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Thammasat and French Institutions Renew Ties

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University has signed a memorandum of understanding for academic collaboration with ECAM LaSalle and the Institute for Research and Development (IRD) of the French Republic.

On May 14, 2026, Thammasat Rector, Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, signed a memorandum of understanding for academic cooperation between the Faculty of Engineering of Thammasat University and ECAM LaSalle, as well as cooperation between the Faculty of Science and Technology of Thammasat University and the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD) of the French Republic, during the event “Franco – Thai Symposium on Higher Education, Research and Innovation: 2026 Thailand – France International Collaboration Forum” at Centara Grand at CentralPlaza Ladprao.

The Memorandum of Understanding for Academic Collaboration between the Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat University, and ECAM LaSalle consists of three documents, which are as follows:

1. Degree Agreement in Master of Engineering with 3 Departments (Double Master Degree Agreement)

  This agreement pertains to the admission of students from ECAM LaSalle to pursue a Master’s degree at the Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat University, in the following fields of study:

  – Mechanical Engineering

  – Chemical Engineering

  – Biomedical Engineering

The student will study at the Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat, for a duration of 2 semesters, in accordance with the conditions and criteria jointly established by both institutions.

 2. Memorandum of Understanding on Student Mobility, Academic, and Research Activities (General MOU Agreement)

3. Memorandum of Agreement for the Exchange Student Program between Thammasat School of Engineering and ECAM LaSalle (Extension of Agreement)

 

This is a continuation of academic collaboration, student exchange programs, and the promotion of research and innovation by the Faculty of Engineering at Thammasat University. Since 2017, cooperation in the student exchange program has been conducted in collaboration with ECAM LaSalle in the French Republic. The original memorandum of understanding has now reached its conclusion. To ensure the ongoing and effective operation of the student exchange program, the academic cooperation agreement has been renewed for an additional period of 5 years.

The signing of the cooperation agreement between Faculty of Science and Technology of Thammasat University and the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD) aims to establish guidelines for collaboration in the fields of academics, research, training, consulting, and the exchange of scientific knowledge. This collaboration seeks to promote the development of research and international cooperation in related fields such as computer science, mathematics, and social sciences, as well as to enhance the capacity of personnel and students, establish joint research projects or units, disseminate research findings, and seek funding sources both nationally and internationally.

The event was honored by the presence of Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, and H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimbœuf, the French Ambassador to Thailand, who delivered opening remarks and witnessed the signing of the aforementioned academic cooperation memorandum.

Chula Advances Global Engagement Through ICA

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Bangkok, Thailand — Chulalongkorn University has strengthened its internationalization agenda by hosting ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026, the first official Regional Hub of the International Communication Association (ICA) ever held in Thailand.

Founded in 1950, the International Communication Association (ICA) is one of the world’s leading academic organizations in communication and media studies, bringing together thousands of scholars, researchers, and professionals from more than 80 countries. Held concurrently with the 76th ICA Annual Conference, which this year took place in Cape Town, South Africa, the Thailand Hub positions Bangkok as a key site for global scholarly exchange.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, described the event as a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to expand its global engagement.

“This event symbolically connects Cape Town and Bangkok—linking global conversations with regional realities and bringing Asian perspectives directly into the center of international communication scholarship.”

He emphasized that the conference reflects Chulalongkorn University’s vision of becoming a globally connected institution that not only participates in international conversations but also helps shape them.

“Universities are increasingly judged not only by rankings but also by their ability to create meaningful networks, advance impactful research, and build global partnerships that contribute to society.”

The event aligns closely with the university’s commitment to research excellence, international collaboration, and knowledge creation with global impact. This vision is further reflected in Professor Dr. Wilert’s recent appointment as President of the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), a network of leading universities dedicated to advancing higher education cooperation across Asia.

Hosted by the Faculty of Communication Arts during its 61st anniversary year, ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026 brings together scholars, researchers, media professionals, policymakers, and students from Thailand, the Mekong region, Asia, and beyond under the theme “Where Thailand, the Mekong Region, and Asia Bridge Divides and Amplify Voices.”

The conference addresses pressing contemporary issues, including artificial intelligence, journalism, platform governance, misinformation, communication inequalities, sustainability, public health communication, and democratic participation.

The President noted that the event serves not only as a venue for scholarly exchange but also as a catalyst for future collaboration. “The conversations that begin here may lead to future joint research projects, policy initiatives, international publications, and long-term scholarly networks.”

