel that the issue is relevant to them.” Dr. Chanettee outlines the communication preferences and media consumption patterns of different generations as follows:

 

·       Gen X and Baby Boomers

Platforms: Television, LINE, Facebook

Communication methods: Clear, reliable, and backed up with sources

·       Gen Y

Platforms: YouTube, Facebook

Communication methods: Logically explained and relatable

·       Gen Z

Platforms: TikTok, Instagram

Communication methods: Short and concise, with genuine storytelling 

 

Six Ethical Principles for Media Use in the Digital Age 

In an era where everyone can become a media creator and communicate anytime, anywhere, ethical communication is more important than ever. It helps ensure that communication is purposeful, constructive, and socially responsible. Dr. Chanettee outlines six key “ethical principles” for communication in the digital age: 

 

Principle of Accuracy

Present information that is accurate, complete, and truthful. Communicators should avoid distorting facts, perpetuating myths, or reinforcing biases that lead to misinformation. News and other content should also clearly distinguish factual information from unfounded narratives or misconceptions, enabling audiences to recognize the difference.

 

Principle of Objectivity

Maintain neutrality and avoid allowing personal biases or feelings to influence the presentation of facts.

 

Principle of Human Rights

Acknowledge and respect the dignity and rights of individuals featured in news. Communicators should avoid violating personal privacy, such as by disclosing sensitive personal information that connects to numbers or exploiting victims of tragedies through sensationalized reporting.

 

Principle of Diversity

Recognize cultural diversity and differences. Communicators should avoid judging individuals solely according to the norms and values of mainstream society.

 

Principle of Fairness and Balance

Provide equal opportunities for all parties to present their views. Media should allow different stakeholders to exchange information and respond to one another fairly.

 

Principle of Responsibility

Prioritize the broader impact of communication on society. Communicators should refrain from creating or reproducing content that promotes harmful beliefs or behavior and does not contribute positively to the public good.

 

Chulalongkorn University’s Role in an AI-Driven World 

Universities must evolve to keep pace with the emerging challenges of a new educational landscape. According to Dr. Chanettee, Chulalongkorn University should no longer be viewed merely as “a producer of graduates” but rather as “a creator of a knowledge ecosystem.” 

 

“The role of the university is to cultivate ‘communicators who can think critically and lead society in the right direction,’ not simply individuals who know how to produce content. Universities should also serve as testing grounds for new forms of media, such as immersive media and AI journalism. At the same time, they should function as centers for fact-checking and as trusted sources of knowledge across all disciplines.” 

 

The greatest challenge is designing teaching methods to compete with both the physical and virtual worlds. Learning materials must be structured so that students can learn not only in the classroom but also through social media while using AI as a tool to enhance learning. Also, universities and educators must continually rethink their teaching approaches to keep pace with a rapidly changing world without compromising the quality of education.

 

“Universities must move away from the mindset that they are the only source of knowledge. Instead, they should see themselves as institutions that cultivate ways of thinking, with AI serving as a tool, not the final answer to communication,” Dr. Chanettee added. 

 

In closing, Dr. Chanettee emphasized that in today’s world and the future, media is no longer merely a tool or channel for transmitting information. Rather, it is a powerful mechanism for shaping identities and the perception of people in society. Amid the overwhelming flow of information and the advancement of AI technologies that are transforming the world, a firm commitment to media ethics and social responsibility will serve as the essential compass for the next generation of communicators. By adhering to these principles, they will not only be capable of producing “content” but also of guiding society toward a more truthful, just, and sustainable future.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/416601/