Due to flooding in the southern region of Thailand during the past month, many residents experienced shortages of essential supplies in the area. Subsequently, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) opened a donation center for essential items to be distributed to the Great Flooding Area. On 17 December 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khajornsak Sitthi, Director of the Office of Educational Services, distributed donated items to STOU students and community leaders in three southern border provinces of Thailand through Thailand Post delivery services.
On December 22, 2024, a merit-making ceremony was held at Wichit Phakee Sathan to commemorate the 1st anniversary of the passing of Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an, the Founding President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU). The ceremony was co-organized by the Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an Foundation, the Thai Association for Cooperative Education (TACE), the Association for Institutional Research and Higher Education Development (AIRHED), and the Sukhothai Thammathirat Association under the Patronage of H.R.H. Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, including the School of Nursing of STOU. During the ceremony, honorary plaques were presented to recognize the beneficial contributions to society made by Nursing Alumni.
In 1980, STOU successfully established the School of Health Sciences, which was considered a challenging field for practical training in distance education. Afterward, in the 2005 academic year, the University Council approved the establishment of the School of Nursing and admitted its first batch of Master of Nursing Science students.
The success of the distance learning program in nursing science is attributed to the unwavering support of nursing experts since its inception. In recognition of their exceptional contributions, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tong-In Wongsothorn, President of the Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an Foundation, presented honorary plaques to 10 distinguished Nursing Alumni who have significantly benefited society and possess exemplary qualifications.
Nursing Alumni who received Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an Foundation’s honorary plaques
1. Mrs. Jaroonsri Panyadee, Director of Na Bua Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Udon Thani
STOU education background: Bachelor of Nursing Science Program of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2004
Awards:
1. Valuable Person for National Health Security, NHSO Health Region 8 of 2009
2. Outstanding Civil Servant (Golden Garuda) Award of 2012
3. Outstanding Nurse Petch Kasalong Award of 2012
4. Outstanding Public Health Administrator with Distinguished Merit Award of 2018
5. Outstanding Personnel (Good Person of Primary Care) Regional Level, Nursing Category of 2014
2.Mrs. Jidapa Rodphothong, Head of Surgery and Anesthesia Nursing Department, Pak Kret Hospital, Nonthaburi
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2016
Award:
Role Model of the Year in Outstanding Medical and Public Health Category of 2019
3. Mrs. Pranee Mahapoonpiti, Head Nurse, Tha Yang Hospital, Phetchaburi
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2016
Awards:
1. Outstanding Civil Servant, Phetchaburi Provincial Public Health Office of 2019
2. Honorary Pin Class 4 for Volunteer Spirit and Dedication to Emergency Medical Services from National Institute for Emergency Medicine
3. Quality Person in Administration, Kaeng Krachan Hospital of 2021
4. Outstanding Person Award “Think Good, Do Good, Be Happy” from Tha Yang Hospital Ethics Club of 2023
4. Mrs. Piyanat Neamtanom, Director of Nong Phak Bung Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Phetchabun
STOU education background: Bachelor of Nursing Science Program in 2006 and Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2020
Awards:
Honorary Award for TO BE NUMBER ONE Community Leader from Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi of 2024
5. Mr. Fa-is Walohtae, Faculty Member, Faculty of Nursing, Princess of Naradhiwas University
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2021
Awards:
1. Outstanding Nurse, Smart Nurse Category from Phuket Nurses Club of 2018
2. “Value of the Land” Award, Individual Category from Council of Social Benefactors of Thailand of 2021
3. “Top Volunteer Award 2021” from Social Activity Consulting Center of 2021
4. Outstanding Teacher in Research, Academic Year 2024 on National Nurses Day, Faculty of Nursing, Princess of Naradhiwas University
6. Mr. Pakpoom Saiyud,Director of Ban Ku Sot Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Sisaket Province
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2022
