Born To Be Wild

Blog

  • STOU’s Intellectual Repository Certified as National Model for Digital Information Management Standards

    STOU’s Intellectual Repository Certified as National Model for Digital Information Management Standards

    On 22 June 2026, Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, Information Technology, and International Affairs at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), officially accepted a certificate recognizing the university’s digital repository as a national model for quality digital archive management, complying with the National Digital Repository Publication Standards (MTCh/Publication Standard 2001-2567).

    This recognition was awarded to the Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University Intellectual Repository (STOUIR), developed by the Office of Documentation and Information. STOUIR successfully passed rigorous assessments to be certified as a “Model Digital Information Repository,” reflecting the dedication and high capability in developing digital archives to meet stringent national standards.

    The award ceremony took place at the Thailand Research Expo 2026, held under the theme “Research Synergy: Driving Power for a Creative and Sustainable Thai Economy and Society” at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, Bangkok.

    The STOU Intellectual Repository (https://ir.stou.ac.th) serves as the university’s centralized platform for compiling dissertations, theses, independent studies, and journal articles. Operated via the open-source software DSpace and utilizing the Dublin Core Metadata standard,
    the repository was developed entirely by the technical team at the Office of Documentation and Information.

    The initiative and detailed standard compliance documentation were spearheaded under the leadership of Assoc. Prof. Krittika Jiwalak, the former Director of the Office of Documentation and Information. Supported by STOU, the repository participated as a model agency in the institutional assessment and certification system project initiated by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). Having successfully cleared all evaluations in 2024 (B.E. 2567), the official certification has been validified spanning four years, effective from 16 February 2026, to 15 February 2030.

  • STOU Liberal Arts Co-Hosts Asian Literacy Conference 2026, Exploring “Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI”

    STOU Liberal Arts Co-Hosts Asian Literacy Conference 2026, Exploring “Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI”

    BANGKOK, 26 June 2026 — The School of Liberal Arts at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the International Literacy Association (ILA), the Thailand Literacy Association (TiLA), Chulalongkorn University, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Library Network, and the Thai Library Association under the Royal Patronage of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, successfully co-hosted the international academic conference, Asian Literacy Conference 2026.

    Held from 18-19 June 2026, at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), the conference centered around the timely theme “Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI.” The event aimed to elevate and drive new directions for language learning and literacy advancement amidst the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.

    The international forum was officially opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, Information Technology, and International Affairs, representing the President of STOU. Asst. Prof. Vasan Rattanapoka, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, warmly welcomed international delegates.

    This significant gathering was made possible through an extensive network of domestic and international scholars, coordinated by Emeritus Prof. Dr. Namtip Wipawin, President of TiLA and a member of the executive committee for STOU’s Ph.D. program in Information Science (School of Liberal Arts).

    Highlights of the Two-Day Conference

    18 June 2026 | Study Tour & Network Building

    Delegates embarked on a study tour at the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University. This was followed by a meeting of the International Development in Asia Committee (IDAC), which brought together literacy association representatives from across Asia, including Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand.

    A key highlight was a special session by Mr. Sakil Malik, Chief Growth and Strategy Advisor for Childhood Education International, who shared insights on applying research to improve education and literacy at both community and organizational levels. The day also featured poster presentations from local and international researchers.

    June 19, 2026 | Keynote & Panel Discussions

    The second day focused on special lectures and academic presentations regarding multilingual literacy and AI literacy. A major highlight was the panel discussion on “Case Studies of Multilingual Literacy in the Age of AI,” moderated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Lugsamee Nuamthanom Kimura from STOU’s School of Liberal Arts.

    Distinguished international speakers included Dr. Merlene Alon, Ms. Linda Warfel,
    Dr. Rizalina C. Labanda, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Banjerd Jongapirattanakul, who exchanged diverse perspectives on reshaping literacy development in the current era of AI revolution. Co-hosting this prestigious international conference underscores the vital role of STOU’s School of Liberal Arts in fostering global academic networks. By promoting knowledge in literacy, lifelong learning, and educational digital technology, STOU continues to empower learners to thrive and work effectively in today’s fast-evolving digital and AI-driven society.

  • STOU Holds Memorial Service for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha

    STOU Holds Memorial Service for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha

    On 15 June 2026, at 9:00 AM, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held a solemn memorial service for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Krom Luang Ratchasarinee Siripatchara Maha Weeraratthida at the main auditorium of Phitthayaphat Building.

