by Natetida Bunnag -

Asst. Prof. Chol Bunnag

Full NameChol Bunnag
Academic positionAssistant Professor
DepartmentCentre for SDG Research and Support, Faculty of Economics
Emailcholb@econ.tu.ac.th
Primary SDGsSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Related SDGsSDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Area of ExpertiseNatural Resource Economics & SDG Strategic Implementation
Policy Mechanisms for SDG Localization
Integration of Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) into Development Frameworks
Green Economy and Sustainable Development Policy
Selected PublicationsLocalizing SDGs in Thailand: Towards a more inclusive national science, research, and innovation (SRI) plan

by Natetida Bunnag -

General Guidelines for the Implementation of Sustainability in Higher Education Institutions

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The General Guidelines for the Implementation of Sustainability in Higher Education Institutions, developed by UNESCO, provide a high-level framework to support higher education institutions in systematically integrating sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across all dimensions of the university. The guidelines emphasize embedding sustainability into institutional governance and strategic planning, teaching and learning, research, campus operations, and engagement with external stakeholders and society at large. They highlight the unique role of higher education institutions as knowledge producers, capacity builders, and catalysts for social transformation, while promoting flexible and context-sensitive approaches that can be adapted to different institutional realities, resources, and levels of readiness, with a strong focus on continuous improvement, monitoring, and evaluation rather than prescriptive or rigid requirements.

by Natetida Bunnag -

TU and PSU Law Faculties Analyse Hatyai Floods: State Cannot Use ‘Force Majeure’ as a Defence for Management Failures

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Disaster Impacts Exacerbated by Governance & Data Gaps: The seminar revealed that the Hatyai flooding was intensified not only by extreme rainfall, but also by failures to utilise real-time data and outdated warning systems — leaving citizens without adequate time to protect lives and property.
  • Breakdown of Crisis Management & Public Service Delivery: Frontline experiences showed a lack of preparedness, weak coordination across agencies, ineffective evacuation support, and no unified command — resulting in communities relying on themselves and private networks during the crisis.
  • Legal Overlaps Create Accountability Challenges: Multiple laws enforced simultaneously caused confusion in the chain of command, while the Emergency Decree limited personal liability of state officials — complicating legal pathways for disaster victims seeking justice and remedies.
  • Call for Rights-Based State Responsibility in Disasters: Scholars proposed that courts recognise the State’s constitutional duty to protect citizens. Where mismanagement worsens disaster impacts, the State should be liable for incremental damages — establishing stronger accountability and driving reform toward transparent, efficient disaster governance.

The Faculty of Law at Thammasat University, in collaboration with the Faculty of Law at Prince of Songkla University (PSU), recently hosted an academic seminar titled “State Liability for Failures in Disaster Management.” The event aimed to decode lessons learned from the severe flooding in Hatyai District, Songkhla Province, last November, which caused extensive damage to life and property. The panel highlighted structural issues, mismanagement, and compelling legal avenues to seek justice for the victims.

Key Takeaways from the Seminar

Data Crisis and Warning Systems: When Old Models Fail

Addressing the Hatyai flood situation, Khun Thitinant Inthanu, a researcher from the Natural Disaster Research Centre of Southern Thailand (PSU), highlighted that this event differed significantly from the past. The area experienced abnormally high cumulative rainfall, with heavy downpours occurring simultaneously in the city centre and surrounding areas. This deviated from the traditional pattern where water typically flows down from upstream sources. Consequently, the flag-based warning system (Green-Yellow-Red), which had been effective previously, failed to alert the public in time. Scientific data confirms that while the severe weather was a natural phenomenon, the magnitude of the damage was partly due to a failure to utilise existing data for effective management and warning, leaving citizens with insufficient time to relocate assets or evacuate.

Voices from the Ground: A Reflection of a ‘Failed State’ in Crisis

From the perspective of frontline operations, Dr Supat Hasuwannakit, Director of Sabayoi Hospital, painted a clear picture of state failure. He noted a distinct lack of preparedness by the government both before and during the incident. Communication systems collapsed, evacuation centres were ill-equipped, and—crucially—there was a lack of a unified incident commander. This led to chaotic and directionless relief efforts, forcing citizens to rely primarily on themselves and the private sector. This scenario reflects the fragility of a bureaucratic system unable to integrate cross-agency operations when people need it most.