Awards:
1. Good Person of Epidemiology in Community Surveillance from Disease Prevention and Control Office 7 of 2014
2. Outstanding Nurse in Primary Care/Community Health Service System, Sisaket Province of 2014
3. Outstanding National Public Service Innovation Award (Excellence Award) from OPDC of 2017
4. President of Thailand Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital Nurses Association of 2016 – 2022
5. Thailand Nursing Council Committee Member of 2018 – 2022
7. Mrs. Rusamee Luechai,Head Nurse, Rong Kham Hospital, Kalasin
STOU education background: Bachelor of Nursing Science Program in 1995 and Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2016
Awards:
1. Outstanding Nurse, Kalasin of 2010
2. Good Person of Public Health, Kalasin of 2015
3. Outstanding Nurse of Ministry of Public Health, Princess Bunchiradhorn (Jumbala) Chudadhuj Scholarship of 2016
4. Outstanding Care Manager, Ministry of Public Health, 2020
8. Mrs. Ladawan Chanchang, Head of PUI Ward and Head of Nursing Research and Development, Trat Hospital
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2014
Awards:
1. Good Person of Trat Hospital of 2024
2. Outstanding Nurse in Nursing Service, Research and Development, Nursing Administration Category from Nurses Association of Thailand, Eastern Branch of 2024
9. Mr. Suphathagoon Koedkieo, Professional Nurse, Academic Support and Service Group, Wichian Buri District Public Health Office, Phetchabun
STOU education background: Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2022
Awards:
1. Valuable Quality Personnel of Phetchabun Provincial Public Health Office of 2023
2. Outstanding Personnel in Professional Nursing Category, Wichian Buri District Public Health Office of 2024
3. Outstanding Nurse in Primary Care Practice 2024, Nursing Service Development Network, Health Region 2
4. First Prize in Academic Work Contest, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Category, Thailand Public Health Club Academic Conference of 2023
10. Mrs. Suchinda Kongneam, Head of Family Practice Department, Khok Lo Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Trang
STOU education background: Bachelor of Nursing Science Program and Master of Nursing Science of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 2005
Awards:
1. Outstanding Civil Servant (Golden Garuda) Award of 1995
2. Outstanding Public Health Personnel, Health Station Category and Ethics Category, Trang Provincial Public Health Office of 2015
3. Outstanding Care Manager, Provincial Level from Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health of 2023
The event concluded with a panel discussion on “The Sustainable Operations of the Four Organizations,” aiming to explore strategies for ensuring the long-term success of each organization and fulfilling the enduring legacy of Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an.
On 9 December 2024, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led a university delegation to donate 6,000 bottles of drinking water to the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television (TV5), which would be distributed to the Great Flooding Area in the South of Thailand.
In addition, the STOU’s Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center – Phetchaburi and groups distributed a huge donation of essential items to the Special Forces Training Company, which would be another channel to distribute to the Great Flooding Area
From 19-23 November 2024, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Member of the University Council and Acting President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led a delegation of researchers and staff to the 2024 OU5 Meeting in Manila, Philippines, hosted by the University of the Philippines Open University.
The purpose of the meeting was to foster collaboration among the five ASEAN open universities (known as OU5) in the areas of distance learning and research. The member universities include Hanoi Open University (HOU), Vietnam; Open University Malaysia (OUM), Malaysia; University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), Philippines; Universitas Terbuka (UT), Indonesia; and Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU). The host institution for the meeting rotates among the member institutions.
The researchers from STOU who attended this year meeting were Assoc. Prof. Gan Chanyawudhiwan (Office of Educational Technology), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pithak Srisuksai (School of Economics), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anothai Ngamvichaikit (School of Management Science), Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu (School of Liberal Arts), and Dr. Supamas Chumkaew (Office of Registration, Records and Evaluation.
