Tag: Thailand

On Tuesday, 11 November 2025, at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously presided over the opening ceremony of the 51st International Congress on Science, Technology and Technology-based Innovation (STT51). The event was organized by the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Science Society of Thailand Under the Patronage of His Majesty the King and the Information Technology Foundation under the Initiatives of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, to honor the auspicious occasion of Her Royal Highness’s 70th birthday. 

Upon Her Royal Highness’s arrival at the auditorium, Prof. Dr. Suttichai Assabumrungrat, Chair of the STT51 Organizing Committee, presented the conference documents, Prof. Dr. Pairash Thajchayapong, Committee Member and Secretary-General of the Information Technology Foundation, presented a special issue of the Science Journal; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanuttkhul Mongkolaussavarat, President of the Science Society of Thailand Under the Patronage of His Majesty the King, and Prof. Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, presented commemorative gifts. Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, expressed gratitude for Her Royal Highness’s kind participation. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanuttkhul Mongkolaussavarat then reported the objectives of the event and announced the names of 30 award recipients to receive certificates from the Princess. 

Her Royal Highness then delivered the opening remarks for STT51 and gave the Honorary Keynote Address, reflecting her profound vision and significant role in advancing education, science, and technology in Thailand. 

Her Royal Highness listened to a lecture by Prof. Jun Cao, Director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (iHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), titled “SINO-THAI Collaboration on JUNO”. This was followed by a lecture by Prof. Dr. Siriporn Chattipakorn, Thailand’s Outstanding Scientist of 2025, on “How Obesity Leads to Cognitive Impairment and Brain Aging: Approaches to Intervention.” Her Royal Highness then proceeded to the glass hall of the auditorium to view exhibitions honoring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, along with exhibitions on Thai Chinese scientific and technological cooperation, the Science Society of Thailand, research from the Faculty of Science, and secondary-school-level science projects. 

She then proceeded to the Maha Chulalongkorn Building to lay a floral garland in tribute before the royal portraits of King Chulalongkorn and King Vajiravudh. Before departing, Her Royal Highness took a commemorative photograph with the executive committees of the Science Society of Thailand and the Information Technology Foundation, leaders of related institutions, keynote speakers, members of the Council of Science Deans of Thailand, the international conference organizing committee, invited speakers, representatives of co-hosting organizations, and administrators of the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, at Room 105 of the Maha Chulalongkorn Building. 

The 51st International Congress on Science, Technology and Technology-Based Innovation (STT51) was held from 11–13 November 2025 at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, under the theme “Collaboration Across Frontiers: From Quantum and Cosmos to Global Biodiversity.” The conference aimed to create an integrated platform for scientific and technological knowledge across diverse fields—from quantum and cosmic sciences to global biodiversity and sustainability—promoting true cross-disciplinary, cross-institutional, and cross-border scientific collaboration. 

This year’s event also celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China and the 108th anniversary of the founding of the Faculty of Science at Chulalongkorn University. It also aligned with UNESCO’s designation of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. 

The congress featured academic sessions and research presentations across more than 20 fields, spanning physical sciences, biology, health sciences, artificial intelligence, materials science, energy, environment, food and agricultural technology, and sustainability. Specialized symposia and sessions included quantum science and technology, cosmology and astrophysics, biodiversity and climate change, color science and cultural heritage, and science communication in the data era. 

The conference placed strong emphasis on Thai Chinese cooperation in science and technology, particularly in space exploration, planetary missions, atmospheric systems, global climate, polar research, and environmental sustainability projects—leveraging advanced technology to address shared global challenges of the 21st century. 

STT51 also featured youth-focused activities, including the Junior Young Rising Stars of Science Award (JYRSS) for secondary school students and the Young Rising Stars of Science Award (YRSS) for university students, providing young researchers with opportunities to present their work, exchange ideas with international scientists, and build future research networks. 

In addition to keynote lectures by leading Thai and international scientists, the event included oral and poster presentations, exhibitions showcasing scientific and technological innovations from academia, research institutions, and industry, and networking activities among researchers, youth, and the private sector. 