“This conference is more than an academic gathering. It is a platform that brings together scholars, media professionals, students, and policymakers from different countries to foster dialogue, mutual understanding, and new collaborations for the future of communication.”

The Dean added that hosting Thailand’s first ICA Regional Hub provides an important opportunity to enhance the visibility of Thai scholarship, strengthen international research networks, and connect scholars from Thailand, the Mekong region, and Asia more closely with the global communication community.

The conference reinforces Thailand’s growing role as a regional hub for communication and media studies while amplifying perspectives from Asia and the Global South within international academic discourse.

Professor Wilert expressed his hope for Bangkok’s future role in global scholarship, concluding that “May Bangkok become not just a host city for global conversations, but a permanent gateway connecting Asia to the world of communication scholarship.”

Chulalongkorn University Advances Global Engagement Through Thailand’s First ICA Regional Hub ICA Regional Hub Thailand 2026 was held from 5–7 June 2026 in Bangkok and organized by the Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the International Communication Association (ICA), the Asian Network for Public Opinion Research (ANPOR), the Thai Media Fund, and partner organizations.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/412152/

Thammasat, MIT & BBL on Water Quality

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat Holds Trilateral Meeting with MIT and Bangkok Bank on Water Quality Collaboration in Thailand

On 26 March 2026, at Thammasat’s Rangsit Center, Thammasat University – led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Pinitbhand Paribatra, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation – hosted a trilateral meeting with Prof. Retsef Levi, J. Spencer Standish (1945) Professor of Management, Operations Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, and Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool, Director and Senior Executive Vice President of Bangkok Bank.

Also in attendance were the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, the Assistant to the Rector for International Affairs, and executives from the Faculties of Science and Technology, Public Health, and the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology. Senior executives from Bangkok Bank were also present.

The discussion aimed to foster strategic three-way collaboration by integrating academic expertise with industrial and financial capabilities – particularly water quality issues. The partnership seeks to bridge innovative research with practical application and scalable impact.

Key Discussion Points

Participants explored frameworks for strategic collaboration and contributions, along with risk management strategies, to support organizations of varying size – from startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large corporations.

The meeting also covered intellectual property (IP) and collaborative mechanisms to ensure continuity of research activities. In addition, participants discussed adopting student-centered approaches, including fellowships, Active Learning, and capstone projects. These initiatives aim to enhance learning outcomes, promote practical experience, and strengthen the talent pipeline for Bangkok Bank and its partners.

Future Collaboration Plans

A multidisciplinary team from Thammasat – comprising the Faculties of Science and Technology, Public Health, and the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology – plans to submit a research proposal addressing Thailand’s pressing water quality challenges.

The proposed project will integrate advanced sensing technologies, information and communication technology (ICT), chemical and biological analysis, and public health impact assessments. The initiative aims to develop a pilot project through collaboration with MIT and Bangkok Bank, with the potential for broader national impact.

Thammasat Restores Skills, Cuts Recidivism

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat, Lampang Campus, Launches Inmate Life Skills Manual, Senior Citizen School

Recidivism in Thailand is high, with over 30% of released prisoners reoffending within three years, largely due to drug-related crimes (66.75%). Key causes include a lack of life and social skills. For elderly inmates, a changing self-perception and societal perspective, exacerbated by incarceration, is a significant factor in deterioration of their skills. Plus, in some inmates who have been in prison for an extended period, even though they have not yet reached the age defined as adulthood, their capabilities and competencies have deteriorated to a level comparable to that of the elderly. This includes slower processing of information, delayed responses to questions, and a changed perspective both towards themselves and others.

Certainly, the aforementioned situation occurs in all prisons across the country without exception. However, in the case of “Lampang Central Prison,” which houses 80 to 100 elderly inmates out of a total of 2,000, there is an effort to counter this trend by working closely with local educational institutions. Together, they aim to support and prepare inmates for reintegration into society while simultaneously reducing recidivism.

The tools utilized by the Lampang Central Prison, in addition to the activity mechanisms, include the “Life Skills and Career Development Manual” for inmates who are six months to one year away from release. This manual, developed in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Administration at Thammasat University, Lampang Campus, focuses on the rehabilitation of the mental state of elderly inmates and prepares them to have confidence in their own potential (Empowerment) before reintegrating into society.