The 2024 OU5 researches include the following topics:
Technology Trends in Education: Nano Learning, Authentic Online Assessment, Gamification, Blockchain and Others (and How AI Will Impact These Technologies)
Open University Infrastructure for a Sustainable Future: A Design in View of Fulfillment of SDG 11
Roles of ASEAN Open Universities in Enhancing Entrepreneurship and Global Presence
Roles of Open Universities in STEM Education (Way Forward with a Focus on the State of Gender Equality in ASEAN)
Student-Lecturer Ratio as a Parameter of Quality in OFDL Context (What Are the Factors that Determine the Quality of Open Universities?)
The meeting was attended by 35 participants, including Presidents, OU5 coordinators, and researchers from the five universities. The 2025 meetings are scheduled for April in Penang, Malaysia, and October in Phuket, Thailand.
On 19-22 November 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narathip Sriram, Acting Vice President for Education, Learning Support, and Research, Asst. Prof. Janenarong Tiensawang, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Parichat Dittakit, Director of the Department of Rajamangalaphisek Education Park, attended the ASAIHL Conference on “University’s Role in Advancing Climate Crises Reduction” in Surabaya, Indonesia, hosted by Universitas Airlangga.
Country reports were presented during the conference, including:
“The Pentahelic Model of Community Service to Mitigate the Effects of Climate Change on Marginalized Rural Communities” (Indonesia)
“Sustainability Studies in Thailand Higher Education: From Objectives to Program Structure” (Thailand)
“Regional Hub for Climate Crises and Natural Disaster Research and Education” (Iran)
“Shaping Climate Education for the Futures: IIUM’s Communiversity and Usrah in Action Models” (Malaysia)
“Philippine HEIs Role in Advancing Climate Change Adaptation” (Philippines)
“Global warming in Japan and emergency transportation of elderly people due to heatstroke” (Japan)
“Universities, industrial TVET, and the climate change: can lessons be learned from COVID?” (France)
“AI and Satellite Remote Sensing: The State-of-the-art Technology to Map the Most Abundant Atmospheric Greenhouse Gas – Water Vapor” (Hong Kong)
The purpose of the ASAIHL conference is to support member institutions in strengthening and collaborating with each other, exchanging knowledge and experiences on an international level in teaching and research, and fostering relationships between member institutions and regional and international organizations. The ASAIHL conference also provides a platform for academics and faculty to present their research on an international stage.
From 24-25 October 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Cultural Preservation, and International Affairs and Mrs. Rattip Phukkeson, Head of International Development Unit, Acting Director of the Department of International Affairs, attended “2024 Digital Transformation and Lifelong Learning International Conference” in Shanghai, China. The conference was co-hosted by Shanghai Open University, UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning, and UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education.
The purpose of this conference was to share best practices in cross-cultural education, cross-border education, and research on the digital transformation of education and lifelong learning, to offer opportunities for collaboration, and to participate in international cooperation in research on the digital transformation of education and lifelong learning research.
On this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan participated in the exchange of experiences and perspectives in the “Global Network for Digitalization in Lifelong Learning Meeting” with executives from various countries and represented the Global Network for Digitalization in Lifelong Learning in discussing future trends of the global network in the closing ceremony.
On 13-15 November 2024, project managers for the New Generation Graduate Program 2024 in Carbon Footprint Assessment and Sustainable Industrial Waste Management Innovations have presented the students’ project at the Environmental and Waste Management Expo 2024 (EnwastExpo) at IMPACT Arena Hall 5-6, Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the event at the main stage of EnwastExpo and presented the plaque for the award of excellence. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Warankgkana Chankong, Dean of School of Health Science, led the Panel Discussion, which included Asst. Prof. Dr. Pavin Chinachoti, Dean of the School of Management Science, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Poom Juasiripukdee, Dean of the School of Science and Technology.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the workshop
Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the Department of Corrections, recently held a workshop on “Technical and Library Services Management” training by STOU’s Office of Documentation and Information for inmates in the Minburi Special Prison on 25 – 29 November 2024. On this Occasion, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the workshop.
