Tag: Thammasat University

Thammasat University and Charoen Pokphand Group Public Company Limited (CP) convened a meeting to discuss the establishment of collaboration in research and academic knowledge concerning health sciences and technology, particularly regarding food and cancer prevention, innovative treatment through the modification of the body’s microorganisms to prevent and treat diseases (Microbiota and Microbiota-based therapy), and holistic care for the aging population in the country. Furthermore, they aim to promote cooperation in achieving excellence in various academic fields, such as biotechnology, preventive medicine through telemedicine systems, Thai herbal medicine, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics. It fosters collaboration between researchers and faculty members from Thammasat University and CP Company in the development and promotion of high-quality research, as well as the exchange of knowledge on technological advancements. Additionally, it provides Thammasat students with the opportunity to learn about progress, gain practical experience, and acquire knowledge from the quality personnel of CP Company.

Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, the Rector of Thammasat University, stated that this year marks the 90th anniversary of Thammasat University, and we are entering our 91st year. He believes that the strength of Thammasat University lies in the profound understanding of society, economics, and politics, making us one of the leading institutions in Thailand. However, what has changed is the expansion of knowledge into the fields of health sciences and technology. Today presents a significant opportunity for Thammasat University, as an academic world, to collaborate with the business sector amidst the waves of competition. This will be beneficial for both organizations.

Mr. Boonchai Opas-iam-likit, US, EU, and UK Business Chairman of CPG, stated that he feels honored to have the opportunity to discuss collaborative efforts. Thammasat University itself is a nurturing ground for knowledge and holds a distinguished legacy for Thai society, education, and the economy. From Thammasat, they will explore various aspects of medicine, traditional Thai medicine, and AI, in order to jointly develop knowledge for the benefit of the people, society, and the nation.

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.

The championship or ‘World Champion’ title, along with another ‘2 major awards’, from Sauder Summit Global Case Competition 2024, held at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada, is the proudest achievement of Thailand as the team from Business School of Thammasat University has performed their utmost capability.

In the realm of educational institutions regarding Business School, it is well known that the Sauder Summit Global Case Competition is considered a prestigious arena and a platform for showcasing the potential of students, educational institutions, and countries.

In the recent competition, the ‘4 students’ representing Thailand from the Thammasat Business School, namely Manassaya Ploynumpol, Suchada Charoengkittitum, Bunburit Kittirattanakhun, and Sansnae Muneeganont, fourth-year students of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program, have proudly announced Thailand’s success by ranking first among 16 business university teams from around the world that were invited to compete.

Moreover, the Thammasat students team also won the People’s Choice Award from the voting results, which was the consensus of the participants in the competition, and Dr. Worapong Janyangyuen, the academic and student affairs advisor of the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) international program, was able to successfully win the Best Faculty Advisor award.

For the Sauder Summit Global Case Competition, it is a business strategy competition that lasts for 5 days. Each team is given various industry challenges to plan, including increasing revenue, reducing costs, and expanding the business. The judges are high-level executives from leading organizations in that industry. In 2024, there were 16 participating top universities, such as Copenhagen Business School, CUHK Business School, University of Glasgow, Adam Smith Business School, etc.

The competition is divided into 4 groups, with 3 rounds each. The first and second rounds are a duration of 5 hours each. Competitors receive approximately 20 pages of paper as data. During the competition, the internet cannot be used. Once the time is up, the committee will rank the teams based on their scores, from highest to lowest. The ranking has an impact on the final round of the competition.

There is a total of 24 hours in the final round and the internet is allowed. This round is similar to the first two rounds but will increase the intensity of the details to be presented. The competition is divided into 2 sub-rounds to find the winning team to compete.

“Thammasat Debate Team” has been awarded the Royal Trophy, the first-place award, by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for the academic year 2023 in the 26th Freshy Debate for Higher Education Institutes by the Higher Education Rhetoric Group (Udom Vatasil) at Thammasat University, Rangsit Center.

Students participated are:

1. Natchalida Nakngam, 4th year, Faculty of Liberal Arts
2. Sueksa Sahunalu, 4th year, Faculty of Liberal Arts
3. Nanthasawat Wongrianniyom, 4th year, Faculty of Law
4. Thanaporn Kamnerdkarn, 3rd year, Faculty of Pharmacy
5. Pinpak Jotikabukkhana, 2nd year, Faculty of Political Science
6. Nannapat Phongwitoon, 2nd year, Faculty of Liberal Arts
7. Napat Kongmuang, 2nd year, Faculty of Science and Technology
8. Kantha Duang-in, 2nd year, Thammasat Business School

Sueksa Sahunalu, a 4th year student of the Faculty of Liberal Arts, one of the debate team members awarded as an ‘Outstanding Debater’, shares thoughts and experiences gained from participating in this competition.

As a winner

We felt immense joy because ‘Udom Debate’ is a dream for many debaters, and it is also a stage with a memorable history. We, as debaters, hope to be on this stage at least once in our lifetime. Initially, we thought there would be no chance after being separated for years during the COVID. Some of us are in our last year of study. However, in the end, the Udom Debate Group managed to organize and succeed.

