Anthrax: Chula Expert Explains Risks

Get to Know Anthrax: A Serious Zoonotic Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Proper Prevention Guidelines from a Chula Expert 

“Anthrax,” a disease outbreak affecting ruminant animals, has become one of the most widely discussed and searched diseases online, as it is a dangerous zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Reports of outbreaks and fatalities have appeared in several countries, including Thailand. For example, last year (2025), an anthrax outbreak occurred during April–May in Mukdahan Province, resulting in one death. Statistics since 1991 also revealed 19 deaths among Thai people caused by anthrax infection. 

Although anthrax outbreaks in Thailand have not been severe or persistent, preparedness and accurate knowledge remain the best forms of protection. In this regard, Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon Luangthongkum from the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, explains how the spores of the bacterium can survive in the environment for up to ten years and provides guidance on safety measures for farmers and consumers.  

      

What Is “Anthrax”?

Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This bacterium is capable of forming spores, allowing it to survive in suitable environments for decades. As a result, the spores can contaminate soil, animal hair, hides, and meat.

“Thailand has reported sporadic cases of anthrax from time to time, such as in Don Tan District, Mukdahan Province, last year. In addition, outbreaks have previously been reported in other provinces, including Tak, Kanchanaburi, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, and Phichit. However, these outbreaks have not been continuous,” explained Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon. 

Anthrax is most commonly found in herbivorous and ruminant animals, such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. The ways to help determine whether an animal is infected with anthrax are the following: 

  • Cattle and buffaloes: Animals infected with anthrax often die suddenly. Dark-colored blood may be seen oozing from natural body openings such as the nose, mouth, eyes, and anus. The carcass typically does not undergo normal rigor mortis and may become bloated and decompose rapidly. 
  •  Other animals: Signs are generally less distinctive. Some animals may develop swelling around the neck, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, difficulty swallowing, diarrhea, etc. 
  • “Other animal species, such as pigs and horses, as well as pets like dogs and cats, can also become infected with anthrax. However, dogs and cats are quite resistant to the disease. In most cases, these pets become infected by consuming raw meat of animals that have died of anthrax.” 

3 Ways of Anthrax Transmission from Animals and How to Recognize the Symptoms 

Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon explained that anthrax can be transmitted from animals to humans through contact with diseased animals, animal products derived from infected animals, or environments contaminated with anthrax spores. Such cases allow the pathogen to enter the body. Anthrax can infect humans through three main routes, each with a different level of severity, as follows: 

1. Skin infection: Caused by contact, this type of infection is most commonly found in people who work in occupations involving animal slaughter, as well as people who have abrasions or wounds on their hands, even minor ones. If they come into contact with meat or animal carcasses infected with anthrax, there is a chance the bacteria can enter the body.

Initial symptoms: The wound has a distinctive appearance known as an “eschar”—the area around the wound is swollen, and the center of the wound is dark, resembling dead tissue, similar to a cigarette burn.

2. Ingestion: Caused by eating raw or undercooked meat from infected animals.

Initial symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and in some cases bloody diarrhea

3. Inhalation: Caused by breathing in microscopic anthrax spores. This type of infection most commonly occurs with workers in textile manufacturing facilities, particularly when the animal wool or hides used in production originate from areas affected by anthrax outbreaks. 

“The severity of anthrax generally depends on the route through which the infection enters the body. However, inhalational is the most alarming form because it can cause severe pneumonia if a large number of spores are inhaled. In such cases, the mortality rate can be as high as 95%,” explained Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon.

Who is at risk? 

  1. Farmers and livestock raisers who come into close contact with infected animals without realizing it.
  2. Workers involved in animal slaughter and meat processing, particularly those handling carcasses of animals that have died suddenly or under unusual circumstances. 
  3. Workers in the wool, hide, and leather industries, especially in areas where anthrax outbreaks have previously occurred.
  4. People who consume raw meat dishes, such as larb, koi, or other foods containing raw animal blood. 

Treatment Approaches for Anthrax in Humans and Animals

Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon affirmed that anthrax is treatable with antibiotics, and the bacterium that causes the disease remains susceptible to the medications commonly used for treatment. 

For human patients, effective treatment options include penicillin, doxycycline, and antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class, such as ciprofloxacin. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the route of infection. For example, infection through the skin typically requires about seven days of treatment. In contrast, inhalational anthrax often requires treatment for up to 60 days, as spores that remain in the lungs may germinate and develop into active bacteria during that period. 