Alongside the establishment of the “Elderly School in the Central Prison,” the first and only elderly school in Thailand, the curriculum is designed based on the needs of inmates, integrating the development of skills in three areas: academic, vocational, and life skills. In the academic domain, subjects include laws and benefits for the elderly, as well as current social and economic situations. In the vocational area, training covers cooking both savory and sweet dishes, food preservation methods, and organizing events suitable for the elderly. In the life skills category, the focus is on adapting to family, community, and society, as well as self-care in physical, mental, social, and economic aspects.

It is evident that the collaboration with educational institutions in the area to address problems through knowledge and academic expertise is the approach chosen by the Lampang Central Prison. The involvement of development partners such as Thammasat University, Lampang Campus, is powerful enough to encourage local networks to work together as a cohesive network.

This can thus be expanded into numerous projects, such as collaborating with the Elderly Social Welfare Development Center in Lampang Province to create guidelines for improving the quality of life for elderly inmates in the central prison. This initiative enhances the cognitive abilities of inmates through various training operations for personnel and staff of the prison, resulting in the formation of a Core Team, or a multidisciplinary group within the prison. This team actively participates in the rehabilitation and enhancement of the quality of life for elderly inmates, as well as establishing a Buddy Support group to assess the physical and mental health of inmates in collaboration with the Core Team.

Additionally, there is a project to develop and implement a caregiver curriculum at the Senior Citizens School of Lampang Central Prison, which has received budgetary support from the initiative under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Rajasarini Siribajra and the Ministry of Justice. This project enhances the focus on mental capacity development and human perspective, ensuring that female inmates trained in the curriculum are adequately prepared both professionally and mentally before reintegrating into society.

“Working collaboratively with network partners has resulted in improved relationships among inmates, better mental health, and enhanced vitality. The ability of elderly individuals to perform activities of daily living (ADL) shows a tendency to increase. This cooperation has transformed Lampang Central Prison into a space that can harness the potential of elderly inmates,” stated Asst. Prof. Dr. Punika Apirukkraisri from the Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University.

Not only through direct work, but the Faculty of Social Work at Thammasat University has also synthesized knowledge from experiences into an academic work titled “Development of a Model School for the Elderly as an Opportunity for Elderly Inmates,” authored by Assistant Professor Areerat Adisaidetchrin. This work has received support from the National Research Office (NRCT) and the Model Prison Development Project for Welfare Management to Enhance the Quality of Life of Elderly Inmates, led by Dr. Punika, which is supported by the Office of Support for Specific Population Health (Office 9) under the Health Promotion Foundation (Thai Health). Recently, many prisons have come to study this model to apply it as a prototype.

 Dr. Punika also stated that the ultimate goal of the initiative is to implement various systems and programs in every prison, ensuring that elderly inmates across the country receive appropriate psychological rehabilitation before reintegrating into society, thereby reducing recidivism. However, since each prison houses inmates with varying vulnerabilities, such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+ persons, and mothers with infants, rehabilitation programs or mental health care cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach; they must be specifically designed. Currently, Thammasat University has proposed guidelines to the Ministry of Justice, which are under consideration for policy implementation.

Meanwhile, despite the progress made in various areas, efforts in Lampang Province will continue. One initiative is the development of a preparedness system for families prior to the reintegration of inmates into society, in collaboration with the Lampang Provincial Office of Social Development and Human Security, while also connecting with local administrative organizations to play a role in providing care.

Chula and Nestlé Sign MOU

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University—through its Faculty of Science, Department of Food Technology, College of Extension and Lifelong Learning for the People, and Center for Social Mission—together with Nestlé (Thailand) Ltd., held a ceremony to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on academic collaboration in food and beverages. The partnership aims to strengthen research and development skills in the food and beverage sector for Chulalongkorn personnel within a real industrial ecosystem while integrating industry insights into teaching and research to support Thailand’s growth toward becoming a regional leader.

The signing ceremony took place on May 26, 2026, at Ruen Chula Narumit. Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, delivered congratulatory remarks while Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, gave the welcome address. Mr. Victor Seah, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Indochina, expressed Nestlé’s commitment to creating shared value with society and thanked the university for the collaboration.

Ms. Frida Wakyoru Moshina, Executive Director of Human Resources at Nestlé Indochina, shared the vision behind student development through the academic partnership between Nestlé and Chulalongkorn University. Ms. Aline Mor, Director of the Nestlé Product Technology Centre in Singapore, introduced the company’s R&D center, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sukanya Sompiboon, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University, emphasized the direction of international student development through the collaboration.