The Legal Knot: Overlapping Powers and Liability

Loopholes regarding the legal structure, Asst. Prof. Suthichai Ngamchuen-suwan, Dean of the Faculty of Law (PSU), analysed the complications caused by complex and redundant law enforcement. During this single event, powers were exercised under three different laws: the State Administration Act, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act, and the Emergency Decree. This created confusion within the chain of command. Furthermore, invoking the Emergency Decree carries legal implications that sever the personal liability of state officials, making it difficult to sue for damages. However, avenues remain to claim tort liability from state agencies if it can be proven that the damage was a direct result of neglecting duties prescribed by law.

Legal Proposals: The State Must Pay if it Neglects its Duty to Protect

Assoc. Prof. Dr Torpong Kittiyanupong from the Faculty of Law (TU) proposed a new approach to legal interpretation to ensure justice. He suggested that the Administrative Court should not hastily conclude that natural disasters are always “Force Majeure” (an irresistible force) exempting the state from responsibility. Instead, the court should consider the “State’s Duty” to protect fundamental rights under the Constitution. If the state is flawed in its warning systems or management, causing the damage to spread wider than it naturally would have, the state should be liable for that incremental damage. Filing an administrative case for compensation is not merely about remedial action for victims; it is about establishing a new precedent. It forces the state to realise its burden of duty in safeguarding public safety and stimulates a reform of the country’s disaster management system towards greater efficiency and transparency.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat Food Sci Wins Gold at SIIF Korea; Files Over 20 Patents for Food Innovations in 2025

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Global recognition for sustainable food innovation: Faculty researchers won prestigious international awards for biodegradable food packaging and health-focused food solutions, advancing SDG 12 and SDG 3.
  • Student innovators champion zero-waste entrepreneurship: Food Science students secured top national startup awards with projects using local ingredients, circular-economy design, and waste-reduction concepts.
  • Over 20 food innovations entering intellectual property pipelines: Faculty filed numerous petty patents across future food, alternative protein, functional nutrition, and process innovation — translating research into real-world impact.
  • Research that supports health, environment, and local economies: Innovations address food security, ageing-society nutrition, plastic reduction, and value creation from local and waste materials — reinforcing Thammasat’s commitment to sustainable development.

The year 2025 marks a golden era for the Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology at Thammasat University. The department has achieved continuous success on both national and international stages, reflecting a vision to drive Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through science. These food innovations prioritise both human health and the global environment.

Thammasat for SDGs takes a deep dive into these highlights, proving that research from Thammasat does not just stay in the lab; it creates intellectual property and delivers a tangible positive impact on society.

Global Awards for Sustainable Food Innovation

Faculty members and researchers have received accolades for presenting works abroad that address SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

  • Gold Award at the Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF): Asst. Prof. Dr Athip Boonsiriwit won top honours for his work, “Liquid Absorbent Pad from Basil Seed Polymer.” This biodegradable packaging innovation utilises mucilage from basil seeds to solve plastic waste issues in the meat industry.
  • Best Presentation Award at 13th ICIST 2025: Asst. Prof. Dr Sutheera Wattanakul and her research team earned acclaim at the 13th International Conference on Integration of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development 2025. Their winning project, “Retort Pouch Sour Curry with Egg White and Ruby Fish for Kidney Disease Patients,” aims to improve the quality of life for patients, allowing them to enjoy their meals once again.

Students Sweep Startup Awards

Food Sci students demonstrated their potential as innovators by sweeping major awards in national competitions. Their projects emphasised local ingredients and Zero Waste concepts:

  • “Seablite Fish Sauce” Team: Champions of Fi Asia 2025.
  • “NAMA COFFEE” Team: Gold Medalists at Thailand New Gen for their coffee made from date seeds.
  • “Milf Plus” Team: Runners-up at FoSTAT for their alternative milk made from Wolffia (duckweed).