For animals, treatment can be carried out using the same classes of antibiotics. However, the key priority is “prevention” among animals living in high-risk areas. This is achieved through anthrax vaccination, administered to animals after weaning, followed by booster vaccinations every six months for a period of five consecutive years. This vaccination program helps build immunity and protect livestock in areas at risk of anthrax outbreaks.

How Can Anthrax Be “Prevented and Eliminated”? 

Effective management of anthrax requires cooperation from both farmers and consumers. Because this bacterium produces highly resilient spores that can survive in the environment for long periods, prevention involves more than simply avoiding contact with infected animals. It also requires proper handling of “animal carcasses” and the “contaminated environment.” Asst. Prof. Dr. Taradon provided the following recommendations for the prevention and control of anthrax:

For Livestock (Cattle and Buffaloes) 

If an animal dies suddenly, especially if dark-colored blood is observed oozing from natural body openings, or even if no bleeding is present but the cause of death is unclear, anthrax should be considered a possible cause.

Do not move, butcher, or cut open the carcass under any circumstances. Opening the carcass exposes the bacteria within the animal’s body to air, triggering the formation of spores. These spores can contaminate the environment and remain viable for a long time. Care should also be taken to prevent other animals, such as dogs and cats, from scavenging the carcass.

Immediately notify livestock authorities so that they can investigate and determine the cause of death.

Dispose of the carcass properly, using one of the following methods:

1. Burial: The carcass should be buried at a depth of approximately two meters, with quicklime spread over it to destroy the pathogen before covering it with soil. 

2. Incineration: Burning the carcass is also an effective disposal method, but it should be carried out in a properly enclosed system to prevent the spread of infectious agents.

Manage contaminated areas appropriately by spreading disinfecting chemicals such as formalin or highly concentrated sodium hydroxide to destroy the pathogen and reduce the likelihood of the pathogen remaining in the environment.

For the Public 

Avoid direct contact with animals or animal carcasses. Wear gloves when handling carcasses and wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with animal remains.

Avoid consuming raw meat, especially meat from animals that have died under unusual or unexplained circumstances. Dishes made with raw meat, such as larb or koi, carry a high risk of anthrax infection. Consume meat that is cooked at a temperature of at least 75°C (167°F). Although cooking temperatures may not destroy anthrax spores, they can kill the vegetative bacteria and help reduce the risk of infection.

Individuals working in textile factories that process animal wool, hair, or hides should wear protective clothing and face masks to help prevent exposure to anthrax through inhalation.

Textile factories that handle animal wool, hair, or hides should ensure adequate ventilation. If the materials originate from areas experiencing anthrax outbreaks, they should be properly disinfected before use to reduce the risk of exposure to anthrax spores that may be present on contaminated animal products.

Although anthrax is not a disease commonly encountered in everyday life, it remains a serious zoonotic disease, particularly when the infection is acquired through the respiratory tract. Any unusual or unexplained animal deaths should be reported to livestock authorities immediately. People should also remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of the disease, avoid high-risk behaviors, and follow proper hygiene practices. These measures not only help prevent anthrax but also reduce the risk of other infectious diseases.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/413172/

Every Day CO₂ Challenge Card Game

At a time when everyone talks about Net Zero and Carbon Neutrality, many still don’t understand what a “Carbon Footprint” is. Varoon Varanyanond, Industrial Partnership Advisor to the Center of Excellence on Petrochemical and Materials Technology (PETROMAT), Chulalongkorn University, chose not to lecture but instead invited people to play the fun card game, Every Day CO₂ Challenge, to understand the meaning of these terms for themselves.

When lectures don’t work, games are the answer.

The story of this game originated with the MA-RE DESIGN project, funded by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), an agency under the German Ministry of Environment, with the main objective of reducing the amount of unmanaged plastic waste flowing into the sea.

Varoon Varanyanond, Industrial Partnership Advisor to the Center of Excellence on

Petrochemical and Materials Technology (PETROMAT), Chulalongkorn University

As an expert in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Varoon participated in this project as an Eco Design consultant, focusing on product design that considers impacts from upstream to downstream. However, he discovered during his work that the understanding of LCA in Thailand was still limited. Although this principle is used as an international standard worldwide,

“When I was a speaker at various forums and projects, it became increasingly clear that this concept was difficult for the average person to understand. Traditional lectures were no longer sufficient. ” Varoon recounts the story that sparked the Every Day CO₂ Challenge card game.

