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Tag: Thailand

Thammasat Pioneers Robotic Heart Surgery

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University Hospital, in honor of His Majesty the King, announces the successful launch of the innovation ‘Heart Surgery’ utilizing robotic-assisted surgery technology (Da Vinci XI), marking the ‘first time in Thailand’ that robotic-assisted surgery has been employed for patients with heart disease. This reinforces its position as a leader in Digital Hospital and a center of excellence in the region.

         Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilok Piyayotai, M.D., Director of Thammasat University Hospital, stated that the hospital’s main mission is to bring world-class innovations to transform the future of treatment. The introduction of the robotic surgical system (Da Vinci XI) for heart surgeries not only enhances the capabilities of medical personnel but also emphasizes patient-centered care, ensuring that patients receive safe, precise treatment and an improved quality of life after surgery.

         Asst. Prof. Dr. Boonlawat Homvises, M.D., a medical doctor and surgeon specializing in cardiac and thoracic surgery, commented on the advantages of robotic-assisted heart surgery (Da Vinci XI). He stated that this technology features robotic arms that can rotate freely beyond the limitations of human wrists and provides high-definition 3D imaging. This capability allows surgeons to perform intricate procedures on the heart with precision and detail, resulting in significantly smaller surgical incisions, reduced blood loss, and facilitating a noticeably faster recovery for patients compared to traditional open-heart surgery.

         This achievement marks another significant step for the hospital in enhancing its medical treatment capabilities by incorporating robotic surgical technology (Da Vinci XI) in heart surgeries. This reflects the hospital’s readiness in terms of modern medical technology, a highly skilled medical team, and safety standards in patient care.

Chula Day Care for Happy Retirement Continues

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

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/

Chula and IMF Host Town Hall

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

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/

Thammasat, UN Thailand Launch SDG Platform

Posted on by Thammasat University

Rector of Thammasat University, Prof. Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, welcomed Ms. Michaela Friberg-Storey, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Thailand, along with a working group from various United Nations agencies, to discuss strategic cooperation in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on February 12, 2026, at Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus.

With the participation of Asst. Prof. Chol Bunnag, Assistant to the Rector for Quality Development and Sustainability, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dumrong Adunyarittigun, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supranee Lisawadi, Assistant to the Rector for Research and Innovation, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kedkun Srakawee, Dean of Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies.

Prof. Dr. Supasawad stated that Thammasat was established as a “University for the People” based on the principles of equality, democracy, and the creation of educational opportunities. The university’s identity and mission strongly align with promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also shared updates on the Bachelor of Science program in Sustainable Management, developed with the Global Compact Network. This program integrates knowledge from five faculties, Engineering, Science and Technology, Interdisciplinary College, Development Administration, and Social Work, to equip graduates for sustainable management roles in business and global organizations.

Ms. Friberg-Storey stated that Thammasat excels in translating knowledge into tangible outcomes for local communities, commending the university as a leading higher education institution that is progressive and forward-leaning, with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the core of its operations, amidst a global context where the values of sustainability are facing challenges.

Asst. Prof. Chol presented the “ONE TU” vision, which aims to integrate work among faculties and reduce fragmented operations. This vision also reflects progress in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the move towards a Carbon Neutral Campus, the promotion of gender equality and diversity, as well as serving as a neutral space for peaceful political expression. This commitment has resulted in Thammasat University being ranked first in Thailand and fourth in the world for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) in the THE Impact Rankings 2025.

In the area of research and innovation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supranee discussed the support provided to researchers in creating tangible outcomes that address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of health (SDG 3), innovation (SDG 9), and sustainable cities (SDG 11).

In the dimension of student development, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dumrong presented the IMPACT model (Interpersonal, Mindful, Progressive, Agility, Competence, Thriving) to develop graduates into global citizens ready to embrace change, alongside efforts to reduce educational disparities through scholarship systems. Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kedkunpresented initiatives to elevate “volunteer work” into a discipline through the development of courses and knowledge frameworks to support teaching and learning.

Thammasat University proposed two main collaborations with the UN: a decennial Post-2030 Agenda progress review integrating science, policy, and society (Science-Policy-Society Interface) for scenario planning and defining Thailand’s global strategies; and “Volunteerism for SDG Acceleration,” creating a National Volunteer Learning Platform and integrating volunteer work into ministry policies for structural change. The parties also discussed economic care, women in STEM, student volunteer opportunities, and inviting UN experts. This partnership makes Thammasat a national and regional UN Strategic Partner, boosting Thai higher education’s role in sustainable development and shaping the post-2030 global agenda.