STT51 serves as a global platform for collaboration, enabling scientists from different generations and regions to exchange knowledge, inspire new ideas, and jointly shape the future of science and technology for a sustainable world. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/272503/

Chulalongkorn University has been ranked by the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026, a global ranking of universities based on sustainability performance, placing 3rd in ASEAN, 1st in Thailand (same as last year), 15th in Asia, and 165th globally among more than 2,000 universities worldwide. The results were announced on November 18, 2025. 

The QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026 evaluates universities on their efforts to address environmental and social challenges. The assessment covers Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance. 

Chulalongkorn University’s performance in the 2026 rankings improved compared to 2025, achieving an overall score of 85.5. This reflects excellence across multiple dimensions and demonstrates the university’s commitment to sustainable development and tackling environmental and social challenges, driving progress toward greater sustainability and equity. Notable achievements include: 

• Environmental Sustainability: 81st in the world 
• Knowledge Exchange: 138th in the world 
• Equality: 175th in the world 
• Employability and Opportunities: 179th in the world 

For more details on the QS Sustainability university rankings, visit: https://www.topuniversities.com/sustainability-rankings 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/272206/

Chulalongkorn University’s Learning Innovation Center, in collaboration with Coursera for Campus, organized the 5th President’s Distinguished Speakers event at Room 801, Chaloem Rajakumari 60 Building (Chamchuri 10). The event was opened by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and featured a special lecture titled: “Purpose-Driven Learning: The Human Foundation for Flourishing in an AI-Powered Economy” 

The speaker was Dr. Victor Strecher, a pioneering professor at the School of Public Health, University of Michigan, and a well-known behavioral scientist, author, and educator on Coursera. He is the creator of the acclaimed online course “Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life,” ranked the 4th best online course in the world in 2020 by Inc. Magazine. The session was moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thiraput Pitichat, Assistant to the President for Organizational Development. 

Key Highlights from Dr. Victor Strecher’s Talk: 

Dr. Strecher shared insights on purpose-driven learning as a foundational element for building resilience, well-being, and high performance in the AI era. He emphasized how connecting “life purpose” to “skill development” can unlock personal and organizational innovation in a rapidly changing world. The lecture attracted a large audience, including faculty, staff, and students. 

He stressed that humans need more than just energy and skills —they need a clear life purpose, a guiding “compass” that directs their actions. He encouraged the audience to find inspiration in discovering their purpose. For example, he explained that fear creates mental barriers, but purpose is the only force that can break them down. 

“Don’t let fear control your life. The brain is for thinking, not for being ruled by fear,” he said. “True life’s purpose is driven by inner values—it organizes life toward what truly matters. People with a clear purpose are four times less likely to consider self-harm than those without one. Having a reason to wake up each morning is the best medicine for the mind.” 

AI as a Tool for Human Empowerment 

Dr. Strecher also touched on the dual nature of AI, noting that it can either displace jobs or elevate human potential exponentially, depending on whether it is used with purpose. 

“We often talk about AI as if it’s one thing. In fact, it represents many forms of intelligence, and we must learn how to coexist with it. If we understand ourselves, we’ll know which types of AI suit us best. AI can’t replace everything human, but it can amplify our truest selves.” 

Health and Public Well-being Through Purpose 

From a public health perspective, he argued that health care shouldn’t focus only on prevention or treatment but also on helping people live meaningful lives with a clear sense of direction. 

Research shows that reflecting on personal values and envisioning one’s future self can stimulate brain functions responsible for identity, emotional regulation, and psychological resilience. 

Integrating Purpose with AI and Skills 

Dr. Strecher concluded that when identity and life purpose are well connected with AI tools, AI becomes a “multiplier” that supports and empowers personal identity models. Blending skills with life purpose creates learners and leaders who are more hopeful and confident in their direction and capabilities.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/264829/

Patients suffering from Hemophilia, a genetic disease that lasts throughout one’s lifetime and has no long-term cure can still expect a quality of life.  A Chula medical specialist recommends preventive replacement factor treatment that uses an application to record abnormal bleeding along with regular communication with one’s physician.