The official MOU signing was carried out by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat on behalf of Chulalongkorn University and Mr. Victor Seah on behalf of Nestlé Indochina. The ceremony also included the presentation of R&D internship scholarships to Mr. Rutchapong Jatupongpairoj and Ms. Chanjao Jorchuen, students from the Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Science. The event concluded with a presentation of the first collaborative activity: a Food Security Hackathon supported by Nestlé (Thai) Ltd.

Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai highlighted the critical role played by food science and nutrition in today’s world, especially regarding food security, which is closely linked to economic stability and quality of life. He noted that collaboration with a global leader like Nestlé represents an important step in enhancing education and student skill development through experiential learning. Chulalongkorn University aims to advance its “Student-Centered University” approach by giving students, faculty, and staff opportunities to learn directly from industry through short courses, study visits, and internships within Nestlé’s regional and global network.

He also emphasized the importance of sustainability knowledge, which is becoming an essential competency across disciplines, including science, economics, commerce, and the social sciences. This partnership, he said, will help prepare students to address future global challenges and create sustainable positive social impact. Food security is not only about food itself but also about the future of the nation. Chulalongkorn University is committed to advancing food and nutrition education by bridging classroom learning with practical application through collaboration with Nestlé.

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat stated that “the food of the future” must deliver not only taste but also health, quality of life, and sustainability. These are key priorities for Chulalongkorn University as it drives innovation and national food security together with Nestlé, a global leader in food and nutrition. The collaboration seeks to develop knowledge, technology, and food innovations that promote long-term well-being for the Thai people.

He explained that food in the modern world should support physical and mental health while also contributing to social and national sustainability, especially as food security becomes an increasingly important global issue. This partnership represents another milestone in integrating academic expertise with real industrial experience to create future-oriented food innovations. The university also seeks to transform student learning from classroom theory to real-world practice by allowing students from fields such as health sciences, food science, business, and economics to work on actual industry challenges alongside global partners. This will help develop future-ready talent capable of driving Thailand’s food economy sustainably.

Mr. Victor Seah noted that Nestlé and Chulalongkorn University have maintained a strong partnership for many years in areas such as knowledge development, research, and youth empowerment. Nestlé is pleased to deepen this relationship through the new agreement, reflecting a shared commitment to innovation and human resource development for a sustainable future.

The collaboration aligns with Nestlé’s “Creating Shared Value” philosophy, which focuses on generating benefits for businesses, communities, society, and the environment. Nestlé places strong importance on improving quality of life through education, research, and youth development under the “Nestlé Needs YOUth” initiative, aiming to create long-term positive change for Thailand.

The three-year agreement covers three main areas:

1. Exchange of knowledge and experience, including training, seminars, testing, inspections, consultancy, and study visits related to food products and packaging.

2. Promoting student understanding of real industrial operations within the food sector.

3. Developing short courses to support lifelong learning for staff, students, and the public, while also supporting research and joint social mission activities.

In 2026, Nestlé is providing the opportunity for internships for the third consecutive year at its Product Technology Centre in Singapore for two students from Chulalongkorn University’s Department of Food Technology. The internships allow students to gain hands-on experience with international Nestlé teams developing innovative food and beverage products that are both nutritious and appealing to consumers of all ages.

Chulalongkorn University and Nestlé have maintained long-term cooperation, particularly in supporting food technology professionals. Nestlé supports approximately 1,000 Chulalongkorn students each year through educational activities, career guidance, internships, and special development projects, helping young people advance in their careers and in the field of food science in tangible ways.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/411291/

Thammasat as a Well-Being University

Posted on by Thammasat University

TU One Health: Enhancing physical and mental stabilities

The promotion of health to enhance the quality of life for students and staff is one of the important initiatives of Thammasat University. The goal is to make Thammasat a safe space both physically and mentally, fostering sustainable happiness within the community.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pharuhat Tor-Udom, Deputy Rector for Administrative Affairs at the Center for Health Sciences, Thammasat University, stated that health care for well-being is not merely about treatment at the endpoint, but rather about promoting sustainable health care and enhancing the capacity for disease prevention before it occurs. Therefore, Thammasat University places significant importance on health promotion alongside health literacy for both students and staff through the implementation of the Good Health University policy, or TU One Health.

“Health literacy is an important matter that universities must undertake to impart to students, enabling them to understand and apply it to promote their own health and that of those around them. This lays a crucial foundation for enhancing the well-being of individuals in society in the future,” he stated.