An Innovation Think Tank: Over 20 Petty Patents Filed

In 2025, faculty members of the Department of Food Science and Technology entered a significant number of research projects into the intellectual property registration process (Petty Patents). These cover every global food trend:

1. Future Food & Alternative Protein Addressing food security and reducing global warming.

  • Insect Protein Snacks & Drinks: Innovation from “Giant Mealworm Pupae Powder” processed into crispy snacks and chocolate-flavoured almond milk (Asst. Prof. Dr Kittiya Khuenpet).
  • Plant-Based Innovation: “Plant-based Minced Meat,” “Riceberry Vegan Crackers,” and dairy-free, cholesterol-free “Winged Bean Seed Cheese Dipping Sauce” (Asst. Prof. Dr Sutheera Wattanakul), as well as “Vegan Macarons” made from sprouted soybeans (Asst. Prof. Dr Kittiya Khuenpet).

2. Functional Food & Health Serving the ageing society and health-conscious consumers.

  • Hom Thong Banana Energy Gel: A rapid-absorption energy gel for athletes made from Hom Thong bananas and whey protein (Asst. Prof. Dr Sutheera Wattanakul / Asst. Prof. Dr Sirinda Kusum).
  • Dairy-free Condensed Rice Milk Powder: A new alternative for those with cow’s milk allergies (Asst. Prof. Dr Kittiya Khuenpet / Asst. Prof. Dr Sutheera Wattanakul).
  • Inulin Candy: Sweets using inulin instead of sugar for better health (Asst. Prof. Dr Sirinda Kusum).

3. Value Creation for Local Ingredients Supporting the grassroots economy and reducing food waste.

  • Comprehensive Banana Processing: Including calcium-fortified banana tablets (Asst. Prof. Dr Racha Tepsorn).
  • Tamarind Seed Oyster Sauce: Using natural gum to replace chemicals (Asst. Prof. Dr Bussara Leelawat).
  • Crispy Budu Rice Salad: Transforming a Southern Thai dish into an easy-to-eat snack (Asst. Prof. Dr Racha Tepsorn).
  • Waste-to-Value: Plum-flavoured guava jam made from guava waste (Dr Wilailuk Chaisit) and Pearl bubbles made from irradiated purple rice (Asst. Prof. Dr Bussara Leelawat).

4. Process Innovation

  • Glycerine-infused Chinese Sausage: To extend shelf life (Assoc. Prof. Dr Prapasri Theprugsa).
  • Surimi-fortified Udon Noodles: (Assoc. Prof. Dr Warangkana Sompong).

These achievements prove that “Thammasat” is committed to creating innovations that are cutting-edge while simultaneously caring for the world and the quality of life for everyone.

For more details on the works of the Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology at Thammasat University, please visit Food Sci TU.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat in Action: 14 Policies Driving the SDGs, Covering Environment, Equality, and Quality of Life

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Sustainability embedded in university governance: Thammasat drives the SDGs through 14 core policies under three strategic pillars — Environment, Society & Inclusion, and Core Mission & Governance — reaffirming sustainability as a long-term institutional commitment.
  • Environmental leadership toward Net Zero and circular operations: Policies prioritise net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, campus-wide energy conservation, holistic environmental and waste management, elimination of single-use plastics, and sustainable (green) procurement.
  • Inclusive and equitable social ecosystem: Thammasat strengthens human dignity and safety through gender-equality and anti-discrimination policies, support and accessibility for persons with disabilities, and fair employment practices.
  • Governance that advances learning, safety, and public well-being: Core-mission policies uphold academic freedom, improve pedestrian and road safety, and promote a smoke-free campus — ensuring a healthy, people-centered learning environment.

Thammasat University is steadfast in its commitment to tangibly driving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This commitment is anchored in 14 key policies that form the foundation of our administration, creating real change through Three Strategic Pillars: Environment, Society, and Core Mission. We reaffirm that sustainability is a long-term mission that Thammasat has always upheld.

