Born To Be Wild

Author: zomchay

  • Academic Forum on Digital University: Political Science and the Changing Classroom

    Academic Forum on Digital University: Political Science and the Changing Classroom

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) hosted an academic forum titled “Digital University: Political Science and the Changing Classroom,” organized by the School of Political Science. The forum aimed to reflect on
    how political science education has adapted to the digital age, where technology plays a crucial role in education.

    The event was held to coincide with STOU’s 47th anniversary on 5 September 2025. It provided a platform for both senior and junior faculty members to exchange perspectives and experiences. The discussion covered the impact of technology on political science education, which is no longer confined to traditional classrooms but has expanded into a borderless virtual learning space.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Somprin Niyomthai, Dean of School of Political Science, presided over the opening. In his address,
    he emphasized the importance of the forum, stating, “Today’s event is incredibly meaningful because we have invited both senior and junior faculty members to share their views. This will serve as a ‘bridge’ between accumulated wisdom and experience and the creative energy and innovation of modern learning.”

    The forum featured distinguished speakers, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jumpol Nimpanich, Asst. Prof. Dr. Thawee Surarittikul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuttaporn Issarachai, Mr. Witsathon Leesirakiadtikun, and Mr. Vasuchon Rakprachathai. The forum urged its participants and speakers to ask questions and provide suggestions, which will be valuable for the future development of political science teaching and learning.

  • Research Awards Ceremony 2025

    Research Awards Ceremony 2025

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized the Research Awards Ceremony 2025,
    which was held by the Institute for Research and Development at Parichart Pavilion, In celebration of the 47th anniversary of STOU on 5 September 2025.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the ceremony. The Research Awards Ceremony is an annual event held to promote and foster a research atmosphere within the university. It also aims to encourage faculty and staff to produce high-quality research.

    This year’s awards recognize 14 research projects. The Excellent Research Awards 2025 were granted to 2 research projects, while The other 12 research projects were granted Good Research Awards 2025.

    Excellent Research Awards 2025 

    Category: Distance Education

    1. Title: Innovative Learning System Based on Gamification to Enhance Digital Creativity of Higher Education Students in Distance Learning System

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Phantipa Amornrit and team

    Category: Institutional Research

    2.Title: The Quality Comparison Study of 5 Choice and 4 Choice Tests

    Researcher: Dr. Sarhistthep Sukkaew and team

    Good Research Awards 2025

    Category: Academic, Social and National Development and Distance Education

    1. Title: The Development Program of Digital Literacy and Psychological Well-Being for Early Adolescent

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Pisutthipa Metheekul

    2. Title: The computational study in the flow past a rotating isolated cylinder at high Reynolds number

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sitthichai Ruchayosyothin

    3. Title: Developing 3D models of fossils found in Thailand using photogrammetry

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Suchart Saenpich and team

    4. Title: Food Delivery Business on Digital Platforms and Public Interest and Consumer Protection in Thailand

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Keovalin Torpanyacharn and team

    5. Title: Enhancement of Legal Measures for Support the Utilization and Strengthening of the Research and Innovation Ecosystem of Educational Institutions

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Walaiwan Mathurotpreechakun and team

    6. Title: A Development of Ubiquitous Learning Model to Enhance Creativity and Innovation Skills by Using Wisdom Knowledge Base for Local Innovators

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanathnuth Chatpakkarattana and team

    7. Title: Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University’s English Proficiency Test

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sukolrat Ingchatcharoen

    8. Title: Collaborative Governance for Promoting Decentralization in Conflict Solution and Interests Use of National Park Area for Community-Based Ecotourism Management: Case Study of Chiang Mai Province

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Noppon Akahat

    9. Title: Development of Competency Based Learning Model for Distance Education in Post Covid-19 Era: A Case Study of Sustainable Manufacturing System and Circular Economy

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supawadee Theerathammakorn and team