What is LCA, and why is it important?

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an international methodology used to measure the environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle, from beginning to end. The LCA methodology is accepted worldwide.

The 5 Stages of the Product Life Cycle (LCA)

Stage 1 — Acquisition of Raw Materials: Where do the materials come from, and how are they produced?

Stage 2 — Production: How are raw materials transformed into finished products?

Stage 3 — Transportation: How are products delivered from the factory to stores and consumers?

Stage 4 — Usage: How are products used, and for how long?

Stage 5 — Disposal: How are products disposed of, recycled, or otherwise managed at their end-of-life stage?

The problem is that most people focus only on a product’s use and disposal, overlooking the many processes a water bottle or mobile phone undergoes before reaching our hands, as well as the amount of greenhouse gases emitted at each stage.

Why a “Card Game”?

Varoon himself has loved playing games since childhood, both computer games and card games. He believes that if complex content is incorporated into a game, people can have fun while learning. He spent a long time searching for a game that could teach people about LCA and Carbon Footprint, but when he couldn’t find one that met his needs, he decided to create his own.

A card game was chosen because it has several features that meet his needs: it creates interaction between players, encouraging discussion and exchange; it can be played in about 20-30 minutes, suitable for short training sessions; and most importantly, card games are fun and exciting, a timeless appeal for both children and adults.

The game is designed for a wide range of players, from elementary school students to teachers and members of the general public interested in the topic. It supports 3-8 players (6-8 players for maximum fun). Each player receives 5 cards, each card representing a stage of LCA: Raw Materials, Production, Transportation, Usage, and Disposal.

The points on each card represent the amount of greenhouse gas (CO₂) emissions generated at each stage. The lower the score, the lower the emissions and the better the outcome for the environment. Players aim to collect cards with the lowest total score.

The game is divided into 3 main rounds. In the first round, players look at their cards and assess their scores. In the second round, players begin discarding and swapping cards while explaining why they discarded them. The game becomes even more exciting with the addition of Action Cards—special blue cards that allow players to swap cards with one another, introducing an element of surprise, bluffing, and strategic decision-making. The player with the lowest total score at the end of all rounds wins.

What makes this game unique is the role of the “Game Master,” who asks players questions during card discarding. “Why is this card discarded?” “Why is the score high?” or “Why is air transport more expensive than sea transport?” When players are fully engaged in the game, asking questions can help deepen their understanding and reinforce key concepts.

The scores on each card are based on data from internationally recognized environmental impact assessment databases and have been adapted for the card game purpose. For example:

  • In the manufacturing process:

Virgin aluminum has a high score, but recycled aluminum has a much lower score.

Using solar power in the manufacturing process results in a lower score than heat treatment.

  • In the transportation stage:

Bicycles have a lower carbon footprint than cars.

Cars have a lower carbon footprint than air transport.

  • In the disposal process:

Single-use goods have a high score.

Recyclable or repairable goods have a lower score.

Most importantly, these numbers are for learning and comparison purposes only, not for academic research. However, comparing “whether this card is higher or lower” still reflects the reality of the LCA cycle.

From Simple Paper Cards to the First 50 Sets of Recycled Plastic Cards

The game began as a set of simple printed paper cards. After the Thai Packaging Design Association (ThaiPDA) recognized its potential and supported its development, the project secured private-sector support through GIZ. This led to the production of 50 beautifully designed bilingual (Thai-English) sets made from recycled plastic.

The game was subsequently tested with a wide range of participants, including elementary and high school students, university students, faculty and staff from various institutions, seminar participants, and members of the public from the business sector. It received positive feedback from all groups.

Most interestingly, many players began asking questions during the game, such as “Why does virgin aluminum have a higher score than recycled aluminum?” or “Why do single-use items have such high scores?” This is the ultimate goal of the game: not just to memorize, but to encourage questioning.

Why a game in an era where AI can answer everything better than a human teacher?

One of the most interesting questions in this era is, when AI can explain complex topics better than experts, is traditional teaching still necessary? Varoon clearly answered that what AI is unable to replace is “the fun that comes from actually sitting together.”

“AI is far superior to us in terms of content now. They have all the information and can explain things in more detail than I can. Therefore, we have to adapt that content and transform the teaching format to make it fun, concise, and not overly complex,” Varoon explained.