           

Under the TU One Health policy, the administration of the Center for Health Sciences has initiated the project “One Health For Future Wellness University,” which focuses on integrating health-related operations based on key principles for the prevention, control, and resolution of systemic health issues. This is achieved through comprehensive health initiatives within the university.

Occupational Safety and Health Committee (OSH) has been established within the organization to centralize information for the management of health promotion at Thammasat University, supporting the effective implementation of TU One Health across the entire organization.

To evaluate the outcomes of these operations, in the year 2025, Thammasat University will undergo its first self-assessment to become a Healthy University through the Healthy University Rating System (HURS), which is a system used to assess and classify “health-promoting universities” to monitor progress in health promotion within higher education institutions. This system has been developed by the ASEAN University Network on Health Promotion (AUN-HPN).

Thammasat University achieved a total score of 725 points out of a possible 1,000 points, representing 72.5%, and is rated at 4 stars. The assessment results are summarized in three areas as follows:

1. System and Infrastructure (SI) – Scoring 68.9%, with the highest scores in the capacity to create health promotion capabilities (87.5) and research in health promotion (83.3).

2. Health Promotion Areas (HA) – Scoring 74.5%, receiving full points for areas related to mental well-being and social interaction, with health literacy scoring at 87.5%.

3. Zero Tolerance Areas (ZA) – Scoring 76.8%, with the highest zero tolerance areas concerning smoking (87.5) and alcohol consumption (87.5).

This assessment reflects a portion of the results from the efforts to create a “Healthy University,” demonstrating both strengths and areas for further development to sustainably enhance the well-being of the Thammasat community with standards and tangible outcomes.

Chula Launches CUii to Shape Education

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University held a press conference to officially launch the Chulalongkorn University College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies (CUii) to advance interdisciplinary education in response to the demands of the modern world. The college will offer programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels under the concept of The First Tailor-made S-Curve College. CUii will serve as a central platform for integrating knowledge across disciplines to cultivate highly capable individuals who can drive the country’s future through innovation and integrated solutions to global challenges.

The press conference took place on May 19, 2026, at the Chalerm Rajakumari 60 Building (Chamchuri 10). The event was presided over by Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council who delivered the opening remarks. Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, shared the university’s vision for shaping the future of education, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thiti Bovornratanaraks discussed the background, mission, and role of CUii in developing an education system that truly responds to global transformation.

Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, stated that the establishment of CUii is a strategic initiative designed to address major global shifts, including artificial intelligence (AI), demographic transformation, and geopolitics. The establishment was officially announced in the Royal Gazette and became effective on January 24, 2026. He described it as a historic milestone that marks the transition of universities from merely “adapting to the world” to actively “shaping the future” by producing graduates capable of solving complex challenges facing Thailand and the global community.

He further emphasized that today’s global challenges—including AI, climate change, aging societies, and geopolitical tensions—cannot be solved through a single discipline alone. Interdisciplinary integration among faculties and academic fields is therefore essential for developing future-ready curricula and talent. He also highlighted the importance of lifelong learning, enabling students, staff, and the general public to continuously upskill and reskill. In addition, he noted that the role of educators must evolve from “knowledge transmitters” into “coaches” or “mentors” with real-world experience promoting action-based learning in collaboration with businesses, government agencies, and civil society.

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, stated that the launch of CUii marks a significant step in educational development to meet contemporary global challenges. The college aims to create a lifelong learning ecosystem that connects knowledge across faculties and disciplines, allowing learners to integrate multiple fields of study in practical ways. He noted that the modern world requires individuals who can think across boundaries, collaborate with experts from diverse backgrounds, and tackle complex national issues. CUii is therefore positioned as a center for integrated knowledge, connecting government, industry, and international networks to develop innovations with practical and measurable impact.

Prof. Dr. Wilert stressed that CUii is not merely an academic space but also a collaborative culture that transforms diversity into creative power. Its mission is to nurture a new generation capable of moving beyond traditional academic boundaries and contributing to the future direction of Thai society. The college is already advancing through interdisciplinary programs that clearly respond to the demands of learning and work in today’s world.

“Universities today can no longer focus solely on producing specialists in isolated fields. The AI and innovation era requires people with multidisciplinary knowledge who can integrate expertise to solve real-world problems. The College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies therefore aims to promote interdisciplinary learning and develop a new generation equipped with both specialization and broad-based capabilities. The university’s role must evolve from being a ‘follower’ to becoming a ‘future shaper’ through curriculum design and skill development aligned with the future workforce and global society,” said the President of Chulalongkorn University.