The essence of this policy suite addresses challenges at both the global and community levels:

Pillar 1: The “Green” Pillar (Environment & Operations)

Thammasat places the highest priority on resource and environmental management to sustainably reduce our impact on the planet through these key policies:

  • Net Zero Emissions: Setting a definitive target for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change.
  • Energy Conservation: Strictly enforcing energy conservation policies and building management measures to maximise electrical efficiency and support clean energy.
  • Environmental Management: Implementing a holistic environmental management system to ensure a high quality of life on campus.
  • Waste Management: Systematically managing solid waste with the goal of reducing landfill waste.
  • No Single-Use Plastic: Enforcing decisive measures to eliminate single-use plastics entirely.
  • Sustainable Procurement: Driving green procurement policies, prioritising eco-friendly products and services throughout the supply chain.

Pillar 2: The “Social & Inclusion” Pillar 

Thammasat stands firm as a safe space that values human dignity and the welfare of everyone:

  • Gender Equality & Non-discrimination: Opposing sexual discrimination, embracing gender diversity, and preventing all forms of harassment.
  • Disability & Reasonable Accommodation: Fully supporting individuals with disabilities in both employment and education, including environmental adjustments to facilitate daily life.
  • Fair Employment: Adhering to fair employment practices, ensuring equal pay, and opposing forced labour or human trafficking.

Pillar 3: The “Core Mission & Governance” Pillar 

Thammasat is committed to using knowledge and academic freedom to serve society and develop people of all ages:

  • Academic Freedom: Upholding academic freedom as the heart of teaching, learning, and research to create knowledge for the betterment of society.
  • Pedestrian Safety: Upgrading road safety, prioritising pedestrian rights, and creating a walkable environment.
  • Smoke-Free Campus: Designating all university areas as smoke-free zones for clean air and community health.

Thammasat never stops striving to create a sustainable society and stands ready to be a role model in driving positive, tangible change.

Read the full policy details at: https://sdgs.tu.ac.th/policy-operation/

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat Secondary School Certified as Member of Global ‘UNESCO ASPnet’, Aiming to Cultivate Global Citizens and Drive SDGs

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Thammasat University Secondary School joins UNESCO ASPnet: In November 2025, the school was officially certified as a member of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network, strengthening its role in advancing quality education for sustainability at a global level.
  • Model school for human rights, diversity, and peace-building: The certification reflects the school’s commitment to values-based education that promotes social responsibility, inclusion, and lifelong learning — in alignment with Thammasat University’s SDG mission.
  • Advancing SDG 4.7 through global citizenship and sustainability learning: Through ASPnet, the school contributes to Education for Sustainable Development, Global Citizenship Education, and Inter-cultural & Heritage Learning, connecting students to an international learning community across 182 countries.

On November 2025, Thammasat University Secondary School marked a significant milestone in elevating educational quality through the integration of education for sustainability. The school was officially certified as a member of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet), a crucial step in connecting its classrooms to the global community.

A Model for Values-Based Education

Receiving ASPnet certification reflects the vision and unwavering commitment of Thammasat University Secondary School to be more than just an educational institution. It strives to be a model space for a learning society that places high value on human rights, understanding diversity, and peace-building. This mission aligns perfectly with the core values of Thammasat University and its drive towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

About the Network 

ASPnet is a global network comprising over 12,000 educational institutions across 182 countries. Its objective is to promote the values and ideals enshrined in the UNESCO Constitution and the UN Charter, whilst actively supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 4.7. The network operates on three key pillars:

  1. Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
  2. Global Citizenship Education (GCED)
  3. Inter-cultural and Heritage Learning

Learn more about the operations of Thammasat University Secondary School at: https://www.facebook.com/thammasatsecondaryschool

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat Experts Unveil Post-Flood Recovery Guide for the South: Advice on Compensation Rights, Structural Assessment, and Mental Care

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Thammasat mobilises multidisciplinary expertise for post-flood recovery: TU convened specialists in law, engineering, public health, and mental health to provide practical guidance for safe, fair, and sustainable recovery for flood-affected communities in Southern Thailand.
  • Protecting citizens’ legal and financial rights: Experts clarified compensation entitlements for tenants, debt-relief options, and car-insurance provisions — empowering victims to access fair support and avoid unjust financial burdens.
  • Safety-first approach to housing and public health risks: Engineering guidance warned of structural instability on sandy terrain and urged professional inspection of damaged homes, while public health recommendations addressed hazardous waste and post-flood disease prevention.
  • Mental health support as a pillar of community resilience: Psychological first aid tools, hotline support, and responsible media consumption were encouraged, alongside a call for long-term government recovery systems to ensure no victims are left behind.