The game incorporates key gamification elements, including competition, rewards, interaction, and the unpredictability introduced by Action Cards, which can change the outcome at any moment. Active learning is woven throughout the game, requiring players to explain their decisions and engage in discussion prompted by the game leader. The goal is to achieve a “just-right” balance between knowledge and enjoyment—not so much content that it feels like a lesson, but not so little that learning is lost.

Future Game Development

When asked about future plans, Varoon clearly stated that they would not develop an online game because it would lose the interaction between players, which is the heart of learning. “The fun of sitting together, laughing together, and bluffing each other face to face cannot be replaced by any screen.”

What they are currently developing is a new game with the same concept, but aimed at the organizational level rather than the product level, to help personnel within organizations understand environmental impacts in a broader dimension. Currently, they are refining the format to make it fun and not overly complex.

The Power of the New Generation: Learning, Awareness, Action

He left three messages for the new generation:

Raise awareness: Acknowledge that the environmental problems created by previous generations will inevitably affect you. Don’t lose hope, but use that energy to push those in power today to make changes.

Learn deeply: In an age of abundant information from AI and the internet, it is important to distinguish between topics that require a broad understanding and those that warrant deeper investigation, while also identifying the root causes of complex issues.

Change behavior: When buying things, don’t just look at whether they are “pretty” or “cheap,” but think about “what it’s made of, how it’s transported, and how the waste will be disposed of after use.” Looking at the big picture across all five steps is the first step towards an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Varoon concluded by saying, “Don’t give up, and don’t wait for change to happen on your own. The strength of the younger generation lies in inspiring others, parents, bosses, or community leaders, to believe that small actions can make a difference and that meaningful change is possible when we act together. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/415033/

Chula & National Sun Yat-Sen University

Chulalongkorn University, through its Office of Art and Culture Management and Center for Social Engagement, has signed an academic cooperation agreement with National Sun Yat-Sen University. The partnership aims to develop students in the areas of arts, culture, and social engagement through experiential learning activities involving students from both institutions, which will take turns hosting the programs.

This initiative supports the university’s International Growth and Impactful Growth strategies under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, with the principle of “Holistic Growth with Students at the Center.” It also aligns with the CHULA Social Engagement strategy led by Associate Prof. Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University.

The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at National Sun Yat-Sen University. The agreement was signed by Assistant Professor Dr. Sukanya Sompaiboon, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University, and Professor Chih-Wen Kuo, Senior Vice President of National Sun Yat-Sen University. Witnesses included Assistant Professor Dr. Vitchatalum Laovanich, Assistant President for Arts and Culture Promotion; Assistant Professor Dr. Thanasin Chutintaranond, Assistant President for Social Engagement; and Mr. Kunchit Jitratan, Director of the Office of Art and Culture Management.

In addition, faculty members and students from the Department of Speech Communication and Performing Arts, Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University, led by Associate Professor Dr. Preeda Akarachantachote, Dean of the Faculty of Communication Arts, and Professor Dr. Prapassorn Chansathitporn, Head of the Department, participated in exchange activities and performance training with students from National Sun Yat-sen University.

Together, they co-created a traditional Thai Likay performance titled “Thai-Tai Isan Muan Jai Show.” The production formed part of Chulalongkorn students’ efforts to promote Thai arts and culture internationally and received an enthusiastic response from audiences.

The project represents another milestone in advancing Thai arts and culture through innovative international collaboration. Supported by a matching-fund partnership between Chulalongkorn’s Office of Art and Culture Management and various university faculties, it also marks an important step in bringing Thai performing arts to the global higher-education community.

Read more: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/415022/

Chula & Tsinghua SIGS Strengthen Partnership

Chulalongkorn University and Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (Tsinghua SIGS) have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding academic and research collaboration, following a high-level meeting between leaders of the two institutions in Shenzhen, China, on June 9, 2026.

A delegation from Chulalongkorn University, led by Vice President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Manoj Lohatepanont, visited Tsinghua SIGS to discuss strengthening existing partnerships, promoting student and faculty exchanges, and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in research and innovation. Associate Dean Fu Haohuan welcomed the delegation and underscored the value of the long-standing relationship between the two universities.

Both institutions share a commitment to developing global talent, advancing interdisciplinary research, and contributing to regional development. Building on these shared priorities, Chulalongkorn University and Tsinghua SIGS plan to deepen collaboration through joint research initiatives, academic exchanges, and other strategic programs designed to enhance international engagement and generate regional impact.