CUii also revealed that the university has transformed the former Graduate School into the College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies in order to support interdisciplinary education at all levels, from undergraduate and graduate programs to lifelong learning.

The college focuses on integrating interdisciplinary knowledge with modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation to enhance teaching, learning, and research quality. It also aims to develop learners with well-rounded capabilities, including creativity, analytical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills.

CUii additionally serves as a hub for collaboration among faculties, institutions, and sectors both domestically and internationally to support joint knowledge creation and innovation. At the same time, it seeks to strengthen General Education (GenEd) courses to foster broader perspectives and sustainable social value.

The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Interdisciplinary Programs for the Future: Designing Learning to Meet a Changing Society,” where experts from various fields exchanged perspectives and experiences on developing interdisciplinary curricula for practical implementation. Asst. Prof. Dr. Pichaya Rachdawong from the Energy Technology and Management Program and Asst. Prof. Dr. Kavin Asawanant from the Technology and Innovation Management Program (CU TIP) shared approaches to curriculum development aligned with industrial transformation. Mr. Krida Kritiyachotipakorn, Deputy Director General, Revenue Department presented examples of academic collaboration in developing the Master of Arts Program in Taxation Management, demonstrating the practical application of interdisciplinary knowledge.

Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Dr. Amornpun Sereemaspun from the Biomedical Sciences and Vela programs, together with Asst. Prof. Dr. Sojiphong Chatraphorn at the Faculty of Science, presented interdisciplinary curriculum development in quantum technology to prepare future talent for scientific and technological advancement. Pensiri Na Nakhon Phanom, a student in the CU TIP program, also shared her experience applying interdisciplinary knowledge to business development and entrepreneurship.

The launch of CUii represents more than a transition from the former Graduate School; it signifies the elevation of the institution into a center for interdisciplinary integration that connects academia, industry, and society to develop learning models aligned with social transformation and national needs.

Currently, CUii offers master’s and doctoral degree programs across 21 academic disciplines and 37 programs, covering four major clusters: Health Sciences, Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The programs are designed to promote integrated learning and develop a workforce prepared for social, economic, and technological change.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/409684/

Thammasat MBA Clinches 5th OpsSimCom Title

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat MBA Wins 5th Consecutive OpsSimCom World Championship

The Thammasat MBA “Dracarys” team secured their 5th consecutive OpsSimCom World Championship, a global Operations & Supply Chain simulation organized by MIT Sloan. The winning team includes Suphanat Hannarong, Thammaporn Thirapakphum-anan, Pharmacist Kanisorn Leartpattanasak, and Nitiphon Chattrakool, advised by Asst. Prof. Dr. Krit Pattamaroj from Thammasat Business School. Initially ranked near the bottom in practice, the Dracarys team was motivated by a ‘nothing to lose’ attitude to give their utmost effort in OpsSimCom. This global Operations Management simulation requires managing the entire operations and supply chain, including costs, production, pricing, and business outcomes, with real-time KPIs driving pressurized, effective cost management decisions.

 

“This year’s challenge is considerably more difficult than in previous years, as there are multiple cost components that need to be managed continuously. A particular challenging task is identifying cost optimization, including how much we should sell, how we should adjust our processes, and how we should manage operations across the entire chain. It is important to note that this year, every team begins the game with a negative status from the outset,” stated Nitiphon.

“Four Eyes Principle” – A Strategy to Mitigate Uncertainty

Regarding the competitive strategy, Thammaporn explained that the team focuses on gathering opinions from each member. Everyone contributes suggestions on how to make decisions in various situations, which are then evaluated for their advantages, disadvantages, and potential risks associated with each option before a collective decision is made.

During the competition, Nitiphon added that if there is a relatively calm period and an unexpected event occurs, the team will hold a meeting or conference call immediately, with at least one to two people involved, to collaboratively address the issue as quickly as possible. Having more than one person to brainstorm, or the Four Eyes principle, helps alleviate the pressure of decision-making and enhances the sharpness of decisions made during high-pressure situations.

