Tag: Thailand

Bangkok – January 26, 2025 – Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the public and private sectors, academia, and international experts, hosts the forum “Water Resilience: Urban Adaptation under Climate Volatility” at the Engineering Auditorium, Chulalongkorn University. 

The forum seeks to present pathways for Thailand’s cities to survive and adapt, proposing a five-dimensional plan to elevate the country’s capacity to manage water crises through a systematic preventive approach. This approach emphasizes the use of a single, unified national data set; planning and command based on river basin systems rather than ministerial or provincial boundaries; and the integration of budgets, policies, and responsibilities. 

At the same time, the “Water Resilience” Center has been officially established as a central mechanism to coordinate knowledge, research, data, and public communication, with the aim of protecting cities and safeguarding the future of the next generation. 

Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, delivered the opening remarks, stating that water-related disasters are not merely about damage to homes or property but about the destruction of entire lives—including educational opportunities, mental health, family stability, and social security—while exacerbating inequality. 

If flooding were to occur in Bangkok’s inner economic zones, the country’s economic hub, the damage could reach 10 million baht per minute, alongside immeasurable social consequences. 

“Chulalongkorn University possesses strong interdisciplinary expertise across engineering, architecture, science, political science, law, economics, social sciences, communication, and more. The university also has the capacity to connect networks among educational institutions, government agencies, the private sector, communities, and international partners. This collective strength underpins the establishment of the ‘Water Resilience’ Center as a leading platform for systematic and sustainable water management solutions.” 

According to Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, the establishment of the “Water Resilience” Center goes beyond an academic role—it reflects the responsibility of higher education institutions to society. 

The Center will serve as a central mechanism translating knowledge into action by communicating water-risk information in an accessible way, coordinating multi-sector collaboration, and integrating global expertise with lessons learned from real-world contexts in Thailand. 

Associate Professor Dr. Witaya Wannasuphoprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, explained that Thailand is facing increasingly severe climate patterns, driven by upstream floodwaters, sea-level rise, extreme rainfall, and prolonged rainfall events. 

As much as 80% of annual rainfall can now fall within a single area in just one week, creating unprecedented risks of flash flooding. The impacts are wide-ranging, affecting both economic stability and quality of life. The 2011 Great Flood caused damages totaling 1.43 trillion-baht, equivalent to 70% of the national budget that year, with over 90% of losses borne by the private sector, including direct damages and lost business opportunities. 

The “Water Resilience” Center is tasked with communicating and coordinating proactive water-risk prevention based on scientific data, strengthening collaboration across all sectors without duplicating or replacing government functions. Its goal is to reduce losses from water-related crises and enhance long-term urban resilience. 

Five Dimensions Toward a “Resilient Metropolis (and Nation)” 

Dr. Witaya proposes a five-dimensional framework to manage long-term water risks through integrated infrastructure, technology, innovation, and social participation: 

Dimension 1: Reinforced Engineering Infrastructure (Reinforced) 

Strengthening existing infrastructure—including drainage tunnels, river embankments, and pumping stations—by integrating advanced forecasting models, artificial intelligence (AI), real-time data, and digital systems. This enables accurate early prediction and effective preparedness to cope with extreme rainfall events under increasingly volatile climate conditions. 

Dimension 2: Integrated River Basin Management (Integrated) 

Expanding flood and drought mitigation from the urban scale to the river basin level through the application of hydrological and hydraulic modeling, big data analytics, AI, and satellite technologies. This approach enables early assessment of both excess water volumes and water scarcity risks, supporting proactive water management before flows reach Bangkok. In particular, the Lower Chao Phraya River Basin Flood Mitigation Plan is emphasized to ensure that urban safety does not rely solely on measures within city boundaries. 

Dimension 3: Global Innovation and Lessons Learned (Inspired) 

Learning from international best practices, such as the Netherlands’ coastal defense systems, Japan’s massive underground drainage tunnels, and sponge city concepts from China and Singapore, while integrating local wisdom and adapting solutions to Thailand’s context. 