    10. Title: Development  Guideline International Agricultural Extension and Development Program through Distance Learning

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalermsak Toomhirun and team

    11. Title: Development of Measurement Model of Undergraduate Students’ Readiness for Online Testing in Open System Distance Higher Education Institutions

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr.Thanyasinee Laosum  

    Category: Institutional Research

    12. Title: Information System on Research Output and Innovation of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University

    Researcher: Mr. Suradet Athikom

  • STOU Green Day 2025

    STOU Green Day 2025

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held an event to celebrate its 47th anniversary, which fell on 5 September 2025. The STOU Department of International Affairs collaborated with both internal and external organizations—including Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Thailand Environment Institute Foundation (TEI), Office of Continuing Education, Office of Documentation and Information, Office of the University Press, Institute for Research and Development, Buildings and Grounds Division and  Department of Rajamangalaphisek Education Park. STOU Green Day 2025 was held at Parichart Pavilion.          

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the event, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Affairs, delivered the report. This event welcomed a number of participants, including STOU executives and staff, teachers and students from nearby elementary schools, and the general public, who joined activities
    to promote environmental awareness.

    STOU has a policy of becoming a sustainable university through various initiatives, such as reducing electricity consumption, improving waste management, conducting research on sustainability, and participating in the UI GreenMetric World University rankings to become a more environmentally conscious institution.

    The “STOU Green Day 2025” event aimed to help staff and the public gain knowledge and understanding of how to use resources efficiently and apply the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—in their daily lives and work. The event featured many interesting activities, including a panel discussion titled “STOU’s Journey Towards a Green University: Lessons and Inspiration from Network Partners.” There were also numerous activity booths and the Research Awards Ceremony 2025 organized by the Institute for Research and Development.

  • The 2nd Workshop on Designing with Waste for Environmental Value

    The 2nd Workshop on Designing with Waste for Environmental Value

    On 19 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) by The Office of Documentation and Information, organized The 2nd Workshop on “Designing with Waste for Environmental Value.” This academic outreach project was held at the STOU Library and Learning Center. The event aimed to promote sustainable practices and foster a deeper understanding of eco-design and upcycling.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Cultural Preservation, and International Affairs, presided over the opening ceremony. The event also featured insights from Mr. Teerachai Suppameteekulwat,
    the designer and CEO of Qualy, along with administrators from Thai Packaging Industry PCL and STOU librarians, who shared their expertise and experiences. Asst. Prof. Krittika Jiwaluk, Director of the Office of Documentation
    and Information, delivered the welcoming speech.

    Participants were given a tour of the STOU Library and Learning Center, exploring its various service areas. The project welcomed over 75 attendees from government agencies, the private sector, and the general public. The core objective of this initiative was to enhance knowledge, understanding, and skills in Eco Design and Upcycling. By applying the 4R
    principles – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repair – the project aimed to:

    • Minimize waste generation
    • Create added-value products from discarded materials
    • Promote efficient resource utilization, and
    • Reduce environmental impact

    Furthermore, the project provided local communities and entrepreneurs with creative waste management strategies, offering opportunities for income generation and sustainable economic development in their areas.

    This initiative reinforces STOU’s commitment to being a learning center focused on sustainable development across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The project not only raises awareness about waste and leftover materials in Nonthaburi Province but also serves as a model for collaboration between the university, government agencies, the private sector, and the public. This collaborative effort is crucial in driving Thai society towards true balance and sustainability.

  • STOU Prepares Disability Student for Study Plan A2

    STOU Prepares Disability Student for Study Plan A2

    Dr. Apisit Thaoyabut, Deputy Director of Office of Educational Services

    On 19 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized a workshop on “Technology to Enhance Learning Potential and Advance towards Study Plan A2 for Students with Disabilities.” The event was opened by Dr. Apisit Thaoyabut, Deputy Director of the Office of Educational Services. Among 30 participants were self-reliant disabled students and their caregivers.