Bleeding when one is wounded is a common occurrence for everyone.  Yet there are cases where a person experiences bleeding without having had any cuts or wounds.  There can also be instances of bleeding without any wounds or only a slight injury and the bleeding shows no sign of stopping especially in the joints or muscles.  These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored since they might mean that a person has Hemophilia. 

Dr. Chatphatai Moonla, General Medicine Instructor, General Practitioner in Hematologic Diseases, Division of General Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital explains that “Hemophilia is a genetic disease that is found only in males.  Out of a population of ten to twenty thousand, one hemophiliac might be found.  This disease is caused by a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clot.  Patients usually display abnormal bleeding patterns from the time of their birth while in some cases they are found in their childhood or adolescence if they experience joint bleeds or easy bruising during the motor development process.”  

At present, around 1,800 people suffer from Hemophilia but it is hoped that more patients can be diagnosed, especially hose displaying only mild symptoms.  This would require more awareness among the public and medical professionals in all areas to realize the importance of detecting this disease.  

What causes Hemophilia

Hemophilia is caused by a disorder of the gene that creates the coagulation factor which is called factor for short.  There are two important factors: factor VIII and factor IX. Those lacking factor VIII have hemophilia A and those without factor IX have hemophilia B.  In 2020, Thailand had 1,600 patients with hemophilia A and 200 with hemophilia B.  

Dr. Chatphatai explained that hemophilia A and B are both X-linked recessive disorders which is why it affects males who acquire the X hemophiliac chromosome from their mothers while females with the hemophiliac gene are carriers but asymptomatic.

 How much bleeding indicates that it’s hemophilia?

Characteristic symptoms for hemophilia vary according to severity.  80-100 percent of the bleeding is joint bleeding whereas 10-20% is muscle bleeding that happens after an accident or collision such as in a sports tournament.  The severity of the disease depends on the level of factor VII or factor IX and can be divided into 3  levels as follow:

Severe hemophilia symptoms (factor level less than 1 percent) usually show signs of bruising on their bodies from the time they are very young, and experience joint or muscle bleeding without having had an accident or collision. 

Moderate hemophilia symptoms (factor level of 1-5 percent) will experience joint or muscle bleeding after only a slight accident.  In only some cases will they experience joint bleeds on their own.

Slight hemophilia symptoms (factor level between 5-40 percent) usually don’t bleed on their own but will find it hard to stop the bleeding after an accident or surgical procedure like tooth extraction, for example. 

 Easy bleeding makes life difficult.

Patients with hemophilia have to be extra cautious in avoiding crashes and collisions.  This affects their way of life, especially for those in their childhood where active fun and games are a part of their physical development and learning process. 

“Active kids who take part in strenuous physical activities that affect their muscles and joints may encounter situations of bleeding.  Many need to refrain from such activities and some need to be absent from school whenever they start bleeding and require treatment. Those who fail to receive treatment when they are young will go through osteoarthritis or joint impairments that adversely affect their way of life and put them in need of caregiver’s assistance and worse yet, disabilities leading to them being crippled.” 

 

Diagnosis of hemophilia

Dr. Chatphatai advises male babies born to families with a history of hemophilia to be tested for the disease by way of assessing their blood clot ability and factor levels of factor VII and IX from the time of their birth or during infancy. 

“A family with a child who shows abnormal bleeding in the joints or muscles or has bleeding marks on the skin after only a small bump should bring the baby to his pediatrician for assessment.”

“Patients showing slight or moderate signs who encounter bruising or bleeding in the joints or muscles, or those who continue to bleed after a tooth extraction or surgery should make sure to see their physician for further diagnosis as well.”

 Forms of treatment to ensure a better quality of life

We have yet to find a cure for hemophilia but there are two forms of treatment available – treatment and prevention of bleeding episodes. 