Dimension 4: Adaptive Living with Water (Adaptive) 

Shifting from “fighting water” to “living with water” through blue-green infrastructure, flexible urban planning, and strengthening public climate literacy. 

Dimension 5: Evidence-Based Water Governance and Decision-Making (Evidence-based) 

Using research and spatial data to inform policymaking, develop context-specific innovations that create economic opportunities, and foster collaboration among government, the private sector, and communities—ensuring targeted and sustainable risk prevention. 

In addition, Chulalongkorn University has partnered with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, to develop an integrated, technology-driven water management project that enhances economic value alongside environmental conservation. The initiative is being piloted in four provinces representing different segments of the river basin: 

• Nan (Upstream): Conserving watershed forests and reducing disaster risks to mitigate economic impacts. 
• Chainat: Promoting behavioral change among farmers to increase income while reducing vulnerability to floods and droughts. 
• Nakhon Pathom: Improving water quality management to enhance the province’s economic value. 
• Bangkok: Developing accurate and rapid rainfall monitoring and forecasting systems to strengthen urban safety. 

Dr. Sumet Tantivejkul, Chairman of the Chaipattana Foundation under Royal Patronage, emphasized that His Majesty King Rama IX consistently stressed that water problems cannot be solved by a single project. Instead, the entire system—from upstream to midstream to downstream—must be understood and managed through continuous long-term planning. 

“Water management is a matter of national security, not the responsibility of any single ministry. Thailand must invest more in prevention than in post-disaster repair.” 

Dr. Sumet proposed an integrated water management framework for policymakers and future governments, covering short-, medium-, and long-term horizons. He stressed the need to dismantle silo-based operations and called for structural reform in water governance by: 

• Using a single, unified national data set 
• Planning and commanding based on river basins, not bureaucratic or provincial boundaries 
• Integrating budgets, policies, and accountability 

He noted that the “Water Resilience” Center would play a critical proactive intermediary role—connecting knowledge, research, spatial data, and public communication with government decision-making—ensuring that national water prevention efforts deliver real, practical outcomes rather than ending at forums or academic reports. 

The “Water Resilience” forum was also honored by the participation of Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok; Ms. Arocha Nanthamontri, Governor of Nakhon Pathom Province; and international experts from the Netherlands, Japan, and MIT, who shared lessons and experiences to jointly drive Thailand’s preparedness for water crises in a concrete and sustainable manner. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/284404/

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/284404/

Chulalongkorn University is proud to congratulate students of the Faculty of Veterinary Science’s “Blood Bond” group for winning the First Runner-Up Award in the Outstanding Campaign Contest of the Temjai Project, Year 3, a blood donation advocacy initiative for higher-education students.

Organized by the National Blood Centre, Thai Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Dang Por Sorn Foundation and business sector networks, the project aims to inspire Thai youth—especially university students—to recognize the importance of being “givers” through participating in the design of advocacy campaigns. The project aims to develop creative thinking, planning, and teamwork skills, ultimately increasing blood donations to 10 million units.

The contest was held on December 17, 2025, at the Prof. Dr. Sudjai Laosunthorn Conference Room, Library Building, Srinakharinwirot University (Prasarnmit Campus), and the award ceremony took place on December 19, 2025, at the Grand Ballroom, Sheraton Sukhumvit Hotel.

 

Chulalongkorn University is proud to congratulate students of the Faculty of Veterinary Science’s “Blood Bond” group for winning the First Runner-Up Award in the Outstanding Campaign Contest of the Temjai Project, Year 3, a blood donation advocacy initiative for higher-education students.

Organized by the National Blood Centre, Thai Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Dang Por Sorn Foundation and business sector networks, the project aims to inspire Thai youth—especially university students—to recognize the importance of being “givers” through participating in the design of advocacy campaigns. The project aims to develop creative thinking, planning, and teamwork skills, ultimately increasing blood donations to 10 million units.

The contest was held on December 17, 2025, at the Prof. Dr. Sudjai Laosunthorn Conference Room, Library Building, Srinakharinwirot University (Prasarnmit Campus), and the award ceremony took place on December 19, 2025, at the Grand Ballroom, Sheraton Sukhumvit Hotel.