Chula Unveils Strategies for Crisis Era

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

The Marketing Association of Thailand, in collaboration with the Department of Marketing, Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Chulalongkorn University, held a press conference to mark the association’s 60th anniversary, along with a forum titled “Marketing in a World of Crisis.” The event took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at CBS Cinema, 3rd Floor, Chaiyossombat 1 Building, Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Chulalongkorn University. The opening remarks were delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Tartat Mokkhamakkul, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy. 

On this occasion, Dr. Buranin Rattanasombat, President of the Marketing Association of Thailand, and Assistant Professor Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun, Head of the Department of Marketing at Chulalongkorn Business School, announced the upcoming 60th anniversary celebration of the Marketing Association of Thailand and participated in a forum discussion. 

As part of the anniversary celebration, the association will honor outstanding marketers who have made significant contributions to the country by inducting them into the “Thailand Marketing Hall of Fame,” an honor bestowed every 10 years. This year will also see the presentation of the “Most Inspiring Marketers Award,” recognizing influential marketers who have inspired others and contributed to driving Thailand’s economy and society forward. 

Dr. Buranin Rattanasombat noted that over the past six decades, the association has served as a hub for developing marketing knowledge, building professional networks, and advancing Thailand’s marketing profession. On the occasion of its 60th anniversary, the association aims to elevate the role of marketing as a key strategy for driving Thailand’s economy and society toward sustainability. 

To elevate the selection process, the association has established a strategic partnership with the Department of Marketing at Chulalongkorn Business School. The collaboration integrates academic knowledge, research insights, and empirical data into the evaluation process to ensure that the selection is comprehensive, transparent, and internationally recognized, reinforcing the awards as the highest honor in Thailand’s marketing profession. 

“Marketing cannot exist without marketers. On our 60th anniversary, we want to highlight that Thai marketers are vital gears that help drive organizations, businesses, and the nation forward,” he said. 

Assistant Professor Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun added that, thanks to the collaboration with academic experts from the Department of Marketing, this year’s selection process has become more rigorous and systematic. The process incorporates over 10 years of collected statistical data from more than 100,000 nationwide samples, combined with nominations from a respected Expert Panel of leading figures in Thailand’s marketing industry. 

By applying research methodologies, statistical data analysis, and expert evaluation based on criteria covering achievements, industry impact, and contributions to society, the organizers aim to ensure that those honored truly represent exemplary figures in the marketing profession. 

The “Thailand Marketing Hall of Fame” and “Most Inspiring Marketeers Award” ceremonies aim to recognize individuals with outstanding achievements and significant influence on the development of Thailand’s marketing sector, while also inspiring both current and future generations of marketers. 

The event also featured a forum titled “Marketing in a World of Crisis,” where the speakers discussed the role of marketing in navigating today’s economic and business challenges. 

Dr. Buranin explained that although ASEAN is not directly at the center of conflicts in the Middle East, the region has been heavily affected by global supply chain disruptions, particularly in the energy sector. These disruptions have contributed to high inflation and persistent interest rates, signaling a shift in globalization toward a more fragmented global landscape. 

To cope with short-term impacts, businesses must remain calm, gather deep marketing insights by directly engaging customers, and build business alliances to share burdens and improve efficiency. Companies should also focus on local products and regional development to reduce future supply chain risks. 

For the long term, he recommended four guiding principles:

  • Redefining marketing, 
  • Building mental resilience, 
  • Reforming and adapting to the new world, and 
  • Redesigning systems with technology integration. 

Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun added that high levels of uncertainty often lead consumers to delay or reduce spending. According to a survey by the Marketing Association of Thailand, this is the first year that marketing budgets have been significantly reduced, with even deeper cuts occurring during periods of regional conflict. 

He proposed four marketing strategies that businesses should apply together to encourage consumer spending:

1. Less is More 

In times of uncertainty, consumers become cautious about spending. Businesses can reduce product size or commitment levels to make purchasing decisions easier—encouraging customers to buy smaller quantities but more frequently. 

2. Niche but Wide 

Focus on a highly specific target group that, despite its niche nature, has a sufficiently large customer base and purchasing power—often with minimal competition. 

