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Tag: Thailand

Thammasat University, University of Bristol explore collaboration

Posted on by Thammasat University

Executives from the University of Bristol, UK, visited the Office of International Affairs (OIA) at Thammasat University’s Tha Prachan campus. The delegation met with the OIA Director and the OIA Coordinator for Europe, where they were warmly introduced to Thammasat University’s academic and international engagement framework.

The visit aimed to explore potential collaborative opportunities between Thammasat and the University of Bristol across three primary areas. These include:

1. Educational Partnerships: Discussions centered around establishing structured academic programs such as the 3+1, 2+1, 1+1, 2+2, and 3+1+1 models, which allow students to split their studies between the two institutions for enhanced global exposure.

2. Student Mobility Programs: Both universities explored avenues for student exchanges within several prominent faculties at Thammasat, namely the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat Business School, and the College of Innovation. These programs would offer students enriched cross-cultural experiences and opportunities to study in diverse academic environments.

3. Academic Engagement: Potential collaboration was discussed around joint workshops, guest lectures, faculty exchanges, and co-research initiatives, aimed at fostering shared knowledge and innovation between the institutions.During the meeting, the University of Bristol expressed particular interest in Thammasat’s Summer Program. In response, the OIA shared insights into the program’s recent successes and its partnerships with universities in Japan and Australia. This visit represents a promising step toward deeper collaboration between Thammasat University and the University of Bristol.

Professor from Chulalongkorn University performs “Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra” in Moscow

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Professor Narongrit Dhamabutra, a National Artist in the field of Performing Arts (Western Music – Classical Composition) and faculty member of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Chulalongkorn University, recently performed the Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra at the Moscow International House of Music on January 23, 2025. The performance was presented with Theodore Kerkezos as the soloist on saxophone, accompanied by the Moscow Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Jeremy Walker. Approximately 1,700 people attended the concert.

On this occasion, Mr. Sasiwat Wongsinsawat, the Ambassador of Thailand to Moscow, along with the Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the Russian Federation and senior representatives from the Moscow government, delivered opening remarks. This piece has already been performed in several cities, including Bangkok and Athens.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/216210/

Thammasat and University of Bristol launch “Double Degree” programs in Political Science

Posted on by Thammasat University

The Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University has reached a collaborative agreement with the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom to initiate a joint ‘Double Degree’ programs comprising two curricula: (1) a program with the School of Sociology,
Politics and International Studies, which allows Master’s degree students enrolled in the MIR program at Thammasat University who have completed 18 credits to study for an additional year at the University of Bristol, thereby obtaining two Master’s degrees from both institutions; and (2) a program with the School for Policy Studies, which admits final-year undergraduate students from both the regular curriculum and the BIR program of the Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University, as well as Master’s degree students from the MIR program who have completed 18 credits, to further their studies at the University of Bristol to earn an MSc in Public Policy. For both programs, the University of Bristol offers a 10% tuition fee discount.

The University of Bristol is a leading educational institution in the United Kingdom, currently ranked 54th in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.

During the signing ceremony of this cooperation agreement, Associate Professor Dr. Puli Fuwongcharoen, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, and Associate Professor Dr. Jittipat Poonkham, Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs and International Relations, engaged in discussions with representatives from the University of Bristol, led by Jessica Carwardine, Deputy Head of Partnerships and Relations, along with Dr. Caryn Peiffer and Gabrielle Osborne, prior to the signing of the cooperation agreement. They also met with interested students to introduce the University of Bristol and the newly launched Double Degree programs.

Associate Professor Dr. Puli Fuwongcharoen, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at
Thammasat University, expressed that the Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University is striving to become a leading political science hub in Southeast Asia. Its recent partnership with the University of Bristol, establishing a Double Degree program, is part of a broader strategy to boost international collaboration. This includes research initiatives, staff exchanges, and joint academic activities, reflecting the Faculty’s commitment to achieving global recognition.

Associate Professor Dr. Jitipat Poonkham, Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs and International Relations, who oversees negotiations with the University of Bristol, stated that the Double Degree program with the University of Bristol aims to provide Thammasat political science students with enhanced learning opportunities, including access to world-class faculty and dual degrees. This initiative is key to strengthening the program’s international reputation and expanding students’ horizons. The collaboration was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the international and external relations team.