This achievement reflects the creativity, public-minded spirit, and commitment of Chulalongkorn University veterinary students in helping to pass on the value of “giving” for the sustainable benefit of society.

Members of the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University—Blood Bond Group are

Ms. Nattrinee Tattanapreechachai
Ms. Chutikarn Wirunharat
Ms. Nattida Monta
Ms. Pichamanch Panphuthon
Ms. Nantamonphon Leeprakorn (Second-year student)
Ms. Pichamanch Siriwong (First-year student)

The project advisor was Prof. Dr. Paisan Tienthai, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University. Capt. Dr. Rutaitip Upariputti, from Pet Fit Firm, a socially minded entrepreneur, served as a planning consultant and provided resource support for the project.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281008/

This achievement reflects the creativity, public-minded spirit, and commitment of Chulalongkorn University veterinary students in helping to pass on the value of “giving” for the sustainable benefit of society.

The project advisor was Prof. Dr. Paisan Tienthai, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University. Capt. Dr. Rutaitip Upariputti, from Pet Fit Firm, a socially minded entrepreneur, served as a planning consultant and provided resource support for the project.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/281008/

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China—also known as the “Golden 50 Years of Thai–Chinese Friendship,” during which both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties and cultural exchange—the China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC), under the supervision of the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China, in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University, organized the Thai–Chinese Youth Cultural Exchange Program titled “Youth Power: Creativity Without Borders.” The program was held from 14 to 16 January 2569 (2026) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. 

The opening ceremony took place on January 14, 2026, at Rooms 210–211 of the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The event commenced with the opening remarks from Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University; Ms. Li Mian, Director of the International Communication Center, China Intercontinental Communication Center, State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China; Mr. Yang Xiaolong, Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand; Mr. Sermkit Chaimongkol, Inspector General of the Ministry of Culture; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok. On this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Rittirong Jiwakanon, Director of the Thai Studies Institute, Chulalongkorn University, also participated in the opening of the exhibition “Youth Power: Creativity Without Borders,” which was a highlight of the event. 

Activities on January 14, 2026 included a roundtable discussion, a contemporary sculpture exhibition, and displays of artistic works rooted in the cultural wisdom of both countries. The event also saw participation from professionals in the fields of arts and culture, film, creative industries, and mass media, with the aim of promoting sustainable cultural cooperation. The program sought to foster the continuation and expansion of cultural innovation, leading to mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries, while creating an international platform for young people to build friendships, exchange inspiration, and grow together. 

The general public was welcome to visit the contemporary sculpture exhibition and view artistic works based on Thai and Chinese cultural wisdom free of charge from January 15 to 16, 2026, at Rooms 210–211, 2nd Floor, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/283525/

Chulalongkorn University, through the Center of Learning Network for the Region, or CLNR, and the Office of Academic Resources, in collaboration with the Military Energy Department, Defense Industry, and Military Energy Center, held a signing ceremony for an agreement for the co-production of Thai-language radio programs and social engagement initiatives on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the 7th-floor conference room of the Maha Thirathirat Memorial Building, Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University. 

The agreement was signed by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and Vice Admiral Pinan Dawkrajai, Director-General of the Military Energy Department, Defense Industry and Military Energy Center, and Director of the Military Energy Department Radio Station. Witnesses to the signing included Associate Professor Dr. Yuttana Chappannarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University; Associate Professor Dr. Amorn Petsom, Director of the Office of Academic Resources; Major General Khemchat Boonyachan, Head of the Military Energy Department Radio Station; and Colonel Chairung Boonyarat, Head of Program Production, Military Energy Department Radio Station.  

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat stated that this collaboration reflects the shared commitment and unity between the higher education sector and the defense sector in jointly creating “audio media that cultivates wisdom.” By utilizing radio broadcasting—through Chulalongkorn University’s radio station—as a powerful channel, the partnership aims to disseminate knowledge derived from research and the university’s social engagement missions via the Military Energy Department’s radio station. The initiative seeks to expand educational opportunities for children and youth, as well as career opportunities for the Thai public, in line with the Impactful Growth strategy, which emphasizes sustainable development across all levels of Thai society. 