3. Quiet but Loud 

Reduce broad advertising methods such as large billboards and instead use technology-driven targeted marketing. Ads may not be visible to the general public but can be extremely powerful for the intended audience. 

4. Cheap & Good 

Design marketing campaigns with low costs but high impact, helping organizations protect their budgets during periods of marketing budget cuts. 

Dr. Ake emphasized that businesses must apply all four strategies together. For instance, it would not be effective to adopt a “Less is More” product strategy while simultaneously investing heavily in expensive advertising campaigns that contradict the “Cheap & Good” principle. 

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular, he suggested avoiding price wars with large corporations, which possess stronger financial resources. Instead, SMEs should focus on deeply understanding niche customer segments and tailoring strategies to serve those markets effectively.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/291622/

CICA Addresses 7th Asia Forward Series

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

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/

Thammasat Celebrates WorldNexGen 2026

Posted on by Thammasat University

Prof. Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Thammasat University Rector, along with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supreedee Rittironk, Vice President for International Affairs, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Orapan Yolrabil, from Department of Accounting, Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, participated in the closing ceremony of WorldNexGen 2026 project on February 5, 2026, at the Convention Hall (SNU Faculty Club) of Seoul National University (SNU), Republic of Korea.

Certificates were awarded to 20 students who completed the WorldNexGen 2026 program by Prof. Dr. Supasawad and Prof. Park San Gook, from Department of Science and Technology Policy at Seoul National University.

Thammasat and KH Academy, a network of educational partners, have developed the WorldNexGen project in collaboration with SNU, the top university in the Republic of Korea. The project facilitates academic exchange in economics, industry, trade, investment, and socio-cultural aspects across the ASEAN region. Students will participate in active learning to develop future international leaders.

Prof. Dr. Supasawad described WorldNexGen not just as an academic exchange, but a “platform for collaborative learning” uniting institutions from Bangkok to Seoul. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders with intellectual strength, cultural understanding, and a global vision, essential for the region and the world. He also offered three key insights to Thammasat students: 1) Use the knowledge and innovations from Seoul to improve Thai society. 2) Maintain this network, as future challenges like digitalization and sustainable development require collaboration. 3) Be an empathetic leader who listens as much as they lead.

Among many, Mr. Tanee Sangrat, Thai Ambassador to South Korea, H.E. Chung Sye-kyun, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Prof. Dr. Juhan Kim, Vice President for Research at Seoul National University, Mr. Ahn Duk Geun, former Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy, Mr. Park Won Joo, former Senior Economic Policy Secretary to the President, Mr. Kim Kang Hak, Chairman of Myungwoon Industry Development, Mr. Peeradech Patthanachanj, Chief Executive Officer of Renewable Energy Development Business at B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, Mr. Chanchai Sanguanwong, Director of the Business News Newspaper, and Mr. Burapha Sanguanwong, Founder of KH Academy also participated at the ceremony.

Chula and Tsinghua University Sign MOU

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

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/

Thammasat Debuts ‘New Gen Executive’

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University’s Faculty of Social Administration, in collaboration with the Foundation of Thai Gerontology Research and Development Institute (TGRI) and five local administrative organizations (LAOs), launched the “New Age Management Executives for the Elderly” program. This initiative, part of the “Developing the Potential of New Age Management Executives for the Elderly through Co-Creation in the Community” project, aims to transform LAOs from “service providers” into “new age management executives” to prepare for a Super Aged Society. The launch event took place on January 28, 2026, at Centara Life Bangkok Hotel, attended by representatives from relevant agencies, LAO executives, and public health volunteers.

LAOs participating in the project include Bueng Yitho Municipality in Pathum Thani Province, Hua Hin Municipality in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Tap Ma Subdistrict Municipality in Rayong Province, Na Sarn Municipality in Surat Thani Province, and Thepharak Subdistrict Municipality in Samut Prakan Province.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Natthapachara Sarobol, from Department of Social Policy, Social Development, and Community Development, specializing in Elderly Welfare at the Faculty of Social Work, Thammasat University, and the leader of the curriculum implementation team, has revealed that the situation of the elderly in Thailand is becoming increasingly complex. By the year 2025, Thailand is expected to have approximately 13 million elderly individuals, accounting for 21.6% of the total population, with projections indicating an increase to 31.4% by the year 2042. The country’s care system faces major challenges due to over 340,000 dependent elderly individuals, limited caregivers, and a rise in elders living alone. The crucial solution is developing non-monetary welfare (In-kind Services) as a national priority, such as elderly daycare, quality of life centers, and schools, primarily managed by Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs). However, LAOs are constrained by a lack of specialized personnel, skills for complex problem management, and poor work integration.

