Born To Be Wild

Author: zomchay

  • STOU Hosts “Urban Agriculture and Healthy Food for Self-Reliance” Exhibition

    STOU Hosts “Urban Agriculture and Healthy Food for Self-Reliance” Exhibition

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with various network partners, recently organized the exhibition and learning event “Wisdom of Urban Agriculture and Healthy Food for Self-Reliance.” The initiative aims to apply the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy as a practical guide to navigate modern global changes, focusing on household self-reliance and long-term health.

    The event is a result of integrated cooperation between STOU and key partners, including: Morkeaw Foundation (Buddhist Medicine Foundation of Thailand), The Agricultural Museum (Public Organization), Nonthaburi Food Policy Council, The Union of Thai Traditional Medicine Society, as well as STOU Internal Units: Rajamangalaphisek Education Park, the School of Health Science, the Research Center of Communication and Development Knowledge Management (CCDKM), and the Community Resource Center (CRC).

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, presided over the opening ceremony. He noted that amidst global economic, social, and environmental shifts, the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy remains a vital compass for stable and sustainable living.

    The President emphasized that “Urban Agriculture” and “Healthy Food” are concrete tools for building food security and reducing health risks at the grassroots level. STOU remains committed to the royal legacy of “Sustain, Preserve, and Continue” by developing systematic learning processes that link food, health, and self-reliance.

    The exhibition featured a wide range of educational activities designed for all ages to apply in daily life:
    Keynote Sessions: Special lectures by Dr. Jaiphet Klatham (Mor Keaw) and experts in food security.
    Exhibitions: Showcases on the “23 Principles of Work” (Royal Teachings) and the nutritional wonders of indigenous vegetables.
    Health Demonstrations: Traditional “Tok Sen” massage demonstrations and herbal detoxification techniques.
    Workshops & Giveaways: Distributions of seedlings and plant cuttings, alongside a marketplace for health-conscious products and sufficiency-style agricultural goods.

    This event underscores STOU’s role as a lifelong learning institution dedicated to empowering communities through practical wisdom and sustainable health practices.

  • STOU delegation attends the 28th OU5 Bi-Annual Summit in Vietnam

    STOU delegation attends the 28th OU5 Bi-Annual Summit in Vietnam

    On 20–24 April 2026, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led a delegation of faculty and researchers to the 28th OU5 Bi-Annual Summit in Halong, Vietnam.

    Accompanying the President was Mrs. Rattip Phukkeson, Head of Internationalization Development and STOU’s OU5 Coordinator, along with five distinguished researchers:

    • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nareerut Seerasarn (School of Agriculture and Cooperatives)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan (School of Health Science)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Patthanan Bootchuy (Office of Educational Technology)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Kajornsak Sitti (School of Political Science)
    • Dr. Choneratt Suriyarangsun (School of Liberal Arts)

    The OU5 group is a strategic alliance of five leading distance-learning open universities in the ASEAN region. The summit serves as a platform to enhance distance education, collaborative research, and pedagogical innovation. The member institutions include:

    • Hanoi Open University (HOU) – Vietnam (Host for this summit)
    • Open University Malaysia (OUM) – Malaysia
    • University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) – Philippines
    • Universitas Terbuka (UT) – Indonesia
    • Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) – Thailand

    A total of 35 participants, including university presidents, coordinators, and researchers, attended the meetings. The hosting duties rotate among the members, with the next summit scheduled for November 2026 in Magelang, Indonesia.

    Before the main summit on 21 April 21 2026, Hanoi Open University hosted an international conference titled “Digital Economy in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.” During this academic event, Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs at STOU, was honored to serve as the Chairperson for the academic paper presentation sessions throughout the conference.

  • STOU holds 20th Southern STOU Relations Games in Phuket

    STOU holds 20th Southern STOU Relations Games in Phuket

    Phuket, 24–26 April 2026 – Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) successfully held the 20th Southern STOU Relations Games under the theme “Green & Gold Relations: Andaman Games.” The event gathered over 200 participants from network clubs across 14 southern provinces to strengthen unity, promote health, and engage in environmental conservation at The Pago Design Hotel Phuket.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Karn Boonsiri, Vice President for Academic Services, Networing, and Special Affairs, presided over the opening ceremony, with Mr. Ronnarit Chusong, President of the STOU Phuket Student Club, delivering the report.

    The Andaman Games was co-organized by STOU Phuket Student Club, STOU Phuket Alumni Club, and the STOU Nakhon Si Thammarat Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center.

    The project focused on four strategic dimensions:

    Health & Sports: Encouraging physical exercise and friendly competition among students, alumni, faculty, and community networks.
    Policy Alignment: Providing a platform for students and alumni to understand the university’s future directions and policies.
    Network Strength: Fostering solidarity across the 14 southern provinces to build a robust support system and reduce student dropout rates.
    Social & Environmental Responsibility: Raising environmental awareness, promoting local tourism, and preserving cultural identity.