Chula President elected as the new Chairperson of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT), effective January 1, 2025, for a two-year term.

As the newly elected Chairperson of CUPT, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat has outlined strategic plans to unite university presidents across Thailand to strengthen the country’s education system. His initiatives aim to elevate Thai education standards to an international level and attract more international students, contributing to the overall benefit of the nation.

The Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT) was established as a collaborative effort among the presidents of state universities and higher education institutions in Thailand. Its objectives include coordinating inter-university cooperation to enhance educational quality, provide academic services, and oversee the centralized admission system for higher education institutions.

Chula President leads vision for an AI-driven future in education

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

On December 20, 2024, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, delivered a keynote speech at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation titled “Revolutionizing Learning: The AI-Powered Future of Education”. The event, organized by Chulalongkorn University’s Risk Management Center in collaboration with the National Higher Education Strategic Center and the Digital University Network, aimed at exchanging experiences and best practices as well as to deepen technological understanding and foster cooperation while promoting a risk-aware culture in universities. The goal is to prepare Thai universities to become leaders in AI innovation in the region.

In his speech, Professor Dr. Wilert emphasized that the AI-driven future of education presents both challenges and opportunities for higher education. With artificial intelligence (AI) and big data reshaping the landscape of knowledge, universities must go beyond simply transferring information to students. Instead, they must reimagine themselves as dynamic learning hubs focused on “creating learning experiences” that address the needs of the future. This transformation involves prioritizing experiential learning, interdisciplinary integration, and developing diverse, future-ready skills.

Key Insights from the Speech
1. Personalized Learning Pathways: Curiosity as a Starting Point

AI enables institutions to assess individual student potential with greater depth, paving the way for Personalized Learning Pathways. By tapping into each student’s curiosity and unique interests, universities can unlock hidden talents and foster meaningful growth. To achieve this, learning environments must encourage exploration, experimentation, and inquiry, creating experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings.

2. The New Role of Faculty: From Teachers to Intellectual Facilitators

Faculty members must shift their role from being mere dispensers of knowledge to Intellectual Facilitators. This involves inspiring critical thinking, posing challenging questions, and guiding students toward the practical application of their learning. By focusing on individual strengths and interests, educators can nurture deeper, more impactful learning.

3. Integrating Life Skills with Technology

In an AI-driven world, technical expertise in fields like AI and Big Data is essential—but not enough. Graduates must also possess critical Life Skills, such as analytical thinking, creativity, adaptability, problem-solving, and a strong ethical foundation. Universities have the responsibility to integrate these skills alongside technological education to prepare students for an unpredictable and rapidly evolving future.

4. The Evolving Value of Higher Education in the AI Era

While the relevance of degrees in today’s world is often debated, universities remain vital in shaping well-rounded individuals. By integrating diverse disciplines—science, technology, social sciences, and humanities—universities equip students to tackle the complex challenges of the modern world. These institutions serve as critical spaces for self-discovery, talent development, and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

Chulalongkorn University: Leading the AI Transformation

Transitioning into the AI era is more than adopting new technology—it’s about reimagining education. Chulalongkorn University is committed to creating an environment where students’ curiosity is sparked, their identities are explored, and their skills are honed to adapt to the digital age.

With the vision to become “Chulalongkorn: The University of AI,” the university seeks to develop graduates with diverse competencies, a strong ethical foundation, and the ability to lead themselves and society toward sustainable success.

“Curiosity and self-discovery are the cornerstones of lifelong learning. They form the bridge to a future where risks are transformed into opportunities for success.”

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/209112/

Thammasat University hosts event on regional transformation in Southeast Asia

Posted on by Thammasat University

The College of Interdisciplinary Studies at Thammasat University organized a workshop on the topic “Regional Economic Cooperation and Social Cultural Changes: The Future of Sino-Thai Connectivity” at Thammasat University, Lampang Campus. The event aimed to exchange knowledge and perspectives on significant related issues, featuring expert faculty members from various disciplines, including linguistics, art, culture, natural resource management and environmental studies, as well as international relations, who participated in this meeting.

Professor Dong Hongjie from Xi’an University, People’s Republic of China, the distinguished
speaker at this event, reported on the latest advancements of the “China Studies Program,” which is overseen by the Chinese Ministry of Education. This program focuses on fostering connections and economic cooperation between China and Thailand, significantly influencing the social and cultural transformations in both nations.