Dr. Somsak Chunharas, TGRI Chairman and a research scholarship supporter, stressed that qualitative development in an aging society requires strong local communities. He proposed the government shift from a direct service provider to a service purchaser. Instead of building hospitals, communities should manage resources to procure quality services from networks or the private sector, creating a care “ecosystem.” He argued that cash assistance like pensions is inadequate; investment in public services is necessary to ensure the elderly can live independently and with dignity in their communities.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Phinitbhand Paribatra, Vice President for Research and Innovation at Thammasat University, emphasized the university’s focus on developing an elderly care system in Thailand, crucial due to limited national budgets and the rapid transition to an aging society without being a leading industrial nation. Thammasat, in collaboration with faculties like Social Administration and Engineering, promotes and disseminates research, policy, and innovation to local communities and administrative organizations. This collaboration is crucial for creating learning spaces and enhancing the elderly’s quality of life. Since the government cannot efficiently manage all sectors, especially the elderly, networks with local administrative bodies are vital for progress. The challenge requires cooperation across all sectors to develop social and economic systems, making the current training program for local administrative executives a positive step.

Key policy proposals discussed included: shifting elderly healthcare to a co-payment system for sustainability; streamlining regulations and budget processes for faster, locally-responsive disbursement; and restructuring policies to empower local administrative organizations (LAOs) for comprehensive, regionally-adapted elderly care with adequate budget, personnel, and morale support, ensuring a robust local system.

Thammasat Reinvents to Tackle Aging Society

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University, in collaboration with its Faculty of Public Health, has partnered with the global organization Leave a Nest from Singapore and a network of innovation affiliates to launch the international academic conference, Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference (HIC) Thailand 2026, on January 31, 2026, at Puey Ungphakorn Centenary Learning Park, Thammasat University, Rangsit Center. The conference committed to “Universities Reimagined,” transforming universities into Innovation Catalysts to address the national agenda for a sustainable transition to a Super-Aged Society. This platform unites professors, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and partners, both domestic and international, to exchange knowledge, build networks, and promote applicable research and innovation through lectures, discussions, and exhibitions.

The HIC Thailand 2026 event this year is held under the theme “Re-imagining Connections: From Education to Ecosystem,” which represents a significant reform in the structure of collaboration. It is not limited to academic exchanges but aims to connect “social structures, communities, the environment, and the industrial sector” together. Crucially, it seeks to transform visionary ideas into tangible innovations to enhance competitiveness on a global scale and to keep pace with the challenges of the digital age.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Phinitbhand Paribatra, Vice President for Research and Innovation revealed that in 2025, Thammasat University, through the Faculty of Public Health, received support under the Reinventing University project on the topic of Creating Supportive Environments and Strengthening Health Behaviors for Quality Aging. This initiative aims to leverage science and innovation to address the national agenda concerning an aging society. The collaboration with Leave a Nest thus serves as a crucial mechanism in transforming the university into a future-oriented institution that focuses on providing solutions for society and developing the potential for elderly health on an international level.

Prof. Dr. Takeo Ogawa discussed “Innovation in Aging Society,” emphasizing that innovation includes social restructuring and leveraging age diversity, not just technology, to turn “burden” into “strength.” The platform allows researchers, startups, and experts to pitch ideas to judges and partners, receive feedback, compete for prizes, and gain commercial development opportunities. This fosters academia-business collaboration for comprehensive elderly care innovations, showcases Thai research and personnel readiness, and includes discussions to inform public policy. An exhibition will feature diverse health innovations (Health Tech) for the aging society, reflecting the innovation ecosystem promoted by Thammasat University.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Soisuda Kesornthong, Dean of Faculty of Public Health, added towards the end of the exchange that today’s interdisciplinary collaboration underscores that innovation and cross-border cooperation are essential in addressing the challenges of an aging society. The knowledge gained will be leveraged to create an environment and health behaviors conducive to sustainable quality of life, marking a significant step in Thailand’s innovation ecosystem. This is a crucial step that reaffirms that “Thammasat University and the Faculty of Public Health” are not merely providers of knowledge but are Future Shapers ready to drive Thailand towards becoming a regional hub for health innovation.