The visit marks another step forward in strengthening educational ties between Thailand and China while creating new opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members from both institutions.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/413623/

Thammasat and C.V. Raman Global University

C.V. Raman Global University and Thammasat Hold Follow-up Discussion to Explore Further Collaboration

On 28 May 2026, Dr. Usanee Patapsikij Lertrattananon, Assistant to the Rector for International Affairs, hosted a followup meeting with a delegation from C.V. Raman Global University (CGU), India at the Thammasat Rangsit Center.

The CGU delegation included Prof. Dr. Sasmita Mishra, Dean of International Education (Department of Business Management), and Asst. Prof. Dr. Madhusudan Maiti from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. They were welcomed by Assistants to the Dean from the Faculty of Science and Technology and Thammasat School of Engineering. The meeting followed an initial discussion held at Thammasat Tha Prachan, which CGU had attended alongside the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).

During the meeting, the CGU delegation presented a comprehensive overview of the universitys academic strengths and areas of specialization, particularly in engineering and technology. They highlighted CGUs accreditations and recognitions from the Indian government, including the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). The delegation also highlighted CGU’s strong partnerships with the industrial sector, which are designed to equip students with practical, handson experience outside the classroom.

To build further collaboration, CGU expressed an interest in exploring potential partnerships in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), satelliterelated projects, and semiconductor technologies. While Thammasat noted that these areas are not currently offered as dedicated academic programs, the university expressed its strong willingness to explore cooperation in related and complementary fields.

Potential areas of collaboration identified during the meeting included Sustainable Development Technology, Environmental Science, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, and Computer Science training programs. In particular, the Faculty of Science and Technology highlighted opportunities for collaboration in training programs focused on drone technology and semiconductors. Meanwhile, the Thammasat School of Engineering expressed interest in pursuing student exchanges, joint research, and virtual seminars.

Additionally, Dr. Usanee noted that Thammasat’s College of Innovation is well positioned to collaborate with CGUs Hotel and Hospitality Administration program, opening further avenues for academic and institutional cooperation

Chula Hosts Chula Dairy Conference & Expo

Today, more than 15,000 dairy farming households in Thailand are facing mounting challenges on multiple fronts. Rising production costs, climate change, and heat stress are directly affecting both the quantity and quality of milk production. At the same time, environmental pressures related to greenhouse gas emissions are increasing. Trade liberalization, which allows duty-free imports of milk powder, has further reduced the competitiveness of domestically produced raw milk, contributing to oversupply in the local market and placing many dairy farmers at a critical crossroads for survival.

To address these challenges, the Agricultural Technology and Innovation Center of Chulalongkorn University (AIC Chula Saraburi), in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, organized the Chula Dairy Conference & Expo 2026 on June 11–12, 2026, at Saraburi Building 4, the Center for Social Engagement, Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province. Held under the theme “Transforming the Thai Dairy Industry Toward Sustainability,” the event served as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, develop solutions to support dairy farmers, and elevate farm standards to meet international environmental benchmarks. The conference brought together participants across the dairy value chain, from farmers and cooperatives to private sector partners. The opening ceremony was presided over by Associate Professor Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University.

The conference featured a wide range of activities, including the “Dairy Crisis Solutions forum,” which explored data-driven approaches to overcoming industry challenges. Participants also examined success stories from model farms and cooperatives, strategies for managing climate change and heat stress in dairy cattle, and solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A brainstorming session titled “Chula Dairy Transformation Platform” focused on shaping the future direction of Thailand’s dairy sector. Additional highlights included the Main Conference & Expo showcasing innovations for dairy farming in tropical climates, the AIC Saraburi Marketplace for business networking and agricultural innovation exhibits, and the Youth & TikTok Zone, featuring a short-video competition promoting milk consumption under the campaign theme “Real Cow’s Milk: Good for Every Age.”

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak Ajariyakhajorn, Director of the Agricultural Technology and Innovation Center and Chairman of the conference, Thailand currently produces only about 50% of its domestic milk demand. However, the industry continues to face milk oversupply due to the influx of lower-cost imported milk powder. As a result, Thai dairy farmers are disadvantaged in both production costs and product quality. He emphasized that the key to survival lies in shifting from volume-based production to quality-focused dairy farming while creating value-added products such as cheese, butter, and soft-serve ice cream to generate stable and sustainable income streams.

