Born To Be Wild

Author: zomchay

  • STOU and HCU Sign Academic Cooperation Agreement to Elevate Health Education

    STOU and HCU Sign Academic Cooperation Agreement to Elevate Health Education

    On 14 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and Huachiew Chalermprakiet University (HCU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance academic collaboration in health-related fields. The signing ceremony took place at HCU Bangphli campus.

    The agreement aims to promote and elevate education, research, and academic services in four key areas: Thai Traditional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Basic Medical Sciences, and Health Sciences. The MOU was signed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uraiphan Jenwanichayanon, President of HCU, and Assistant Professor Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU.
    The ceremony was also witnessed by executives and faculty members from both universities.

    The partnership focuses on developing personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve public health. The collaboration outlines key areas of operation:

    • Instruction and Practical Training: Both universities will jointly develop bachelor’s, graduate, and short-term programs, as well as provide practical training opportunities for students.
    • Research and Academic Services: The universities will collaborate on research and academic service projects related to the four main disciplines.
    • Personnel Development: Faculty members from both institutions will serve as guest speakers, experts, or special lecturers to facilitate knowledge exchange.

    Under the agreement, HCU will provide practical training facilities, equipment, and expert consultation. STOU will support the initiative by providing lecturers and advisors, as well as contributing to the operational costs of certain activities.

    This collaboration marks a significant step for both institutions in strengthening Thailand’s public health system by producing high-quality and skilled professionals.

  • STOU’s “Success to Influencer” Course Wins Thai MOOC Award 2025

    STOU’s “Success to Influencer” Course Wins Thai MOOC Award 2025

    On 5 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) was honored with the 2025 Thai MOOC Award Outstanding Institution for Online Course Development for its “Success to Influencer” course.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Smaksmorn Phakdeetewa, Faculty Member from the Office of Educational Technology, accepted the prestigious award at the 16th TCU International e-Learning Conference 2025 in Bangkok.

    The conference, organized by the Thai Cyber University project under the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, serves as a platform for academics, researchers, and administrators to share knowledge and innovations related to AI-Powered Online Learning Ecosystems. The event also aims to promote Thailand Massive Open Online Course (Thai MOOC) as a tool for lifelong learning. This award confirms STOU’s commitment to developing high-quality online courses that meet the needs of the digital age.

  • STOU assists victims of Thai-Cambodian border clashes

    STOU assists victims of Thai-Cambodian border clashes

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), through its Ubon Ratchathani Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center (STOU Ubon Ratchathani) and alumni network, has been providing aid to those affected by the severe clashes on the Thai-Cambodian border. The conflict, which began on 24 July 2025, has forced over 190,000 people into nearly 800 shelters across four provinces: Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, Surin, and Sisaket.

    On July 31, STOU Ubon Ratchathani, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanapan Tani, Director, delivered essential goods to the Border Patrol Police Sub-division 22 in Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani, and to a refugee center in Sisaket Province. The center has been collecting donations since the clashes began, and has also been coordinating directly with affected students, providing temporary accommodation, food, and other necessities for the one who had to flee with her children.

    On the same day, the STOU Nakhon Ratchasima Alumni Club also contributed to the relief efforts. The club, led by president Patcharee Wiriyapong, donated instant noodles, canned fish, and cookies to the authorities in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, for distribution to affected individuals in Sisaket Province.

    On August 4, STOU Ubon Ratchathani conducted a second aid mission, delivering more donated supplies to officials at the 2nd Infantry Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment in Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani. They also provided aid to victims and staff at the Wat Sirimongkhon and Ban Na Charoen School shelters in Det Udom District, where Dr. Thanapan personally met and spoke with the evacuees.

    STOU extends its gratitude to all donors for their generous support during this crisis.

  • STOU at ICOIE2025 Conference in Hong Kong

    STOU at ICOIE2025 Conference in Hong Kong

    On 8-12 July 2025, Asst. Prof. Dr. Jeeranuch Buddeejeen, Director of the Office of University Press, represented Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) at the 2025 International Conference on Open Innovative Education (ICOIE2025), hosted by Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU).

    HKMU organizes the ICOIE conference annually with the following aims:

    • provide a platform for sharing quality research, effective practices, and well-formulated views relevant to open and innovative education;
    • facilitate networking and cross-institutional collaboration among researchers and educators in fields of educational innovation and/or openness; and
    • promote studies and advancements in open and innovative education.