We are also proud of ourselves, our teammates, and everyone behind the scenes who helped make the team successful. Because we are the ‘Thammasat University Debate Team,’ the success that occurred did not solely result from the four of us standing on stage. Instead, it is a success that, if any one of us were missing, we might not have achieved our goal.

What is the technique for winning the championship?

Before the competition, we would spend our weeks preparing. We had to practice speaking and gather information to compete every Saturday. The competition period was a time when we had to devote ourselves to it fully, feeling like we spent a lot of energy. The competition spanned over several months, and when combined with practice time, it was quite a long period of working together.

The technique that led us to victory, I believe, is teamwork. As mentioned, our victory didn’t come solely from the four debaters. Before we could present our stance, it required going through various team processes and stages. Everyone had equal responsibilities, and ultimately, the success belonged to the team as a whole.

What is the key to debating?

I believe the key to debating lies in rational thinking and listening attentively. In each debate, we must begin by considering what questions our opponents are posing and how we can respond. This involves planning how to present our arguments logically, supported by evidence, and persuading the audience that what we are saying is ‘the truth’ through our presentation of all the points. Subsequently, we must also be good listeners.

Therefore, the art of debating helps us in learning and navigating life. It prompts us to think before acting and to choose our words carefully during classroom presentations or reports preparations that require critical thinking and conveying content. Additionally, it also enhances public speaking skills. We become more confident in expressing our thoughts, unafraid of being judged or criticized. Wherever we go, we’re assuredly not afraid to speak up, I guarantee you there won’t be any ‘dead air’.

Thammasat University and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, represented by the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), have signed a memorandum of understanding with PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to collaborate on research and development of renewable energy technologies and sustainable innovations in the fields of biotechnology, food technology, computer and electronics technology, metal and material technology, energy, and nanotechnology. Mr. Permsuk Sutchaphiwat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, attended the signing ceremony, together with Asso. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, Rector of Thammasat University, Mr. Somboon Sahasithiwat (Ph.D.), Deputy Director of Research and Development Division, NSTDA, Ms. Kanchanee Udomkulwanich, Senior Executive Vice President for Petroleum Operations, OR, and the project’s management team and researchers.

Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, the Rector of Thammasat University, stated that Thammasat University aims to produce graduates in all degrees with knowledge and abilities in both theoretical and practical aspects in every dimension. The university has a team of professors and researchers who are experts with diverse experiences in various fields. Each one has the ability to cultivate and create innovations that align with the needs of the industrial sector.

“Thammasat University has participated in the Reinventing University project, a cutting-edge global research development initiative since the beginning of 2023, driven by IJC-FOODSEC. Thammasat University anticipates that the collaboration between IJC-FOODSEC and the food industry, both domestic and international, will be a game changer in developing high-level human resources as a key force in national development. This will promote Thammasat University’s excellence and establish its excellence on the global stage in the future.” – Assoc. Prof. Gasinee, stated.

Mr. Somboon Sahasithiwat (Ph.D.), Deputy Director of Research and Development Division, NSTDA, also stated that there has been an elevation in research, development, and personnel collaboration exchange to promote fairness and inclusiveness across all specialized fields of the national research centers under NSTDA. These three organizations are working together to drive and support sustainable research and innovation. Currently, the collaborations are as follows:

1. Development of a measurement system for analyzing ethanol in fuel oil at desired locations is a project collaboration between NSTDA, MTECH, NECTEC, and IJC-FOODSEC under the BioTech-TU-QUB program, funded by OR and led by Dr. Thanasas Suksrimuang, a senior researcher in material transformation innovation at MTECH.

2. The Industrial Postdoc program, supported by PMU-B, is led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Awanwee Petchkongkaew, a lecturer of the Food Science and Technology Faculty at Thammasat University. This program is conducted as part of the research collaboration between OR, MTECH, and NECTEC.

3. The collaborative research project on increasing the value of coffee production waste materials is a collaboration between NSTDA, BioTech, and a research team from OR, led by Dr. Verawat Champreda, the head of the Bio-refinery and Bioproduct Technology Research Group.

All three organizations are interested in collaborating on research and development in various fields, such as research and development related to food waste management from restaurants within the PTT gas station service area. Research and development in the coffee varieties for Amazon Cafe, which is a business within OR group and biotech research team.

Prof. Dr. Rattha-korn Vilaichone, the Assistant to the Rector for Academic Affairs at Thammasat University, revealed that Thammasat University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SCB Academy, Siam Commercial Bank PCL, to collaborate in creating online learning courses for university students and the general public. This collaboration aims to drive the development of digital human capacity skills in order to create a sustainable future of learning.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pipop Udon, the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs at Thammasat University, stated that the agreement has enabled Thammasat to incorporate courses from SCB Academy and Google into the curriculum for students who can choose to enroll in these courses at any time through the online system. Upon completion of the courses, students will receive an E-Certification. There is a Credit Bank system where students can accumulate credits to further their current studies. It will help students avoid having to take certain courses and allow them to fasten upon their studies.