He further noted that Chulalongkorn University has established a technology transfer and research center in Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province, covering more than 4,000 rai. The center operates a demonstration dairy farm that showcases how farmers can achieve milk yields of 20 liters per cow per day while maintaining competitive production costs. The university has also expanded its outreach through the Chula Dairy School, a network involving 30–50 dairy farms, and the Chula Freshmilk platform, which integrates dairy farms with processing facilities. These initiatives aim to help Thai dairy farmers successfully enter and compete in premium dairy markets. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/413633/

Thammasat, 3 Faculties Earn 2026 EdPEx300

Thammasat University and three faculties achieved the 2026 EdPEx300 excellence rating at 300 points.

Thammasat University (TU) and its internal agencies, which include the Faculty of Dentistry, the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, and the Faculty of Medicine, have undergone the evaluation of educational quality towards excellence at the EdPEx300 level for the year 2026. This project is conducted by the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (OPS-MHESI) to promote and support higher education institutions and internal agencies in enhancing organizational management and educational quality in accordance with international standards.

Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, stated that the results of the EdPEx300 assessment received by Thammasat University do not measure success in just one aspect, but rather evaluate the organization’s management capabilities in a systematic manner, driven concurrently across all sectors in a tangible way. This includes leadership, strategic planning, human resource management, and overall operational outcomes. The achievements that encompass both institutional and faculty levels serve as confirmation that Thammasat has grown as a Comprehensive University with excellence across all fields of study.

Prof. Dr. Supasawad noted that this EdPEx300 achievement is a starting point for further development, which the university will use to continuously improve educational quality, research, and organizational management.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Samroeng Inklam, Dean of Dentistry Faculty, Thammasat University, stated that the Faculty of Dentistry employs a management approach towards excellence based on the EdPEx criteria to continuously enhance the quality of educational management. The results of the EdPEx 300 assessment in the year 2026 reflect that the organization has increasingly systematic operational processes. Personnel at all levels are aware of their roles and responsibilities and are committed to collaborating in order to improve the unit’s outcomes. The focus is on responding to the needs of stakeholders and, importantly, on sustainable organizational development. Achieving the EdPEx 300 criteria instills confidence among personnel in advancing the organization sustainably amid constantly changing dynamic environments.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seksun Samosornsuk, Dean of Allied Health Sciences Faculty, stated that the EdPEx300 reflects the achievements and developmental direction of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at Thammasat University towards a quality management system in a concrete manner. It demonstrates that the faculty has a systematic operational process, with clear approaches, objectives, and performance indicators that lead to actual implementation and evaluation for continuous improvement. This encompasses curriculum development, student support, research, academic services, management and development of personnel, as well as the effective management of organizational resources.

At the same time, personnel at all levels share an understanding of the vision, mission, and strategic plan, enabling the organization to progress in a unified direction with stability, even during periods of leadership transition. This reflects the strength of the system rather than reliance on individuals.

Importantly, EdPEx300 also reflects the focus on “organizational outcomes” in terms of educational quality, stakeholder satisfaction, operational efficiency, and the ability to achieve strategic goals, which are essential foundations for the organization’s development towards excellence and sustainability in the future.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Auchara Tangsathapornpong, M.D., Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Thammasat University, the achievement of the EdPEx300 standard by the Faculty of Medicine reflects a systematic organizational development focused on effectiveness, process enhancement, and the creation of valuable outcomes to meet the needs of learners, service recipients, and society, as well as the expertise of the personnel involved.

By aligning vision, strategy, and performance monitoring through EdPEx, the Faculty of Medicine drives continuous organizational development, produces adaptable leaders, and advances practical research to serve the public as a “Faculty of Medicine for the People.”

The Rector thanked the university community for this collective achievement, which marks Thammasat as a regional leader. The EdPEx300 rating confirms the university’s high standard of systematic management, strategic planning, and focus on delivering quality outcomes for stakeholders.

Chula & Harvard Club of Thailand Host Forum

The Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Harvard Club of Thailand, organized a special forum titled “TRUMPENOMICS: Navigating Global Economic Uncertainty in a Changing World.” The event was presided over by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Associate Professor Dr. Prakorn Siriprakob, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, delivered the welcome remarks. The event took place on May 27, 2026, at the Smart Classroom, 7th Floor, Kasem Uthayanin Building, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University.