Furthermore, the participating professors exchanged perspectives from their fields of expertise, discussing opportunities as well as challenges regarding the anticipated collaboration between China and Thailand in the future.

Associate Professor Dr. Saifon Suindramedhi, Dean of the College of Interdisciplinary
Studies at Thammasat University, emphasized that this meeting is part of the activities aimed at promoting international academic collaboration, in celebration of the 90th anniversary of Thammasat University and the 25th anniversary of the College of Interdisciplinary Studies.

This in-depth dialogue serves to strengthen the relationships among interdisciplinary expert
faculty members, while also establishing a crucial foundation for the development of knowledge and international academic collaboration in the future. The College will steadfastly continue to lead in research and innovation within fields that consistently and robustly integrate diverse disciplines. 

Chulalongkorn University and Philippine Embassy come together for academic and cultural collaboration

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University and the Philippine Embassy in Thailand are charting a new course for international collaboration following a high-level courtesy visit earlier today.

Led by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, the university delegation met with Her Excellency Mrs. Millicent Cruz-Paredes, Ambassador Extraordinary to Thailand, and her diplomatic team. Discussions centered on groundbreaking initiatives in academic partnerships, cultural exchange, and research collaboration.

Highlighting the shared vision, Prof. Wilert stated, “This partnership symbolizes a bridge between our nations, offering transformative opportunities for students, researchers, and cultural understanding.”

Key takeaways from the meeting included:

  • Student Exchange Programs: Enhanced opportunities for cross-cultural learning.
    Joint Research Projects: Focused on global challenges like sustainability, agriculture and public health.
  • Cultural Initiatives: Language immersion programs and guest lectures to deepen mutual understanding.

Both parties underscored the importance of leveraging academic diplomacy to address global challenges while enriching cultural and educational ties.

This partnership marks a pivotal step in fostering stronger diplomatic and educational bridges between Thailand and the Philippines, promising tangible benefits for both societies.

Chulalongkorn University presents ‘Mud Sang’ documentary to globally revive the spirit of Muay Thai

Posted on by Editorial Team

Muay Thai, Thailand’s iconic martial art, has been gaining international recognition and generating significant income as a form of “soft power.” Foreign tourists are flocking to boxing stadiums and training camps to experience this cultural gem. However, the globalization of Muay Thai has introduced standardized rules and regulations that may make traditional techniques and unique identities disappear.

Professor Dr. Sunait Chutintaranond, Director of the Center for Multicultural Studies and Social Innovation, Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University (MSSIC), warns that Muay Thai’s deep-rooted cultural essence may be lost if not carefully preserved. To address this, Mud Sang (“Knockout Punch”), an in-depth 45-minute documentary exploring Muay Thai’s “Power & Spirit,” was produced based on the research “Muay Sang: Revitalizing the History of Muay Thai on the World Stage”. The film, with subtitles in seven languages, has received international interest and is set to be screened in several countries and at film festivals.

Mud Sang delves beyond boxing, exploring Muay Thai’s history, cultural values, and traditional rituals and practices that enhance Muay Thai’s cultural appeal, for example, the Wai Khru ceremony that honors teachers, accompanied by Thai music and symbolic items like the Mongkhon (headband) and Pha Pra Chian (armband).  According to Dr. Sunait, while adapting Muay Thai for modern audiences, it’s essential to retain its core identity, especially unique regional styles like Muay Chaiya, Muay Thung Yang, Muay Korat, and Muay Lopburi, which have distinct styles and techniques.

Dr. Sunait’s team is also working on Becoming Buakaw, a documentary inspired by famed Muay Thai fighter Buakaw Banchamek, aimed at decoding his success. This project will serve as a guide for cultivating top-level fighters while preserving Muay Thai’s heritage.

Dr. Sunait stresses that understanding and conserving Muay Thai’s roots involves cooperation from educational institutions, the government, and the Ministry of Culture to support research and public knowledge. He envisions Muay Thai not only as a sport but also as a means of cultural pride and self-defense, emphasizing that accurate, culturally respectful knowledge is crucial for future generations. Through such initiatives, Thailand aims to protect and elevate Muay Thai’s status globally, ensuring that its spirit endures.