    The ICOIE2025 Conference featured discussion and knowledge sharing from leaders and experts in the following themes:

    1. Insights from Systematic Reviews: Research and Practice in ODDE and AlEd;
    2. From Access to Impact: Rethinking Digital Transformation in Open Education;
    3. Transdisciplinarity: Knowing for the Future;
    4. Equipping World Ready Graduates: The T-Shaped Student, Work-Integrated Learning, and SoTL as Keys to Success; and
    5. A critical perspective on new trends in higher education and lifelong learning.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Jeeranuch Buddeejeen presented her work titled “Integrating Design Thinking and Project-Based Learning in Competency-Based Education: A Case Study of a Certificate Program in Product Design and Digital Marketing” at the ICOIE2025 Conference The conference details, including the conference publications, are available at the conference website: https://www.hkmu.edu.hk/icoie/.

  • STOU campaigns sustainable waste management with “SUJIT: STOU Volunteer” Project

    STOU campaigns sustainable waste management with “SUJIT: STOU Volunteer” Project

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) is reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility by hosting the 2nd “SUJIT: STOU Volunteer” project. This year’s initiative, held on 24 July 2025, at the Rajamangalaphisek Education Park within the STOU headquarters in Nonthaburi, focuses on waste management to foster a sustainable green society. The event saw a large turnout, including university executives, faculty, staff, network partners, government agencies, private sector organizations, and community members.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Member of the University Council and Acting President, presided over the opening ceremony and actively participated in the day’s events. He emphasized the crucial role of collaborative networks and instilling environmental awareness across all sectors to achieve the goal of a “liveable world through efficient waste management.”

    The “SUJIT: STOU Volunteer ” project, which began in 2024 and received overwhelmingly positive feedback, continues this year with a strong emphasis on waste management.
    This aligns with a significant global agenda and STOU’s dedication to sustainable social and environmental development. The project also aims to enhance the quality of life for the public and cultivate public consciousness. Furthermore, these activities directly support
    the university’s objectives to reduce its environmental impact and improve energy efficiency, key factors in its ranking within the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings.

    The event featured a diverse range of creative activities, made possible through
    the collaboration of 20 internal university departments and external network partners.
    These partners included Phasukmaneejak School, Jutiporn Kindergarten School,
    Department of Lands, Bangkok Land Public Company Limited, Thailand Youth Institute (TYI), and Bang Phut sub-district community in Nonthaburi.

    Highlights of the event included:

    • Musical Performances from “Threet” and Cultural Shows: Adding vibrancy and entertainment for attendees.
    • “Waste Bank” Competition: Encouraging tangible waste segregation and recycling efforts.
    • “Eco-Art DIY” from Plastic Bottles: Demonstrating how to upcycle plastic bottles into useful items and decorations, such as hair clips, headbands, fancy inhaler cases, and pencil sharpeners.
    • Cost-of-Living Reduction Activities for the Public and “Mind-Body-Health Awareness” Activities: Promoting the well-being of the community.
    • Worm Composting for Household Organic Waste Management: Providing knowledge on sustainable waste management through natural methods.
    • Tree Distribution: Increasing green spaces in the community and fostering a healthy environment.

    Through the 2nd SUJIT project, focusing on waste management, STOU underscores its vital role as a higher education institution. It not only prioritizes academic excellence but also demonstrates a steadfast commitment to creating tangible benefits for the community, society, and the environment, working collectively to build a liveable and sustainable world for everyone.

  • STOU and depa Join Forces to Create “Smart City” Personnel, Strengthening Localities Nationwide

    STOU and depa Join Forces to Create “Smart City” Personnel, Strengthening Localities Nationwide

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) have signed a significant academic cooperation agreement. This partnership aims to develop knowledge in “Smart City” concepts and enhance the capabilities of local administrative organization personnel across Thailand, driving the country towards
    a sustainable digital era.

    The signing ceremony officially took place on 9 July 2025, at the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Building A) on Ladprao Soi 10 Road, Bangkok. The agreement was signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Member of the University Council and Acting President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President/CEO of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency. Asst. Prof. Dr. Karn Boonsiri, Dean of the School of Communication Arts at STOU, and Dr. Phasakorn Pratombut, Deputy President/CEO of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency, served as witnesses, alongside executives from both organizations.

    The primary objectives of this collaboration are:

    • Elevating Smart City Knowledge: depa will play a crucial role in enhancing the understanding of Smart City plan development and the creation of City Data Platforms for local administrative organization personnel. This initiative aims to transform local administrative organizations into High-Performance Authorities (HPA), enabling them to effectively utilize digital innovation and technology in urban management.
    • Integrating Knowledge into Society: STOU will support teaching and learning, research, and academic services for society, specifically focusing on developing certificate programs and short-term training courses related to Smart City. These programs will equip government personnel and interested citizens with essential skills and knowledge.