    The ceremony was presided over by Professor Emeritus Tongthong Chandransu, Chairman of the STOU University Council, and attended by university executives, faculty members, and staff.

    During the service, the STOU community expressed their deepest gratitude for Her Royal Highness’s boundless royal benevolence. Throughout her life, the Princess dedicated herself to numerous royal duties and initiatives aimed at fostering the well-being of the public and the nation.

    Her notable contributions included her leadership in reforming the judicial system and improving the quality of life for underprivileged groups through the “Kamlangjai” (Inspire) Project. Furthermore, her extensive humanitarian relief work through the “Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, Thai Red Cross Society” stands as a testament to her profound compassion for the Thai people.

    The university executives, faculty, and staff also gathered to honor the outstanding capabilities and academic achievements of Her Royal Highness, who was one of the university’s most distinguished alumnae.

    Princess Bajrakitiyabha graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Political Science in International Relations and Comparative Politics, from STOU. She achieved First-Class Honors and received her degree alongside the Golden Tri Sorn Pin (an award for outstanding academic excellence) during the graduation ceremony on 17 January 2001, at Amporn Sathan Throne Hall. This achievement remains a source of ultimate pride and honor for the university. To allow the public to express their condolences, STOU has provided a book of condolence. Faculty, staff, and the general public are invited to sign their names at Parichat Lawn, located at the front of the university campus.

  • STOU Celebrates Visakha Bucha Day

    STOU Celebrates Visakha Bucha Day

    On 29 May 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) hosted a Buddhist merit-making ceremony to mark the upcoming Visakha Bucha Day (31 May 2026). The event also served as the official launch of the university’s campaign promoting the wearing of applied Thai dress and local fabrics every Friday, aligning with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation’s (MHESI) ‘Wear Thai with Pride’ campaign.

    The ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU. Key religious activities included:

    • Offering alms and dried food to 9 Buddhist monks.
    • Listening to Dhamma teachings and receiving blessings.
    • A candlelit circumambulation (Wien Tien) around the Ho Phra Phut Ming Mongkhon Dhammasathan, which houses the university’s sacred Buddha image.

    In addition to the religious ceremonies, STOU encouraged its staff to wear applied Thai traditional outfits or local fabrics. This initiative directly supports the MHESI policy that invites personnel to wear Thai textiles every Friday to honor and preserve the nation’s unique cultural identity.

    To add a contemporary touch and promote Thai Soft Power, the organizing committee introduced “Bua Phab Rap Boon”—exquisitely folded lotus flowers for participants to use during the ceremony. Attendees were invited to take photos with their lotus flowers in front of the shrine while dressed in traditional attire.

    This activity taps into the current social media trend where people enjoy dressing in traditional costumes to check in at cultural landmarks. The event successfully blended timeless traditions with modern lifestyles, beautifully reflecting STOU’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting Thai arts and culture to the public.

  • STOU Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Monument of King Rama IX

    STOU Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Monument of King Rama IX

    On 26 May 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held a sacred groundbreaking ceremony (the “First Soil” ceremony) to mark the commencement of the construction of the royal monument of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (King Rama IX).

    The ceremony, held at the Office of Traditional Arts under the Fine Arts Department in Nakhon Pathom Province, was presided over by Emeritus Prof. Tongthong Chandransu, Chairman of the STOU University Council. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, delivered the opening report detailing the significance and objectives of the project.

    The construction of the King Rama IX Royal Monument is envisioned not merely as a memorial, but as a profound symbol of loyalty and boundless gratitude towards the late monarch. It reflects STOU’s unwavering commitment to carrying forward the King’s royal determination to expand educational opportunities in Thailand. This initiative aims to ensure that all Thai citizens have equal access to high-quality knowledge, effectively and equitably bridging the educational gap in society, in alignment with the royal remarks given to the university by King Rama IX:

    “ The establishment of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University can be deemed the opening of a truly modern university – one that enables those with the ability to seek knowledge and expertise to step forward into bold new horizons. It is clear that Thais are an intelligent people, lacking only opportunities to expand their own knowledge and ability. They are an intelligent people who have shown that when given the chance to study at advanced levels, their accomplishments are equal to – and sometimes even surpass – the achievements of other civilized nations. It is therefore fitting to give all Thai people such an opportunity for further study….”

    — Royal proclamation granted on 5 November 1981, when Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an, the founding president of STOU, presented the university’s land title deeds to His Majesty.