The workshop aimed to make the prison library a source of knowledge services in various fields for staff and inmates, utilizing the standards of the “Prompanya Library” which was bestowed its name by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
On 26 November 2024, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held the 14th STOU National Research Conference. The conference is organized virtually via Facebook Live and Microsoft Teams.
The conference aimed to support and disseminate the research work of graduate students, researchers, and academics to the public through research presentation platforms at national research conferences as well as provide opportunities for graduate students, researchers, and academics to exchange and learn about research advancements in various fields.
Currently, STOU provides graduate programs across 12 Schools and enrolls over 2,000 students per semester.
This conference featured key activities including a special lecture on “AI: Opportunities and Challenges in Future Education and Research” by Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khlaisang, Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, and Dr. Prachya Boonkwan, a leading researcher at the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC) in Thailand, as well as research and awards presentation.
There were a total of 198 presented articles in the conference, divided into the following categories:
Humanities and Social Science: 37 articles
Health Science: 11 articles
Science and Technology: 150 articles
All presented works were reviewed by external and internal experts, among them were faculty members from STOU serving as editorial board members, to ensure the quality of the articles.
There were 14 thesis/dissertation works that received the awards:
Social Science Category:
2 Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Awards
2 Excellent Thesis Awards
Health Science Category:
5 Excellent Thesis Awards
5 Good Thesis Awards
Social Science Category
2 Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Awards
🌟 Title: Health Communication Via Social Media to Reduce Sugar Consumption in the Prevention of NCDs Among Working Women
Author: Kanokpong Muangsri, School of Communication Arts
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wittayatorn Tokeaw
🌟 Title: Communication Management for Collaborative Networking of the Office of Election Commissioner of Thailand
Author: Miss Patcharin Rattanawipa, School of Communication Arts
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wittayatorn Tokeaw
2 Excellent Thesis Awards
🌟 Title: Learning Experiences for Money Saving of Grade 4-6 Students at Ban Nong Lang School in Surin Provin
Author: Mrs. Jantaraniwat Visitsil, School of Educational Studies
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Niranart Sansa
🌟 Title: The Effect of Using Communicative Language Teaching Instruction Integrated with the Flowchart Technique in English Grammar Ability on Grade 9 Students at Schools Under the Secondary Educational Service Area Office, Chonburi-Rayong
Author: Mr. Saharat Laksanasut, School of Educational Studies
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. Wannaprapha Suksawas
Health Science Category
5 Excellent Thesis Awards
🌟 Title: Effectiveness of Promoting the Healing Process of Diabetic Ulcers with Curcumin Gauzes in Lopburi Province
Author: Pramuan Sribular, School of Nursing
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mukda Nuysri
🌟 Title: The Effectiveness of a Fall Prevention Program for Older Adults at Risk in Community, Mueang Yasothon District, Yasothon Province
Author: Mrs. Chunyarus Soonthara, School of Nursing
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutteeporn Moolsart
🌟 Title: Effects of Self-management Support Program on Post-COVID-19Conditions Prevention at Banlad District, Phetchaburi Province
Author: Miss Supranee Promsukhan, School of Nursing
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. Napaphen Jantacumma
🌟 Title: The Development of an Empowering Self-management Model for Early Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients at Thanyaburi Hospital, Pathum Thani Province Author: Mrs. Sasipa Arisariyawong, School of Nursing
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aree Cheevakasemsook
🌟 Title: Effects of Thermal, Acidic, and Enzymatic Extraction Methods on the Physicochemical, Microbiological, and Sensory Properties of Longkong Syrup
Author: Mr. Sipanon Chaykaew, School of Human Ecology
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sornchai Sinsuwan
5 Good Thesis Awards
🌟 Title: The Effectiveness of an Enhancing Motivation Program via Smart Classroom in Weight Reduction of Nursing Students with Over Body Mass Index
Author: Mr. Boonchai Phalakan, School of Nursing
Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutteeporn Moolsart
🌟 Title: Effects of a Health Literacy Enhancing Program for Older People with Knee Osteoarthritis at Phen District, Udon Thani Province
Author: Mr. Wachara Sannong, from School of Nursing
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Major Dr. Napaphen Jantacumma
🌟 Title: Workplace Violence and Workplace Violence Prevention Guidelines for Professional Nurses at a Tertiary Hospital
Author: Mrs. Isara Srithon, School of Nursing
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. Premruetai Noimuenwai
🌟 Title: A Care Management Model to Prevent Falls among Patients with Disabilities in a Ward at the Veterans General Hospital
Author: Miss Wongkea Mooseeton, School of Nursing
Advisor: Asst. Prof. Dr. Kanjana Srisawad
🌟 Title: A Research Competency Development Model for Nursing Administrators from Detudom Crown Prince Hospital, Ubon Rathchathani
Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) recently hosted a seminar titled “Transforming Thai Education: Technology, Opportunities, and the Future of Learning” on 26 November 2024. The event featured a diverse panel of speakers from various sectors, including government official, industry expert, academic leader, and a former student, to discuss the transformative potential of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in shaping the future of education.