    The synergy between STOU, an educational institution specializing in distance learning, and depa, a key agency promoting the nation’s digital economy, will be a crucial driving force in materializing the government’s Smart City policy. This partnership aims to create livable and sustainable smart cities for everyone in Thailand.

  • STOU reserves and promotes buddhism, arts, and culture during Asanha Bucha and Buddhist Lent 2025

    STOU reserves and promotes buddhism, arts, and culture during Asanha Bucha and Buddhist Lent 2025

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized activities to preserve and promote Buddhism, arts, and culture in celebration of Asanha Bucha Day and Buddhist Lent in 2025. These significant Buddhist holidays fall on 10 and 11 July, respectively. The university’s Arts and Culture Division (Educational Park) of the Office of Continuing Education held the events on 9 July 2025 at Parichart Pavilion and Ho Phra Phut Ming Mongkhon Dhammasathan within the university’s Rajamangalaphisek Education Park.

    The ceremonies were presided over by Assistant Professor Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Member of the University Council and Acting President of STOU. A large number of executives, faculty members, staff from various university departments, as well as students and the general public, participated in the events.

    Key activities included a dry food alms offering to nine Buddhist monks to bring auspiciousness, followed by sacred Buddhist ceremonies. The traditional offering of Lenten candles and rain-bathing robes was also observed, a significant custom during the Buddhist Lent period. A unique and creative aspect of the celebration was the “tree sapling circumambulation” (Wian Tian) around Ho Phra Phut Ming Mongkhon Dhammasathan, where participants offered tree saplings in homage to the Buddha, promoting environmental conservation alongside spiritual merit-making.

    In addition to the activities at the main campus, STOU’s Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Centers across the country also organized events. In Yala, Dr. Saowanit Taweesuntaneenukul, Director of STOU Yala, led staff, alumni, students, and STOU networks in offering Lenten candles at Wat Tha Sap in Mueang District of Yala. Similarly, in Phetchaburi, Ms. Samanan Ngernurd, Director of STOU Phetchaburi, led her team to offer Lenten candles at Wat Khao Bandai It in Mueang District of Phetchaburi.

    These events underscore STOU’s unwavering commitment to continuously promoting and preserving Buddhism, arts, and culture, and fostering community engagement. On this occasion, STOU has also installed “Phra Bhaisajyaguru Vaidurya,” an ancient Khmer art Buddha statue. This statue commemorates Bhaisajyaguru Vaidurya Prabha Tathagata, the Medicine Buddha of Mahayana Buddhism, who is revered for healing both physical and mental ailments and is considered a protector and healer of humanity from suffering.

    The veneration of Bhaisajyaguru has a long history in Thailand, particularly during the reign of King Jayavarman VII of the Khmer Empire (which included parts of present-day Thailand). During this period, “Arokayasala” (hospitals) were established, and Bhaisajyaguru Buddha statues were created to be enshrined in these facilities. Bhaisajyaguru Buddha statues found in Thailand often exhibit the Lopburi art style (Khmer art in Thailand). This particular statue was generously donated to STOU by Phra Kru Wimolchayaporn, the abbot of Wat Bang Krang in Nonthaburi, on 25 June. Other recipients of similar statues include the Ministry of Public Health, Priest Hospital, Thammasat University Hospital, Siriraj Hospital, Ramkhamhaeng University, and Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University. These statues serve as objects of veneration for Buddhists, as well as medical, public health, and nursing personnel, providing spiritual support and relief from the suffering caused by physical and mental illnesses.

  • STOU Press Organizes Academic Outreach Project: “Designing Waste for Environmental Value”

    STOU Press Organizes Academic Outreach Project: “Designing Waste for Environmental Value”

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) Press recently organized an academic service project titled “Designing Waste for Environmental Value.” This initiative aims to promote the concepts of Upcycling and Eco Design, while also encouraging efficient resource utilization and minimizing environmental impact.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Jeeranuch Buddeejin, Director of the Office of University Press
    Mr. Roongroj Boontarak, Managing Director of A. Best Inter Products Co., Ltd.

    The project officially opened with a ceremony presided over by Asst. Prof. Dr. Jeeranuch Buddeejin, Director of the Office of University Press. The event took place in Meeting Room 5209, Seminar Building 1, at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University. The program targeted 60 students from four educational institutions: King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Minburi Technical College, and Kong Thabbok Upatham Changkol Kho So Tho Bo School.