Chulalongkorn University and Department of Industrial Promotion announce success in boosting cocoa value with technology and innovation

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Innovative Agriculture-Industry, Department of Industrial Promotion, held a closing ceremony for the development of targeted processed agricultural products “Cocoa” and a press conference to announce the success of this activity on September 20, 2024, at the 1st-floor hall of Mahamakut Building, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University.

The event included a ceremony to present certificates to 17 businesses that participated in the project, and a ceremony to award outstanding product plaques to 3 businesses. Additionally, there were booths displaying beverages, food, and cosmetic products from 17 participating SMEs and community enterprises that took part in this project.

The efficient reform of Thailand’s agricultural sector is a crucial issue requiring collaboration from all sectors to elevate agricultural business operations. The key strategy relies on creating and developing agriculture towards a new era of agro-industry with business concepts, knowledge in product processing, product standards, financial and cost management, and efficient crop planning. “Cocoa” is one of the crops of the future, capable of being processed into various products such as Super Food and cosmetic products. As a result, cocoa cultivation areas have been continuously increasing. Thailand has a geographical advantage in that cacao can be grown in every region. Currently, the government has implemented a policy to rapidly enhance the potential of the cocoa industry nationwide towards becoming the ASEAN Cocoa Hub (THAI COCOA HUB) in the future.

The Innovative Agriculture-Industry, Department of Industrial Promotion, has conducted the “Target Processed Agricultural Product Development Activity (Cocoa)” under the project to elevate agricultural products to agro-industry. Faculty members from the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, provide consultation on technology and innovation, safe and standardized packaging, marketing, and finance. This is to enhance and create added value for cocoa products, promote the development and processing of agricultural products to have high value, meet standards, and align with market demands that can lead to commercial production.

In this event, Prof. Dr. Voravee Hoven, Acting Deputy Dean for Research Affairs and Head of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, delivered a welcome speech which was followed by a report by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jirarat Anuntagool from the Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Science, and Head of the Elevation of Agricultural Products to Agro-Industry Project, and a remark on the success of the project and a closing remark by Dr. Kittichote Supakumnerd, Director of Innovative Agriculture-Industry.

Thammasat University promotes adolescent well-being, easing the teenage burden

Posted on by Editorial Team

Universities have a responsibility beyond academics to support the overall well-being of their students. By creating supportive environments and mechanisms that foster well-being, institutions can help address the challenges and anxieties faced by young generations.

To address the growing mental health concerns among students, Thammasat University has launched the “Thammasat Well Being Center.” This initiative includes monitoring student well-being, with data revealing that one in three students experience stress and are at risk of depression during exams, particularly first-year students. The center offers proactive support through the ‘TU Future Wellness’ app, integrated into the university’s Super App, TU GREATS, providing convenient access to physical and mental health services. Additionally, a Health Profile database will be created to track the overall well-being of the Thammasat community.

Thammasat Well Being Center is the central hub for comprehensive health services, divided into the following areas:

1. Physical health care, which includes the presence of nursing staff at the center, as well as the support of physicians for specific cases. Additionally, a Virtual Clinic service is provided in collaboration with Thammasat University Hospital, enabling students and staff to consult with doctors online. This service is available to all students and personnel at Tha Prachan, Rangsit, Lampang, and Pattaya campuses.

2. Mental health care, with the assessment and screening through the TU Future Wellness application, as well as having a psychologist stationed at the center. Students can make appointments from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. During off-hours, an outsourced team will be available to provide telephone support. All staff members will be part of a network of Thammasat University alumni, and in urgent cases, there will be a rapid response unit ready to provide immediate assistance.

As the working world demands skills that extend beyond classroom knowledge, the Thammasat University Cooperative Education and Employment Center, or TUCEEC, has been established to prepare and enhance students’ real-world work capabilities, as well as to develop new skills for alumni.

Thammasat University aims to support its graduates in securing employment at a rate of 100%. Consequently, the university has established the TUCEEC to connect Thammasat with the business and industrial sectors. This initiative will oversee job matching, up-skilling, and re-skilling, and importantly, it will create a “Data Center” through an application that will compile students’ information and competencies in a portfolio format for employers to review. Simultaneously, it will also include data from various companies that are hiring, offering internships, and outlining other requirements for students to consider.