    The three-day program featured a blend of social responsibility and athletic competition:

    CSR Initiative: A beach cleanup and landscaping activity at Saphan Hin Beach to promote “Green Phuket.”
    Sports Competitions: Matches in Futsal, Volleyball, Chairball, and various traditional folk games, complemented by a cheering squad contest.
    Green & Gold Gala Night: A social gathering featuring awards for new graduates and students who successfully passed three courses in a single semester.
    Executive Meet-and-Greet: An open session for university leadership to engage directly with students and alumni.

    The event saw immense cooperation from both public and private sectors, including the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization, Phuket City Municipality, Phuket Wittayalai School, Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation, Patong Development Foundation, the Third Naval Area Command, and the STOU Association.

    This collective effort underscores the enduring strength and sustainability of the STOU network in Southern Thailand.

  • Democratic Youth Project 2026

    Democratic Youth Project 2026

    Parliament House, April 22, 2026 – Mr. Sopon Sarum, President of the National Assembly, presided over the opening ceremony of the ” Democratic Youth 2026″ program. This initiative is a result of academic cooperation between the School of Human Ecology at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. The ceremony was attended by executives and faculty members from STOU.

    During the event, the President of the National Assembly addressed the significance of young people as the nation’s vital driving force and the future of Thai democracy. He emphasized that sustainable national development must begin with the cultivation of high-quality youth.

    The Democratic Youth activities were held from 21–30 April 2026, at the Seminar and Training Center, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University.

  • STOU Graduation Ceremony: Academic Year 2023

    STOU Graduation Ceremony: Academic Year 2023

    On 19 April 2026, Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida traveled to the Anek Nithat Building at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) in Pakkret, Nonthaburi on the occasion of the graduation ceremony of the 2023 academic year graduates (Class 42). They were received upon arrival by Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana.

    This year, the STOU University Council unanimously resolved to present honorary doctoral degrees to two members of the Royal Family for their outstanding contributions to the nation:

    • HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn: Conferred with an Honorary Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension and Development. This honor recognizes her tireless dedication to education, human resource development, and the practical implementation of the “Sufficiency Economy Philosophy” in agriculture.
    • HRH Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana: Conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Science. The degree honors her determination to improve the quality of life for Thai citizens through the establishment of Chulabhorn Hospital, the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, and the “Disease-Free Animals, Safe Humans from Rabies” project.

    For the 2023 academic year, a total of 8,832 students completed their studies across various levels:

    • Undergraduate: 7,637 graduates from 11 disciplines.
    • Master’s Degree: 871 graduates from 12 disciplines.
    • Doctoral Degree: 24 graduates from 4 disciplines.

    Distinctions of Excellence:

    • 65 Graduates received Honors (17 First-Class, 48 Second-Class).
    • 7 Graduates were awarded the prestigious “Golden Tri-Sorn Pin” for achieving First-Class Honors with top-tier academic scores.
    • The graduating class also included 18 graduates with disabilities, 35 monks, and one nun, reflecting STOU’s commitment to inclusive education.

    During the ceremony, His Majesty the King delivered a royal address, offering wisdom for the graduates’ future paths:

    “In living one’s life and pursuing a career—regardless of the era—one must possess immense mental fortitude and stability to avoid succumbing to obstacles or hardships. One must maintain self-control always to do what is right. I ask all graduates to diligently cultivate mindfulness (self-awareness) and wisdom (reasoning) so they may grow into a powerful strength for your lives thereafter.”

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University remains a leader in distance learning, adhering to the philosophy of Lifelong Learning. By utilizing various media and research-driven curricula, STOU aims to resolve national crises and enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness. Over its 47-year history, STOU has produced a total of 543,031 undergraduate alumni and 19,237 postgraduate alumni, cementing its role as a vital institution for human resource development in Thailand.

  • STOU and Secretariat of the House of Representatives Sign MOU to Promote Democracy and Civic Education

    STOU and Secretariat of the House of Representatives Sign MOU to Promote Democracy and Civic Education

    On Friday, 3 April 2026, at 2:30 PM, at Special Lounge 205, 2nd Floor, Parliament Building, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic cooperation with the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. This partnership aims to integrate academic knowledge with parliamentary expertise to drive democratic promotion activities for Thai youth and the general public.

    The ceremony featured the following key representatives:

    • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU.
    • Mr. Sirote Patpun, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives.

    The signing was witnessed by Mrs. Jongduan Suttirat, Deputy Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Saynamphung Tongsai, Dean of the School of Human Ecology at STOU. Executives, faculty members, and staff from both organizations also attended the ceremony.

    The primary goal of this collaboration is to foster understanding and develop appropriate attitudes toward the democratic system of government with the King as Head of State. This will be achieved through the synergy between the Democracy Promotion and House of Representatives Activities Group and the academic expertise of STOU’s School of Human Ecology.

    Key areas of focus include:

    • Civic Education: Developing curricula and activities to empower students and the public to live effectively and responsibly within a democratic society.
    • Political Participation: Creating channels and opportunities for citizens to engage with the parliamentary system accurately and in accordance with democratic principles.
    • Youth Support: Strengthening the “Democratic Youth” project, a long-standing initiative that has been operational for over 25 years.