“In today’s learning, we refer to it as ‘Anywhere, Anytime, Any Devices,’ which means that we can learn whenever, wherever, and through any device. This allows students to not necessarily attend physical classrooms, but instead choose to learn online.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pipop further emphasized that Thammasat University’s direction focuses on lifelong learning and recognizes the increasing importance of online education. The university’s response is not limited to its own students but extends to various groups, including high school students who will become future university students, working adults, and especially in the future as we move towards an increasingly aging society. It becomes a crucial responsibility of the university to address lifelong education or Life Long Learning.

Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, the Rector of Thammasat University, reinforced that the signing of this agreement will further establish Thammasat University as one of the pioneering institutions to collaborate on curriculum development with leading national entities such as SCB Academy and globally recognized organizations like Google. Moreover, it will be among the first universities to implement a Credit Bank system, enabling online learning not just to conclude after completion but to allow E-Certificates received to be credited towards further education within the university. This is believed to set a precedent for other universities in Thailand to develop their teaching and learning systems to meet the demands of future learning worldwide.

As a university student, you can attend classes to earn credits or further enhance your knowledge and skills at https://learning.kaorag.com/. For those who are interested, you can also attend classes at https://pmdacademy.teachable.com/.

“Let’s Call a Day” by Phanuwat Chansiri, Punyaporn Yanpanya, and Panwassa Wongcharoen, a team of fourth-year students in Textile and Fashion Design, majoring in Fashion Design, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Thammasat University, has won the championship award in the fashion design competition with Yamaha motorcycles at the YAMAHA Best Automatic Fashion Festival 2024, under the theme of Fashion Ride On, inspired by Yamaha motorcycles, the Grand Filano Hybrid and Fazzio models, in designing real wearable fashion outfits. The event took place on February 4, 2024, at Siam Square.

Panwassa Wongcharoen speaks about her inspiration behind the design, which is derived from Camping Hangout. It is a lifestyle passionated by office workers who enjoy socializing together after work. The clothing design is interestingly minimalistic. Therefore, the design is collided with a leisurely ride on the YAMAHA Fazzio motorcycle. The clothing is made from Ripstop Nylon and Cotton fabrics, with additional backpack accessories. The color selection is based on the Mood Board, combining with the colors of the YAMAHA Fazzio motorcycle that draws inspiration from Touring Fashion. The result is the creation of “Let’s Call a Day”.

Phanuwat Chansiri emphasizes that in this competition, his team has applied and adapted the knowledge from fashion design class to design and customize the most suitable motorcycle riding suits. This includes selecting color tones that match the motorcycle, as well as choosing fabrics that are suitable for practical use.

“Our team encountered problems regarding the discrepancy between the colors of the fabrics we designed in the program and the colors of the fabrics from the store. We then solved the problem on a case-by-case basis by comparing the closest matching colors and matching them with other colors. Fortunately, we were able to manage this issue in a timely manner.” – Punyaporn Yanpanya.

Panwassa Wongcharoen ends her interview with a remark to all the new generation, “Opportunities are there for everyone, depending on whether you seize them and act. Once you take it, you must strive for the best.”

Kanokporn Thammawong, a first-year student majoring in Textile and Fashion Design, Fashion Design, has also won an honorable mention in the fashion design competition with Yamaha Automatic Motorcycles.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nartnirun Junngam, a faculty lecturer of the Faculty of Law at Thammasat University and the recipient of the National Outstanding Researcher Award Fiscal Year 2024 in the field of law, revealed that the research is related to international law, which is not an inapplicable matter. This is because Thailand and other nations are subject to jurisdiction of international law. The country plays a role as a direct participant involved in the implementation of the law.

The research includes topics related to both Thailand and international communities such as 1. Relationship between territorial division, self-determination of the people, and international legal recognition, considering the case of three southern border provinces of Thailand, 2. Lessons and recommendations from the case of Walter Bau v. Thailand, the first investment treaty case involving Thailand, 3. Interpretation and application of national treatment standards in international investment law, 4. The role of stability in international investment law, and 5. Interpretation and application of full protection and security standards in international investment law.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nartnirun added that the ongoing research is related to the elimination of discriminatory practices in international investment law. The study focuses on a provision commonly found in investment treaties, which deals with the treatment of similar situations. This provision will have implications on the legal consideration of a state’s conduct towards one foreign investment compared to another.

In conducting research, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nartnirun has expressed his opinion that researchers should consider the quality and the benefits that will arise and be well-accepted in general. The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) has placed great importance on this matter. As for the quality of the research, it can be preliminarily assessed based on the research methodology and the publication. The point of research publication is to make it accessible and verifiable, and to be implemented for research purposes. As for the benefits, research is different in its categories. When considering the benefits that will arise from each piece, one must consider the nature of the research, including what category it is and how it can bring benefits to the academic or professional field, or both.

“The research that I am conducting is something that I am truly interested in. As for the rewards, recognition, and acceptance, I see them as potential outcomes. One thing I believe is that if we conduct research on a topic that interests us, we will enjoy it along with gaining knowledge. I would like others to consider our findings. For me, my research project has been used for teaching and published internationally, regardless of whether it received research funding or not.” – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nartnirun