“Prevention is the best form of treatment which is done by replacing the missing blood clotting factors 2-3 or more times a week.  Here in Thailand, there are still some limitations based on budgetary concerns whereas in some foreign countries, factors could be given every other day to prevent abnormal bleeding and successfully delay joint osteoarthritis.”   

Since care for hemophilia patients needs to be done continuously throughout the patient’s lifetime, systems and technologies have therefore been developed to help both the patients and their doctors to follow up on their symptoms and provide extended care.  Various applications such as the HemMobile recommended by King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital have been tested on patients.  The application works like a personal assistant for the patient recording all instances of abnormal bleeding and factor injections onto the application that will process that data onto the physician to observe the patient’s bleeding patterns leading to greater accuracy and appropriate treatment.” 

“Care for a hemophiliac is a lifelong process.  The patient and his family must understand the disease as well
as the treatment.  The team of doctors treating the patient must be knowledgeable and engage in a close relationship with the patient.  This will ensure that the patient will receive appropriate care in the long run and
be able to live with hemophilia while enjoying a good quality of life, especially for children who should be able to grow up with a strong life and with the least occurrences of osteoarthritis.”  Dr. Chatphatai concluded.

Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) has captured global attention as a unique development philosophy, emphasizing holistic well-being over mere economic metrics. Yet, as Mr. Namgay Tshering, Former Finance Minister of Bhutan and alumnus of Chulalongkorn University’s Master of Public Health program, points out, the concept often raises questions: “People tend to ask whether every Bhutanese is happy. GNH is not about individual happiness alone—it’s about collective wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusivity.”

Highlights

• When Happiness Meets Real-World Pressures
• Turning Vision into Sustainable Action
• Redefining Leadership for a Changing World
• Shaping Perspectives and Inspiring Action
• Watch the videos for this story

“People tend to ask whether every Bhutanese is happy.”

When Happiness Meets Real-World Pressures

Bhutan faces modern pressures that test the resilience of its happiness-centric model. The country remains largely import-driven, leaving it vulnerable to global economic shocks and inflationary pressures. Tourism, once a cornerstone of the economy, is still recovering from the pandemic, and over-reliance on any single sector proved risky. Technological advancements, while offering opportunities, also pose societal challenges. As Tshering notes, youth may struggle to make rational decisions in the digital age, requiring careful oversight and education.

Turning Vision into Sustainable Action

To address these challenges, Bhutan has embraced sustainable policies and diversified its economy. During his tenure as Finance Minister, Tshering developed public financial management and debt policies as well as enacted taxation laws—all evaluated through the GNH framework to ensure meaningful, sustainable growth. Beyond governance, Bhutan has launched visionary projects such as the Gelephu Mindfulness City, championed by His Majesty the Fifth King. The city integrates nature conservation, spirituality, economic growth, and good governance, serving as a global model of mindful urban development.

Moreover, Bhutan invests heavily in youth development programs to ensure that young citizens grow to be healthy, sensible, and responsible individuals, capable of embracing technology while preserving cultural values. Tshering continues to mentor the next generation, guiding them toward balanced, impactful lives.

Redefining Leadership for a Changing World

Reflecting on leadership, Tshering emphasizes a holistic approach: academic excellence alone does not make a leader. “Embrace a wholesome education—go beyond the curriculum, explore different perspectives, and understand global dynamics,” he advises.

“Academic excellence alone won’t make you a leader,

but embracing a wholesome education by going beyond the curriculum is essential for developing leadership skills.“

His career exemplifies this philosophy, blending national service with international experience at the World Health Organization, World Bank, and Global Fund.

Shaping Perspectives and Inspiring Action

After his undergraduate studies in Bhutan, Tshering pursued a Master of Public Health at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand’s oldest and most prestigious institution. He credits Chula for providing not just academic knowledge, but a global perspective: “I could discuss policies, meet colleagues from different countries, and hear about their experiences. It has been a driving force behind my success.”

Through his work, Tshering demonstrates how Chula alumni contribute to society on both national and international stages, applying knowledge with purpose, compassion, and a commitment to sustainable development.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/260992/