    STOU implemented Study Plan A2 and A3 as additional options for undergraduate students in the past 2-3 years. It has been found that the number of students registering for courses under Study Plan A2 or A3 has significantly increased. This is because these two study plans have a scoring system with up to 40% of complementary classes and collaborative learning activity.

    This workshop helped enhancing participants’ knowledge, skills, and ability to use various tools and equipment, such as smartphones, computers, laptops, and operating systems. These are essential tools for accessing online supplementary lessons via Microsoft Teams, online learning materials, and submitting assignments through the e-Learning system, a crucial component of the university’s Study Plan A2.

    STOU has the highest number of disability students among the universities in Thailand through the STOU Distance Learning System, which is not confined to traditional classrooms. STOU registers almost 500 disability students in each academic year, but only 20 – 30 are able to graduate. STOU operates Disabilities Support Services (DSS Center) to support disability people and also those interested in studying with STOU.

  • STOU organized workshop on “Developing of Online Teaching and Learning Management”

    STOU organized workshop on “Developing of Online Teaching and Learning Management”

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Seksan Amatmontree,
     Director of the Office of Educational Technology
    Mr. Pitsanu Deddai, Director of Triamudomsuksa Pattanakarn Pathumthani School

    On 17 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held the 2nd workshop on “Developing of Online Teaching and Learning Management” for teachers from Triamudomsuksa Pattanakarn Pathumthani School. This event
    was a part of the academic partnership between the two institutions, which aims to improve teaching and learning management and educational media with up-to-date technology.

    During the workshop, Asst. Prof. Dr. Seksan Amatmontree, Director of the Office of Educational Technology, led a team of experts to provide training on the Moodle course management system. Mr. Pitsanu Deddai, Director of Triamudomsuksa Pattanakarn Pathumthani School, also participated in the event. After the training, certificates were awarded to the participating teachers at Triamudomsuksa Pattanakarn Pathumthani School.

    The various collaborative activities held by the two institutions, based on their signed agreement, are important starting points for advancing educational knowledge. This collaboration serves as a model for bridging the gap between secondary and higher education, preparing Thai youth for a secure and high-quality future.

  • STOU donates orphan waste to EGAT

    STOU donates orphan waste to EGAT

    On 25 July 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Acting Director of the Department of International Affairs, delivered “orphan waste” collected from staff, students, alumni, and the public to
    the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) Headquarters.

    This was a mobile orphan waste activity organized by Mr. Somboon Kittianong, a representative for waste management through grinding to create a coal substitute fuel. Representatives from EGAT’s Resource Management and Administration Department accepted the donation.

    “Orphan waste” refers to garbage that cannot be recycled or sold for value. Examples include scraps of cloth, old clothes, detergent packets, refill pouches for various liquids, mouse pads, desiccant packets, sponges, toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, plastic cream jars and tubes, combs, expired medicine, and other types of waste that can be cut up and used as fuel.
    This waste undergoes a modern technological process to produce high-quality Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF). This RDF can then be used as a substitute for coal in cement factories and waste-to-energy power plants, preventing the waste from being sent to landfills in various provinces.

    This donation activity was held under the “Raising of the transition to World University Rankings: Green University” project, driven by the Department of International Affairs of STOU. The project aims to raise environmental awareness, promote waste separation, and encourage efficient resource utilization.

  • STOU Donation to Umphang Hospital in July

    STOU Donation to Umphang Hospital in July

    On 18 July 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) delivered surplus medicine, medical supplies, adult diapers, underpads, and children’s clothing and shoes to Umphang Hospital. This donation aims to assist and support the medical treatment of people in remote areas.

    Miss Thasita Supatanarungsan, Deputy Dean of the School of Political Scienceand Coordinator for the examination at Umphang Wittayakom School, represented the university in handing over the donated items. Mrs. Nuttanat Wongcharoen, Deputy Director of Umphang Hospital, accepted the donation. The items will be used at Umphang Hospital and distributed to other hospitals with limited budgets.