    To ensure the smooth progress and success of the construction, a sacred worship and blessing ceremony (Phiti Buang Suang) was performed to pay respects to sacred entities and traditional masters. This ritual served to boost the morale of the university staff, artisans, and all involved parties. Upon completion, the royal monument will be permanently enshrined at the Rajamangalaphisek Education Park on the STOU campus. It will stand as a lasting tribute to His Majesty’s immense grace and serve as the spiritual heart of the STOU community and the Thai people for generations to come.

  • STOU Welcomes Kumutmas School Nonthaburi, Hosting Sustainable Outdoor Learning Activities

    STOU Welcomes Kumutmas School Nonthaburi, Hosting Sustainable Outdoor Learning Activities

    On 28 May 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) warmly welcomed executives, teachers, and students from Kumutmas School, Nonthaburi, for a study tour aimed at promoting and supporting sustainable outdoor learning.

    The visiting delegation included Mrs. Atchana Kampanatsaenyakorn, the School Director, along with teachers and 17 second-grade (Grade 2) students at the STOU headquarters in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi.

    STOU tailored activities to foster effective and sustainable learning experiences outside the classroom for the elementary students. The itinerary included:

    • Organic Worm Composting Workshop: Held at the Urban Agriculture Learning Center, School of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
    • STOU History & Heritage Tour: An educational walk through the Ratchamangkhalaphisek Educational Park.
    • Library Exploration & Eco-Friendly Workshop: A tour of the Library and Learning Center, followed by a creative “Eco-Bag Painting” workshop on the 1st floor.
    • Creative Media Production Experience: An inside look at broadcasting and media creation at the Educational Broadcasting Production Center (EBPC).

    During the visit, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, personally greeted the delegation from Kumutmas School.

    “STOU is delighted to welcome everyone. We are fully committed to promoting all forms of learning, whether through academic services or educational activities,” Dr. Taweewat stated. “This is especially true for our youth, who will become the driving force behind the sustainable development of our country in every dimension.”

    The visit concluded with a group photo session and a presentation of souvenirs to the faculty of Kumutmas School. STOU expressed its gratitude to the school for recognizing the university’s potential as a premier and sustainable educational hub for outdoor learning within Nonthaburi Province.

  • STOU and NSM Sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Environment

    STOU and NSM Sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Environment

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the National Science Museum (NSM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen academic collaboration and jointly promote knowledge development in science, technology, innovation, and environmental studies. The partnership also aims to enhance lifelong learning opportunities for youth and the public, contributing to the creation of a sustainable learning society.

    The signing ceremony took place on 21 May 2026 at the Library and Learning Resources Center, STOU. Executives and staff members from both organizations attended the event as witnesses. The collaboration seeks to integrate academic expertise and resources from both institutions to develop learning activities, expand public academic services, disseminate knowledge, and facilitate exchanges of personnel, research, and educational resources. The initiative is expected to broaden access to science, technology, and environmental education for people of all ages.

    During the event, introductory videos highlighting the missions and roles of both organizations were presented to provide insight into future collaborative efforts.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, delivered a welcoming address emphasizing the significance of the partnership. He stated that, as an open university, STOU is committed to promoting lifelong learning and developing knowledge that responds to societal and technological changes. These goals align closely with NSM’s role as a national learning hub for science, technology, innovation, and environmental education.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Deputy Director and Acting Director of the National Science Museum, noted that the agreement represents another important step toward strengthening academic networks and expanding educational platforms that deliver scientific and environmental knowledge to Thai society in a broad and inclusive manner.

    The MOU was formally signed by Associate Professor Dr. Taweewat Wattanakulcharoen, President of STOU, and Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Deputy Director and Acting Director of NSM. Witnesses to the signing included Assistant Professor Dr. Pathanin Saeng-arun, Director of the Office of Academic Resources and Information Technology, STOU, and Dr. Kannika Chen, Deputy Director of the National Science Museum. Following the ceremony, NSM executives and personnel toured the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center, where they explored the university’s learning facilities and educational innovations. Featured areas included educational media service spaces, collaborative learning zones, the Music Therapy Room, and creative activity spaces. The visit highlighted STOU’s capabilities in supporting lifelong learning and delivering comprehensive academic services in the digital era.

  • STOU Leadership Joins Africa Day 2026 Celebration in Bangkok

    STOU Leadership Joins Africa Day 2026 Celebration in Bangkok

    On Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at 6:00 PM, at the Rembrandt Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 18, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), together with Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs, attended the celebration marking the anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), commemorated as Africa Day 2026. The event was held upon the invitation of H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco and Dean of the Group of African Head of Missions accredited in the Kingdom of Thailand.