The forum was honored to host Prof. Jay Rosengard, Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy and Director of the Harvard University Thai Studies Program at Harvard Kennedy School, who delivered a special lecture and shared perspectives on U.S. economic policy under the concept of “Trumpenomics,” referring to the economic approaches and policies of Donald Trump, President of the United States, amid current global economic challenges and uncertainties.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411987/

Chula Students Win National Championship

The Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, extends its congratulations to Ms. Donjai Watcharapolmek, Ms. Lillarawat Kitjavas, Mr. Jin Kulsathitporn, and Mr. Wintakorn Kampira, veterinary students of Chulalongkorn University, for winning first prize in the 4th Young Ocean for Life Innovation Challenge under the 10th year of the PTTEP Teenergy project.

The team received the award for their project, “Turtle Wave Energy Generator,” under the theme “Preserve,” which had been selected from applicants nationwide to advance to the final round of 15 teams before ultimately winning first place. The award was granted in recognition of their presentation of ideas and innovations aimed at promoting sustainable marine resource conservation. The competition and award ceremony were held at Suralai Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAM.

The “Turtle Wave Generator” was developed in response to a key challenge in sea turtle hatchery and nursery ponds, which are typically characterized by still water or limited water circulation. This contrasts sharply with the natural marine environment, where waves and currents are constantly in motion. As a result, hatchling and juvenile turtles raised in artificial ponds may lack natural environmental stimuli, become less active, experience stress, or exhibit undesirable behaviors such as aggressive biting among individuals. Such behaviors can lead to injuries and increase the risk of infection.

To address this issue, the development team began by consulting with veterinarians and sea turtle caretakers to better understand the underlying causes and potential solutions. Experimental trials were then conducted with juvenile green turtles aged approximately six to seven months by introducing controlled water currents into nursery ponds. Preliminary findings revealed that ponds equipped with water-current systems experienced a reduction in biting behavior of more than 72 percent compared with ponds without water circulation. These results highlighted the potential of creating a more naturalistic environment to enhance animal welfare.

Building on these findings, the team developed the “Turtle Wave Generator,” an innovative water-current generation device that can be retrofitted into existing nursery ponds without the need for major reconstruction. The system features a Flow Bar current-generation mechanism, animal safety protection components, an adjustable mounting system compatible with various pond designs, and an application-based control platform that enables caretakers to monitor and manage multiple ponds simultaneously in real time.

A key strength of the innovation lies in its application of Environmental Enrichment principles to sea turtle husbandry. The device allows users to adjust both the intensity and pattern of water currents according to the turtles’ developmental stages. By simulating natural aquatic conditions, it encourages normal swimming behavior, reduces stress, and helps prepare juvenile turtles for successful release back into the wild.

Looking ahead, the development team plans to expand the application of this technology to the care and rehabilitation of other rare and vulnerable marine animals, including dugongs, dolphins, and various marine species undergoing recovery in conservation centers and aquariums. The team envisions the technology as a valuable tool for improving the welfare of marine animals in managed environments, enhancing rehabilitation outcomes, and supporting their sustainable return to natural habitats.

This achievement reflects the potential of Chulalongkorn University students to apply academic knowledge alongside creativity and teamwork to develop innovations that benefit society and the environment while making tangible contributions to the sustainable conservation of Thailand’s marine resources.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411923/

Thammasat, Pattaya Drive City Development

Thammasat University and Pattaya City signed an MOU to advance human, academic, and social development for future national and urban growth.

Thammasat University collaborates with Pattaya City by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic cooperation to promote the development of education, research, and the enhancement of the capabilities of personnel and students. This partnership aims to drive the development of a creative city in the fields of medicine, nursing, and public health, as well as to support the concrete development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The signing took place on May 14, 2026, at the Brighton Grand Hotel Pattaya, Chonburi Province.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Danupun Visuwan, Vice Rector for Planning and University Council Affairs, representing the Thammasat University Rector, and Mr. Poramet Ngampichet , Mayor of Pattaya City, jointly signed the agreement, with executives from both organizations present as witnesses. The collaboration aims to exchange knowledge, develop research and innovation, as well as promote internships, cooperative education, and the development of students’ professional skills, in order to enhance the quality of personnel in alignment with the future needs of the country.

In addition, both parties aim to collaboratively develop academic service activities for society, support the organization of conferences and academic events at both national and international levels, as well as create a model for Creative Cities that enhances the quality of life and well-being of the local population. This collaboration marks another significant step for Thammasat University in leveraging knowledge and academic potential to support sustainable local development and the country’s economy.