    This activity is part of the “STOU ready to deliver surplus medicine” project, which falls under the “Raising of the transition to World University Rankings: Green University” project. The Department of International Affairs of STOU drives this initiative in collaboration with the Volunteer Citizen Project of the Thai Volunteer Service Foundation (TVS). TVS was responsible for sorting and preparing the medicine and medical supplies appropriately before delivery.

    Umphang Hospital is a crucial district hospital for the local community of over 94,000 people. Of this number, as many as 44,000 people are not covered by the public healthcare system. This donation, therefore, plays a significant role in both sharing medical resources and promoting efficient medicine use to reduce medicine waste.

    The university would like to extend its gratitude and thanks to all staff, students, alumni, and the public who have shown their faith and contributed to and supported this important mission.

  • STOU Donation in May 2025

    STOU Donation in May 2025

    On 2 May 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) donated new and unused medicines, adult underpads
    (size L-XL), face shields, and student uniforms to Umphang Hospital. The donation aims to assist people in remote areas.

    Mr. Piyatass Sangkhamalai, Head of Printing Section, Office of the University Press  of STOU and the coordinator for
    the university’s exams at Umphang Wittayakom School, represented the university in handing over the donated items.
    Mrs. Nuttanat Wongcharoen, Deputy Director of Umphang Hospital, accepted the donation. All items will be used at Umphang Hospital and distributed to other hospitals with limited budgets.

    This donation is part of the “STOU Ready to Share Unused Medicine” project, which falls under the “Raising Awareness for World University Rankings: Green University” initiative. The initiative is driven by the Department of International Affairs of STOU and supported by the Thai Volunteer Foundation (TVF) as part of its Citizen Volunteer Project, which helped sort and prepare the donated medicines.

    Umphang Hospital is vital to its community, serving as the district’s primary hospital and caring for over 94,000 patients, 44,000 of whom lack health security benefits. The donation will help people and hospitals in Umphang District and surrounding areas. It also ensures that unused medicines are put to good use instead of being discarded or left to expire

    STOU Donation to Home For Handicapped Animals Foundation

    On 13 May 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Relations, along with Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Acting Director of the Department of International Affairs, donated necessary items for the care of animals to
    Mr. Chatpong Deepa, Manager of the Foundation Bang Len Branch.

    Home For Handicapped Animals Foundation Bang Len Branch is located on a 21-rai plot in Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom Province. It currently cares for more than 800 recovering dogs and cats. The foundation is open to the public daily from
    11:00 AM – 5:00 PM for visits, donations, and feeding the handicapped animals snacks. A Dog & Cat Cafe also serves food and drinks on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with all proceeds going to help the sick and handicapped animals at the foundation.

    This donation drive is part of the “Raising Awareness for World University Rankings: Green University” initiative, led by
    the Department of International Affairs of STOU. The drive collected unused items such as towels, bed sheets, newspapers, and umbrellas, as well as essential supplies for the animals. These included canned food, wet food, and pouch food for cats; dry food for dogs and cats; dish soap; mosquito coils; underpads; diapers; and food trays.

    The project not only highlights the waste-sorting awareness of the executives, staff, students, alumni of STOU, and
    the general public but also promotes the reuse of unused items to their full potential. This helps reduce production costs, benefits the environment, and supports the care of handicapped animals, improving their quality of life.

  • STOU Executives Join OUM’s 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Malaysia

    STOU Executives Join OUM’s 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Malaysia

    On 9 August 2025, a delegation of executives from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) attended the OUM’s 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Malaysia at the invitation of Open University Malaysia (OUM).

    The STOU representatives included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Affairs; Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Acting Director of the Office of International Affairs; and Mrs. Rattip Phukkeson, Head of the Internationalization Development Unit.

    The event celebrated the 25th anniversary of Open University Malaysia. The attendance of the STOU delegation served to strengthen the close and long-standing relationship between the two universities.