This collaboration also marks the first time Chulalongkorn University has expanded its knowledge outreach to listeners in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, a strategic area under Chula’s Social Engagement framework. The two organizations have jointly produced and broadcast a variety of radio programs since October 1, 2025, representing an important milestone that underscores their shared commitment to creating intellectual value through radio broadcasting—a mass communication medium that continues to hold significant influence today. 

Vice Admiral Pinan Dawkrajai noted that the signing of this agreement represents a promising step in which an agency responsible for military energy security joins forces with Chulalongkorn University, a pillar of national intellectual leadership. The shared objective is to use radio as a tool for contributing positively to society. Beyond merely exchanging communication resources, the core focus is on jointly producing programs for social benefit by integrating the strengths of both organizations. The goal is to create content that not only provides knowledge or entertainment but also enhances quality of life, fosters accurate public understanding across various fields, supports social development, and serves as a credible voice for the public. 

This agreement aims to drive forward the Impactful Growth strategy of the President (Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat) and the CHULA Social Engagement strategy of the Vice President (Associate Professor Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat). The collaboration was initiated by the Assistant President for Social Engagement (Assistant Professor Dr. Thanasin Chutintaranond) and the Director of the Office of Academic Resources (Associate Professor Dr. Amorn Petsom). 

Under this collaboration, various programs produced by Chulalongkorn University Radio in partnership with the university’s faculties and units are broadcast via the Military Energy Department Radio Station, in addition to their regular broadcast on FM 101.5 MHz (Chula Radio). These programs include content for children and youth, news analysis, opinion exchanges on general news related to politics, economics, and technology, as well as knowledge dissemination and public relations for Chulalongkorn University’s social missions. 

Listeners can follow Chula Radio programs via the Military Energy Department Radio Station on: 

• FM Bangkok, 90.5 MHz: Saturdays and Sundays, 07:00–08:00 and 19:00–19:55 
• AM 711 kHz, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province: Sundays, 17:00–17:55 

Programs are also available online at curadio.chula.ac.th and through the Chula Radio+ mobile application. 

Chula Radio Programs Broadcast on the Military Energy Department Radio Station 

• ChulaKa-se 
• Yim Yaem Kaem Sai 
• Political Science to Society 
• Science Around the World 
• Exclusive TCAS 
• Heal Your Heart with Dr. Joy 
• Law in Perspective 
• Turning with the World 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/283534/

Chulalongkorn University is delighted to congratulate Mr. Kritin Kamonsin, a second-year student in the Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Political Science, who has been selected to receive the Outstanding Youth Award for Bringing Honor to the Nation for 2026. He received a certificate from Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Kuru Sapha Auditorium, Ministry of Education. 

Kritin said he felt extremely honored and proud to receive this award. It serves as an important encouragement, affirming that his dedication to social and community work has value and is recognized. It also motivates him to further develop himself to contribute even more to the country. 

Kritin is a responsible and active student with strong leadership qualities. He believes that being a good leader requires listening, learning, and continuously improving oneself in terms of thinking, discipline, and ethics in order to prepare for work that benefits the public and for personal development. 

In the past, Kritin has participated in numerous activities both within his faculty and across the university. These include serving on the team welcoming Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on National Mother’s Day 2025, working as treasurer in the Environmental and Sustainability Division of the Provincial Administrative Organization, and serving on committees of the Social Welfare Council of Thailand, among others. 

Moreover, Kritin has received many previous awards recognizing his abilities, such as the Outstanding Military Leadership Youth Award, being named an Honorary Air Cadet by the Air Force, and contributing significantly to the 2nd Army Ranger Unit, for which he received honorary unit insignia and an honorary commando proficiency badge from the 2nd Army Region. 

In addition to his exceptional extracurricular achievements, Kritin has also excelled academically, achieving the highest scores in general aptitude and specialized subjects among students in the 77th cohort of the Public Administration program. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/282676/