    The project’s activities began with a special lecture by Mr. Roongroj Boontarak, Managing Director of A. Best Inter Products Co., Ltd., on the topic of “Waste Management from Home to Work and Community.” This was followed by a visit to the STOU Press’s waste management exhibition, “STOU Showcase 3R.” In the afternoon, participants had the opportunity to exchange knowledge and skills with experts from Thai Packaging Industry Public Company Limited (TIPAK). The highlight of the event was a product design workshop using waste materials, divided into six groups, with group facilitators providing close guidance.

    This project is more than just a training activity; it’s a vital part of addressing urban waste management within the community. It serves as a crucial link between education, the environment, and the community, reflecting the university’s role in fostering a learning society and promoting sustainable development through practical academic outreach. An additional session of this project is scheduled for entrepreneurs, government officials, and private sector representatives on 19 August 2025, also at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University. For more details, please visit: https://stoupress.stou.ac.th/eco-design-from-waste-to-worth/

  • STOU donates unused items to Phaholpolpayuhasena Hospital

    STOU donates unused items to Phaholpolpayuhasena Hospital

    On 4 July 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 Affairs, along with Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Acting Director of the Department of International Affairs, and Mr. Chananyu Puekprom, Acting Director of the STOU Kanchanaburi Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center, collectively donated unused items to Phaholpolpayuhasena Hospital in Kanchanaburi.

    The donated items included cosmetics, hair styling equipment, wigs, fabric bags, paper bags, children’s face masks, and crutches. Phaholpolpayuhasena Hospital, the main hospital in Kanchanaburi Province, received the donation through Dr. Sutara Hengcharoen, a forensic physician, who accepted the items on behalf of the hospital for distribution to various departments.

    This donation drive is part of the “Building Awareness for UI GreenMetric World University Rankings ” project, spearheaded by STOU’s Department of International Affairs. The initiative aims to promote the concept of efficient resource utilization and sustainable waste management by collecting reusable items. This effort not only reflects the environmental consciousness of STOU’s administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the general public who contributed to the donation, but also extends value for public benefit. Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University extends its gratitude and appreciation to everyone who supported this activity.

  • STOU Political Science Students Gain Professional Experience Through Local Election Analysis

    STOU Political Science Students Gain Professional Experience Through Local Election Analysis

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Thailand and its networks, recently organized an intensive training program designed to enhance the professional experience of its Political Science students. The program featured a seminar titled “The Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) Election on February 1: Strengths, Problems, and Recommendations.”

    Held on 3 July 2025, the seminar aimed to assess the success of the recent PAO election, a crucial step towards developing local governance for the direct benefit of the people and advancing the decentralization process, a key component of Thailand’s democratic system.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Somprin Niyomthai, Dean of the School of Political Science at STOU, presided over the opening ceremony. Ms. Napajaree Jiwanantaprawat, Senior Project Manager at KAS Thailand, delivered the opening remarks, outlining the event’s objectives.

    Key activities included:

    • A summary of a book analyzing the nationwide PAO chief and councilor elections on 1 February 2025, highlighting strengths, problems, and lessons learned for improving local administration. This was presented by Asst. Prof. Patawee Chotanan, a lecturer from the Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University.
    • A panel discussion featuring politicians, including Mr. Sarayut Jailak from the People’s Party, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut from the Bhumjaithai Party, and Mr. Nattawut Saikua, an advisor to the Prime Minister. The discussion was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanasak Saijampha, Faculty Member from STOU’s School of Political Science.
    • A seminar platform for extracting lessons from decentralization in Thailand through the perspectives of academics, civil society, politicians, and the general public. Attendees included faculty members, academics, professionals, and local administrators such as Prof. Emeritus Dr. Tanet Charoenmuang (local politics academic), Asst. Prof. Patawee Chotanan (Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University), Associate Professor Ekkarin Tuansiri (Faculty of Political Science, Prince of Songkla University), Asst. Prof. Dr. Nuttakorn Vititanon (Faculty of Political Science, Chiang Mai University), and Miss Nitchapat Kitcharern (School of Political Science, STOU).

    This seminar provided STOU Political Science students with direct experience, enhanced their knowledge and understanding, and allowed them to contribute their ideas, analyses, and valuable recommendations for the development and improvement of local governance and the country’s decentralization system. Professional experience enhancement training is a vital part of the curriculum for students at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), particularly for fields requiring practical training to develop relevant skills and knowledge. This training aims to prepare students before their professional internships or actual work placements, ensuring they meet quality standards upon graduation.