SDG 4 Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

SDG 4 in numbers

The graph shows Thammasat University’s new enrollments from 2018 to 2023, starting with 8,505 students in 2018–2019, rising to a peak of 9,516 in 2020–2021, then declining to 8,747 in 2021–2022 and 8,379 in 2022–2023. This trend reflects initial growth followed by a steady decrease in recent years.

The graph shows Thammasat University’s scholarly output on SDG 4 (Quality Education) from 2015 to 2023. Starting with 8 publications in 2015, output peaked at 38 in 2022, with fluctuations over the years. Despite a slight drop to 34 in 2023, the trend reflects a strong, growing focus on quality education research in recent years.

Research in SDG 4 (2019 – 2024)

Empowering Minds: Thammasat University’s Trailblazing Research for Inclusive and Innovative Education

Thammasat University scholars are actively advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education) through diverse research clusters focused on improving education quality and accessibility in Thailand and beyond.

A significant area of research addresses language and literacy education, particularly in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) settings. Studies explore collaborative teaching techniques, scaffolding, and data-driven learning (DDL), alongside methods to improve reading comprehension. These efforts aim to strengthen foundational literacy and language skills among Thai students, which are essential for broader academic success and competitiveness in global contexts.

Educational technology and digital learning environments represent another major research focus. Scholars at Thammasat are exploring the use of virtual reality (VR) for specialized training, such as in dental and civil engineering programs, and integrating Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and gamified platforms to increase student engagement and promote digital citizenship. This focus on educational technology underscores the university’s commitment to leveraging digital tools to expand access to high-quality education and to tailor learning environments to contemporary needs.

Pedagogical innovation in higher education forms a third important research area. Thammasat scholars are investigating the effectiveness of flipped classrooms, role-playing, and problem-based learning in fields like business and science. These approaches cultivate essential skills like critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, preparing students for dynamic workforce demands.

Lastly, research on educational equity and inclusivity highlights efforts to address disparities in Thai education, including unequal access to funding, resources, and opportunities. Scholars are developing frameworks to support inclusive learning environments, such as tailored support for hearing-impaired students, to promote equal access to quality education for all learners.

Collectively, these research clusters showcase Thammasat University’s dedication to SDG 4 through an inclusive, innovative, and technology-enhanced approach to education. By focusing on foundational literacy, digital tools, pedagogical innovation, and equity, Thammasat is advancing both the quality and accessibility of education across diverse levels and disciplines.

Explore Thammasat’s SDG related publications

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 4

Thammasat University has implemented over 200 social service projects related to SDG 4, “Quality Education,” across various faculties. These initiatives aim to promote knowledge and skills for learners and educators, while fostering collaboration for sustainable education and social development.

The Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education plays a central role, notably through the “Teacher Empowerment” (ก่อการครู) project. This project conducts capacity-building workshops for lead teachers across Thailand, equipping them with modern teaching methods to enhance classroom effectiveness. The faculty also organizes professional networking events to facilitate experience-sharing among teachers nationwide.

The Faculty of Economics contributes to interdisciplinary integration by offering training programs in economics for social studies teachers. This initiative helps educators understand and teach economic concepts in a contemporary, comprehensive manner, preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex society. The integration of economics with education development exemplifies Thammasat’s approach to SDG 4.

The Institute of East Asian Studies offers projects promoting Japanese language and cultural learning, emphasizing cross-cultural understanding. One such initiative is the Kyogen theater performance for high school students, blending language, art, and cultural education to foster a holistic learning experience in a globalized world.

These projects target a diverse range of beneficiaries, including high school teachers and students, university students, and individuals from various organizations. By addressing the specific needs of each group, Thammasat University demonstrates its commitment to advancing quality education in Thailand, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Through interdisciplinary efforts, the university continues to contribute significantly to education reform and development.

Explore related case studies

Featured Stories

Library of Life

Thammasat University Libraries (TUL) supports SDG 4: Quality Education by offering over 1.3 million books, 2,000 newspaper titles, and access to 100 international databases. With 11 branches and a learning center, TUL provides resources for research, teaching, and learning. The “Life Space” concept promotes lifelong learning with co-working, learning, inspiration, and performance spaces. As part of its Future Workforce strategy, TUL offers dynamic activities and workshops to foster creativity and skill development, ensuring learners are prepared for a rapidly changing world. The Life Space is a model for inclusive, lifelong learning.

Reference:
Thammasat University Library launched ‘Lifebrary and 7S,’ aiming to become the ‘Library of Life.’
Thammasat University Library launched “Life Space,” moving towards becoming the “Library of Life.”

TU Next: Empowering Lifelong Learning for All, Anywhere

Launched in 2021 by Thammasat University’s Institute for Continuing Education and Human Resources (ICEHR), TU Next is an online platform for Reskilling and Upskilling. Offering flexible learning with the option to Learn Anywhere, Anytime, it provides a variety of free courses across topics like Art, Gen Next Academy, and Human Capital Management. The platform promotes collaboration through Class Networking and awards official TU Certificates. Specialized programs such as M.A.D Bootcamp and Pharmatopia TU support skill development. TU Next’s multi-device access ensures education is inclusive, fostering lifelong learning and enhancing professional credentials.

Reference:

TU NEXT’s Website
Free Online Courses from TU NEXT, Institute of Lifelong Learning and Human Resources, Thammasat University, under the Gen Next Academy

Thammasat University’s Ongoing Outreach: Supporting Rural Education through the National Partnership School Project

Since 2022, Thammasat University’s Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education, in collaboration with the Jaika Ting Foundation, has been improving education in rural Thailand through the “Ecosystem of Meaningful Learning and Happiness” project. Focused on four schools in Phichit Province—Bang Mun Nak, Wat Ban Huai Yao, Wang Takur, and Ban Noi Pruk Utit—the project aims to address key educational challenges, including curriculum adaptation to real-world needs and the promotion of multi-grade teaching strategies. By empowering teachers as leaders and strengthening community-school relationships, the initiative supports the national Partnership School Project’s goal of transforming education. Thammasat’s efforts align with its mission to ensure inclusive, quality education for all, regardless of location.