    Africa Day marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the predecessor of the African Union (AU), in 1963. The celebration recognizes the progress Africans have made over the years while also reflecting on the shared challenges they continue to face in a changing global environment.

    The event featured exhibitions showcasing the rich cultural diversity and distinctive identities of the African continent. Activities included live musical performances, displays of traditional national attire, as well as booths offering authentic African handicrafts and traditional cuisine.

  • STOU, TCU, and TPQI sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development in Thailand

    STOU, TCU, and TPQI sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development in Thailand

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) has joined forces with the Thai Cyber University Project (TCU), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), and the Thailand Professional Qualification Institute (TPQI) to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening Thailand’s lifelong learning ecosystem and connecting education with the workforce to sustainably develop national competencies under the concept “STOU FOR ALL.”

    On 20 May 2026, STOU organized the MOU signing ceremony under the theme “STOU FOR ALL: Connecting Education, Careers, and the Future.” The initiative seeks to integrate educational opportunities with workforce development and create a more accessible, continuous learning system for people of all ages. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Wannee Nonsiri, Chief Inspector General at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, at the conference hall of the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center.

    The agreement was signed by senior representatives from the three institutions, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU; Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khaisang, Director of TCU Project; and Ms. Jullada Meejul, Director General of TPQI.

    The collaboration focuses on several key objectives:

    • Promoting lifelong learning by expanding equal access to knowledge and educational opportunities for learners of all ages.
    • Developing systems for credit transfer and recognition of work experience, including the Credit Bank and Competency Credit Bank frameworks, enabling learning achievements and professional experiences to be formally recognized.
    • Advancing research, educational innovation, digital technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) to build future-ready learning systems.

    In addition to the signing ceremony, the event featured an academic forum where executives from STOU, Thai MOOC, and TPQI exchanged perspectives on strengthening lifelong learning policies and workforce competency development under the concept “One Worker, One Learning Opportunity.”

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen stated that “STOU FOR ALL promotes lifelong learning for students, learners, and the general public by connecting educational pathways across institutions through the Credit Bank system, enabling learners to accumulate credits toward academic and professional qualifications, ultimately leading to a degree from STOU.”

    Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khaisang emphasized TCU’s role as a bridge between institutions and government services, with STOU serving as a key driving force in developing learning programs that effectively respond to learners’ needs.

    Meanwhile, Ms. Jullada Meejul highlighted the importance of competency measurement for working-age populations, noting that professional qualifications can help connect workforce experience with education pathways and create tangible opportunities for career and skill advancement.

    Participants also visited STOU’s online examination management system at the university’s 80th Anniversary Commemoration Building. The system integrates modern technology and artificial intelligence (AI) with institutional expertise to enhance the quality and security of online assessments, improve evaluation processes for distance and online learning programs, and reduce opportunities for academic misconduct. Through the STOU FOR ALL initiative, STOU continues to expand educational opportunities while supporting professional development across its 12 academic schools. The university is currently accepting applications for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, dual-degree, and short-term future skills development programs.

  • STOU provides first aid and CPR training for Nonthaburi police

    STOU provides first aid and CPR training for Nonthaburi police

    The School of Nursing at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the Provincial Police Region of Nonthaburi, organized its second community academic service program aimed at equipping police officers with essential first aid and emergency response skills. The training focused on assisting victims with severe injuries, fractures, choking incidents, seizures, stroke symptoms, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) through the project titled “Rehabilitation, Basic First Aid, and the Use of AED.”

    The training was held on 14 May 2026 at the main conference hall of the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center. The opening ceremony was presided over by Major General Decharapee Khongdee, Commander of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police, while Assistant Professor Dr. Pavin Chinachoti, STOU Vice-President for General Administration and Human Resources, delivered the welcome remarks.

    This marked the second year of the program following the successful training of more than 70 police officers from several districts in Nonthaburi Province last year. This year, over 50 police officers participated, along with members of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police Housewives Association and staff from STOU’s Office of Academic Resources and Information Technology, bringing the total number of participants to more than 70. The sessions were led by professional nurses from Thanyaburi Hospital and faculty members from STOU.

    The program was organized in recognition of the critical role police officers often play as first responders to emergencies and accidents. Providing them with knowledge and practical skills in first aid and basic life support is essential to reducing casualties and improving the chances of survival for members of the public during emergency situations.