(From left) Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narathip Sriram, Acting Vice-President for Education, Learning Support, and Research, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, Asst. Prof. Dr. Akadet Manoleehagul, Acting Vice-President for Legal Affairs, Human Resources, and University Council AffairsAsst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda
Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, emphasized the university’s commitment to becoming a digital university. STOU aims to integrate technology seamlessly into its distance learning programs, offering flexible and accessible education to learners across the globe. The university’s suite of digital platforms, including e-Learning, e-Book, e-Media, e-Channel, and e-Library, provides a comprehensive online learning environment.
STOU’s undergraduate programs offer three flexible learning formats to cater to diverse student needs:
Study Plan A: For time-constrained learners, focusing on self-paced learning and final exams.
Study Plan B: For weekend learners, combining intensive tutoring sessions with a mix of coursework and exams.
Study Plan C: For weekend learners who prefer a more interactive approach, involving coursework, exams, and class discussions.
STOU e-Learning STOU Library
Additionally, STOU offers a wide range of educational programs at graduate levels, which focus on developing academic excellence and research, with close faculty guidance through doctoral dissertations, theses, or independent studies. Students can enhance their knowledge through supplementary seminars, intensive seminars, and workshops.
STOU also caters to the needs of modern learners, offering a variety of courses for students, professionals, and the general public. These courses range from short courses and certificates to advanced degrees, providing opportunities for individuals to develop knowledge, professional skills, or upgrade their personal capabilities.
Tutoring SessionProfessional Experience Activity
Mr. Panpermsak Arunee from the Office of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, underscored the need for Thai universities to adapt to the evolving needs of the country and the world. The Ministry’s 20-year National Strategic Plan focuses on addressing the Super Aging Society and promoting non-degree learning to support individual development. This transformation aims to make Thai education more responsive to current challenges.
Mr. Pongsuk Hiranprueck, an IT expert and founder of Beartai, highlighted the profound impact of AI on various aspects of life, including education. While acknowledging the potential benefits of AI, he stressed the importance of responsible AI use. Overreliance on AI or neglecting data privacy concerns could hinder its potential to drive positive change.
Mr. Panpermsak AruneeMr. Pongsuk Hiranprueck
Lawyer Paisarn Ruangrit, a STOU alumnus and Ph.D. candidate, emphasized that AI is a tool, not a substitute for human intelligence and empathy. While AI can significantly enhance learning processes, it should remain under human control. Cultivating moral values and ethics in learners remains a crucial role for educators.
Lawyer Paisarn Ruangrit
STOU’s commitment to innovation and accessibility is evident in its efforts to provide high-quality distance education. With a network of Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Centers and provincial educational service units, STOU ensures that learners receive the support they need.
The seminar on “Transforming Thai Education” showcased STOU’s vision for the future of education. By embracing technology and AI, STOU is poised to lead the way in creating a more inclusive, flexible, and effective learning experience for learners of all backgrounds.