Following the major flood crisis in Songkhla and Southern Thailand, Thammasat University (TU), recognising the widespread impact, mobilised experts from four distinct fields. They joined forces at the seminar “TU Unites to Build Southern Immunity: Self and Community Recovery Post-Flood” to provide practical guidelines for citizens to rebuild their lives and properties safely and fairly.

1. Legal Aspects: Compensation Rights and Debt Management 

Asst. Prof. Dr Pimkamol Kongphok from the Faculty of Law clarified key issues regarding the government’s 9,000 THB compensation scheme:

  • Tenants’ Rights: Tenants in rented houses have the right to receive this compensation as they are the actual residents who suffered the damage. Tenants must prepare evidence, such as a lease agreement or a certification from a community leader, to prevent landlords from unfairly intercepting or deducting a share of the money.
  • Debt Relief: Victims can contact financial institutions to request debt suspension or interest reduction. In cases of delayed delivery of goods, victims can cite “Force Majeure” to avoid being classified as defaulting debtors.
  • Car Insurance: For vehicles with Class 1 insurance, flood damage is generally covered. If the damage exceeds 70%, it is considered a “Total Loss.” In this case, the hire-purchase contract is terminated, and the lessee is no longer required to pay installments (unless specific deficit clauses in the contract apply).

2. Engineering Aspects: Structural Safety in Sandy Terrain 

Assoc. Prof. Dr Suraparb Keawsawasvong from the Faculty of Engineering warned that Hatyai and Songkhla consist largely of “sandy soil,” which is highly susceptible to erosion as floodwaters recede.

  • Post-Flood Inspection: Check the ground beneath the house for voids or hollows.
  • The “Thumb Rule”: Observe cracks in the structure. If a crack is wide enough to insert a thumb, do not enter or inhabit the house. Contact an engineer immediately for inspection.
  • Long-term Risks: Be wary of rust developing within concrete structures, which can affect long-term stability.
  • Proposal: The government should consider creating openings or culverts in roads that block water flow to facilitate faster drainage into Songkhla Lake in the future.

3. Public Health Aspects: Hygiene and Waste Hazards 

Asst. Prof. Ronnapoom Samakkeekarom from the Faculty of Public Health emphasised that a greater concern than the deceased is “floating waste” and residual rubbish, which become breeding grounds for disease.

  • Cleaning Advice: Citizens must wear gloves and boots while cleaning their homes. Be extremely cautious of open wounds coming into contact with dirty water.
  • Waste Management: The government must urgently manage infectious and community waste hygienically to prevent disease outbreaks after the waters recede.

4. Mental Health Aspects: Psychological First Aid 

Asst. Prof. Burachai Asawa-taweeboon from the Faculty of Liberal Arts advised victims to regularly monitor their own mental state and that of those around them.

  • Tools: Use the DMIND screening tool available in the “Mor Prom” application, which connects to the 1323 Mental Health Hotline.
  • Media Consumption: Limit the consumption of depressing news to protect mental well-being.
  • Systemic Support: The government must have a continuous recovery plan so that victims can truly get back on their feet and do not feel abandoned once the news cycle moves on.

Thammasat University reaffirms its readiness to bring knowledge to the community to build a strong and sustainable society, standing side by side with the people of the South to overcome this crisis together.