    As a state higher education institution, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University reaffirmed its readiness to provide multi-disciplinary academic support. This partnership ensures that democratic promotion initiatives are implemented efficiently, providing maximum benefit to the nation and its citizens.

  • STOU and NACC ink pact to combat corruption through education and innovation

    STOU and NACC ink pact to combat corruption through education and innovation

    3 April 2026 — Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance academic cooperation, research, and innovation aimed at promoting transparency and good governance in Thai society.

    The signing ceremony took place at STOU’s Administration Building, featuring Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, and Mr. Surapong Intharathaworn, Secretary-General of the NACC. Key executives from both institutions witnessed the landmark agreement.

    This strategic partnership focuses on three core pillars:

    • Academic and Research Excellence: Collaborative efforts to conduct in-depth research and analyze data regarding anti-corruption measures under the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption B.E. 2561 (2018). The findings will serve as a critical database for policy development.
    • Innovation and Knowledge Dissemination: Leveraging STOU’s expertise in distance learning to develop educational innovations. The goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of misconduct among public and private sectors, students, and the general public, fostering a “zero-tolerance” culture.

    Curriculum Development: Integrating anti-corruption laws, constitutional law, and public procurement regulations into academic programs to equip learners with specialized legal knowledge and strong ethical standards.

  • STOU Strengthens International Ties at “Friends of Saskatchewan” Event

    STOU Strengthens International Ties at “Friends of Saskatchewan” Event

    On Thursday, 26 February 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) reaffirmed its commitment to global academic excellence by participating in the “Friends of Saskatchewan” event. The gathering, held in the Sukhumvit area, celebrated the enduring connections and professional contributions of Saskatchewan alumni and partners within Thailand.

    Representing STOU were Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, Information Technology, and International Affairs, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs. The event served as a high-level networking platform, bringing together Thai educational leaders and a visiting delegation from the Government of Saskatchewan, Canada.

    Dr. Songlak engaged with Canadian representatives to explore synergies in digital learning innovation and collaborative research. Both parties expressed a keen interest in Faculty Mobility, Joint Research Initiatives, and Knowledge Sharing.

    The attendance of STOU’s leadership underscores the university’s strategic goal of positioning itself as a leader in international distance education through robust global partnerships. The “Friends of Saskatchewan” event has paved the way for future Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) that will further bridge the academic communities of Thailand and Canada.

  • STOU Hosts Back-to-Back Global Printing and Packaging Events in March 2026

    STOU Hosts Back-to-Back Global Printing and Packaging Events in March 2026

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) reinforces its status as a premier hub for learning and international seminars. This March, the university was selected as the venue for two major consecutive events in the global printing and packaging industry, held at the Main Conference Room, G Floor, Library and Learning Resources Center.

    STOU Press served as the primary coordinator for the venue and logistics. In addition to hosting, the university’s personnel participated in these sessions to update their knowledge on world-class technologies and hosted workshop booths to showcase STOU’s own printing capabilities and standards.

    These events provided a vital platform for experts, brand owners, and designers from across the region to exchange insights and elevate printing quality standards.

    16–17 March 2026: Bangkok Packaging Master Class 2026

    Organized by Idealliance Southeast Asia, Japan & Korea, Graphics World, and Idealliance Taiwan. This intensive two-day workshop focused on bridging the “communication gap” between creative designers and production teams. The goal was to minimize waste and ensure consistent quality control in packaging production.

    18 March 2026: The G7+ Exchange Conference Asia 2026

    A high-level seminar dedicated to Modern Color Management. The conference featured world-renowned experts, including Ray Weiss from the PRINTING United Alliance and Ron Ellis,
    a leading specialist in G7+ systems, who shared global strategies and industry best practices. This collaboration underscores STOU’s commitment to integrating academic excellence with industry-leading technology on an international scale.

  • Chiba University Executives Visit STOU to Strengthen Academic Ties

    Chiba University Executives Visit STOU to Strengthen Academic Ties

    On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) formally welcomed Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shinji Kikuchi from Chiba University, Japan.

    The primary objective of this visit was to facilitate a knowledge exchange regarding instructional management and collaborative research with STOU’s School of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

    Key discussion points included:

    • Undergraduate Internships: Establishing frameworks for student practical training.
    • Graduate Study Tours: Securing study sites and field visits for postgraduate students, specifically those majoring in Plant Production Management.
    • Student Exchange Programs: Exploring reciprocal opportunities for students from both institutions to enhance their international academic experience.

    Following the academic discussions, the delegation visited the Educational Broadcasting Production Center (EBPC). Led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Wachira Brahmawong from the Office of Educational Technology, the tour showcased STOU’s advanced production processes
    for distance learning media.

    This meeting marks a significant milestone in strengthening the academic partnership between STOU and Chiba University. It paves the way for future international collaboration in teaching, research, and specialized agricultural development.