Thammasat University hosted the South Asia Summit on Education for Peace at UNCC

On March 24, 2025, the Faculty of Social Administration at Thammasat University, in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Council (SDC), proudly hosted the South Asia Summit on Education for Peace at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC) in Bangkok. This significant event brought together esteemed leaders, academics, policymakers, youth advocates, and representatives from 13 countries, all united in the mission to explore the transformative role of education in fostering peace, inclusion, and sustainable development. The summit commenced with a warm welcome address by Mr. Gokulnath Mathiyazhagan, Secretary-General of the SDC, who set an optimistic tone for the event. Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu, Founder Chairman of the SDC, delivered an inspiring keynote address, envisioning a future where education empowers individuals to live harmoniously and embrace diversity. Esteemed speakers included H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to Thailand, who emphasized Morocco’s commitment to peace and education. His Holiness Sriram Charana Aravinda Dasa from ISKCON highlighted the necessity of instilling peace-building efforts at home. Senior Colonel Pisan Amornratananuparp reinforced the importance of regional collaboration in promoting peaceful narratives, while Vice Rector and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dumrong Adunyarittigun of Thammasat University called for the integration of peace education into global curricula. Dr. E. Khalieraaj stressed the importance of preparing youth to navigate the digital world responsibly and ethically. A key feature of the summit was a dynamic panel discussion titled “Education as a Pathway to Peace,”. The discussion included prominent experts such as Dean of Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University Assoc. Prof. Dr. Auschala Chalayonnavin, Dr. Kamaleswaran Jayarajah SEAMOE Secretariate, Dr. MST Umme Habiba Fahmina Karim Mahidol University, and Ajarn Kevin Cook, SPD-Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat. They emphasized the critical role education plays in fostering peacebuilding, cultural understanding, and ethical leadership. Panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Mahesh Chougule, Assistant Professor of Social Policy and Development at Thammasat University. A highlight of the summit was the presentation of the SDC Impact Award for Academics, acknowledging outstanding contributions towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year’s distinguished recipients included: Prof. Dr. R. Mohana Krishnan, SRM Institute of Science and Technology Prof. Dr. J. Clement Sudhahar, Karunya School of Management Prof. Dr. J. Cynthia, Kumaraguru College of Technology Dr. Ganesh K, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology Mr. Panduranga Guptha, Viveka Matriculation School Prof. Ms. Prisana Kumchai, Khon Kean University Dr. Mahesh Chougule, Thammasat University. The commitment of these individuals toward promoting education for peace and sustainable development was celebrated, underscoring their roles as catalysts for positive change. In his closing remarks, Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu concluded with a powerful message: “Education is the most powerful tool we must build peace, bridge divides, and empower generations. Let us commit to making it accessible, inclusive, and transformative for every child, everywhere.” The Faculty of Social Administration extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to the success of this summit. We remain dedicated to promoting educational initiatives that foster peace and development throughout South Asia and beyond. The event was led and coordinated by Asst Prof Dr Mahesh Chougule SPD-Faculty of Social Administration Thammasat University.