TBS: Teamwork

In addition to the hard skills or knowledge that the faculty members have imparted intensively through learning and practical experience, Pharmacist Kanisorn stated that another crucial aspect is soft skills, particularly teamwork. “Throughout the 48 hours of the competition, we had to stay together, think together, and make decisions together. There were many moments when problems and obstacles arose, but what TBS designed in the curriculum helped shape our ability to brainstorm, work collaboratively, and move forward together towards the goals we set.” he said.

Victory from “surpassing one’s own limits”

Kanisorn and Nitipon attributed their victory to ‘surpassing one’s own limits’. Kanisorn initially never imagined reaching the pinnacle of success like previous champions, but credited TBS for instilling the confidence to do so. Nitipon gained crucial confidence in decision-making and applying knowledge, and encouraged others to seize every opportunity, no matter how small.

Thai NuRA Project Targets Coastal Pollution

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University, through Chula Unisearch, in collaboration with Thailand’s Pollution Control Department under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) via the Coordinating Body on the Seas of East Asia (COBSEA), held an inception workshop to launch the “Thai NuRA” (Nutrient Reduction Action) project under the theme “Seeding a Nutrient Pollution Reduction Strategy for the Coastal Waters of Thailand” on May 7, 2026, at Skyview Hotel Bangkok. 

The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, along with executives and experts from government agencies, international organizations, and academia. 

On this occasion, Dr. Supichai Tangjaitrong, Executive Director of Chula Unisearch and the university’s representative, stated: “Chulalongkorn University is ready to serve as a driving academic force through research and cross-sector collaboration to identify and sustainably reduce the ‘sources’ of nutrient pollution flowing into Thailand’s seas.” 

The project aims to address pollution caused by nitrogen and phosphorus, which are major contributors to algal blooms — also referred to in Thailand as the “Matcha Sea” phenomenon — that negatively affect marine ecosystems, tourism, and the country’s fisheries sector. 

The Thai NuRA project operates under the “Source-to-Sea” concept, focusing on pollution management from inland sources to coastal waters. Its activities include knowledge development, policy support, pilot-area innovations, and stakeholder participation across sectors. 

Thailand is one of 14 countries receiving support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) under the global GEF-8 Clean and Healthy Ocean Integrated Program (CHO-IP). 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/304462/

TU & Nai Lert Academy Elevate Thai Talent

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University and Nai Lert Butler Academy (under Nai Lert Education Co., Ltd.) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 30, 2026, at Nai Lert Park to enhance Thai human resources through world-class academic and professional skill development.

 

This partnership merges Thammasat’s academic leadership with the Academy’s luxury service expertise to set new global education standards. Under this cooperation, both institutions will launch a Joint Certificate Program, executive training, and international exchange initiatives. They will also collaborate on research and policy forums to address modern global needs. This partnership leverages the Academy’s luxury service expertise to establish new global education standards. Both parties will launch a Joint Certificate Program, executive training, and international exchanges for students and experts. They will also collaborate on research and policy forums to address modern global needs, particularly by expanding professional skills development into the high-potential Middle East and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets. Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, noted that this collaboration creates a learning ecosystem beyond academic linkage,

This three-year collaboration will serve as a significant starting point for the development of diverse projects and academic activities, while also establishing an international network of cooperation. This initiative not only aims to elevate Thai education but also acts as a crucial mechanism for advancing Thailand’s Soft Power through the development of human resources in the dimensions of education, services, and cultural diplomacy.

Nai Lert Butler Academy stated, “We are committed to integrating world-class service standards with academic excellence in order to cultivate personnel who are well-prepared with skills, vision, and the ability to step onto the international stage.”

The signing ceremony was attended by various participants, including Professor Emeritus Noranit Setthabut, Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanyaporn Sunthorntham, Director of Thammasat Institute Area Studies, Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Pinitbhand Paribat, Deputy Rector for Research and Innovation and a board member of Thammasat Institute of Area Studies, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Puli Fuwongcharoen, Dean of Political Science Faculty and a board member of Thammasat Institute Area Studies, and Mr. Chakrinenorrathip Savikul, Chief of Staff for the Department of South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Including representatives from Nai Lert Butler Academy, such as Ms. Napaporn Bodiratnangkura, Chief Executive Officer of Nai Lert Education Co., Ltd., Ms. Pilaiphan Sombutsiri, Chairperson of Nai Lert Development Co., Ltd., Mr. Sanhapit Bodiratnangkura, Chairperson of Nai Lert Co., Ltd., and Mr. Pisit Hongsakornprasert, Director of Nai Lert Butler Academy, participated in this event.