Watch the full seminar “TU Unites to Build Southern Immunity”
at: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17N9Xp8ddC/

by Natetida Bunnag -

Unveiling the Success of Recycle TU Day: A Giant Leap Towards ‘Thammasat Zero Waste’

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Collective action drives tangible Zero Waste impact: Thammasat showcases measurable progress in recycling management through collaboration between students, staff, partners, the TU Waste Bank, and the Less Plastic I Thammasat initiative — reinforcing the university’s path toward “Thammasat Zero Waste.”
  • Circular model that benefits people and the planet: By integrating the Waste Bank resource-reuse system with donation-driven plastic reduction efforts, the project reduces landfill waste, cuts carbon emissions, and advances a transparent, data-driven circular economy on campus.
  • Open-data dashboard empowers community participation: A digital impact dashboard allows the Thammasat community to track recycling outputs and environmental benefits in real time, strengthening awareness, accountability, and engagement in sustainable campus operations.

Thammasat University invites the entire community to witness the tangible power of collective action. We are proud to reveal the impressive results of our recycling management efforts, a success story written by the hands of students, staff,and partners.

This initiative is a crucial milestone in our journey towards “Thammasat Zero Waste,” driven by the synergistic cooperation between the TU Waste Bank and the donation efforts of Less Plastic I Thammasat.

The Power of Collective Action

The statistics we are sharing today are not just numbers; they represent tons of carbon emissions saved and a significant reduction in landfill waste.

By integrating the Waste Bank system—where waste is treated as a resource with value—with the charitable spirit of the Less Plastic initiative, we have created a circular model that benefits both the environment and society.

Deep Dive into Insights: The Digital Dashboard 

Transparency is key to sustainability. We believe in open data. Therefore, we invite you to explore the full operational summary and visualize our impact through our comprehensive

See exactly how much we have recycled and the environmental impact of your contributions here: https://คคค.my.canva.site/recyclingpilot

Empowering the Community 

This project is more than just waste management; it is about “Empowerment.” We are raising awareness and equipping the Thammasat society with the tools and mindset needed to achieve true sustainability. It reinforces our commitment to driving the Thammasat Zero Waste policy into reality.

Acknowledgements

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the data and support from our key partners:

  • The Waste Bank
  • Rangsit Centre Administration Division
  • Life at Thammasat Rangsit
  • LessplasticTU
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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat Academic Becomes First in Thailand and ASEAN to be Named ‘People of ACM 2025’, Bridging the Digital Divide with Supercomputing

HIGHLIGHTS

  • First ASEAN Representative Named “People of ACM 2025”: Asst. Prof. Dr Worawan Diaz Carballo becomes the first person from Thailand and ASEAN to receive this global recognition from the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).
  • Democratising Supercomputing for Communities: Leading the “HPC Ignite” project, she expanded access to high-performance computing beyond academic institutions, upskilling 373 participants across four northern provinces.
  • Driving Social Innovation & Reducing Inequality: The programme produced 11 community-driven innovation projects, including Hmong language translation tools and the development of herbal asthma relief products.
  • Inclusive Digital Learning Platform with Global Impact: The team created a mobile-accessible learning platform adopted by the ACM HPC Summer School, enhancing equitable access to technology education worldwide.

Thammasat University has once again secured its place on the international stage with a remarkable academic achievement that reflects both national pride and regional progress. Asst. Prof. Dr Worawan Diaz Carballo (Marereongsit), a lecturer at the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University (Lampang Centre), has been selected by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) — the world’s largest and most influential educational and scientific computing society — as one of the “People of ACM” for 2025.

This prestigious recognition marks a historic milestone, as she becomes the first individual from Thailand and the ASEAN region to be honoured in this category. Her selection highlights her outstanding contributions as a visionary leader in the future of global computing, particularly through her commitment to applying advanced technologies to create tangible social impact.

A Driving Force Behind Inclusive Technological Development

More than a personal achievement, this recognition reflects years of dedicated work bridging the gap between complex computing systems and community-level problem-solving. Dr Worawan has consistently championed the idea that cutting-edge technology should not be confined to elite institutions, but should instead be accessible to people from all sectors, especially those in underserved or remote areas.

Connecting Tech Power to Local Solutions

A key factor behind Dr Worawan’s selection was her leadership of the groundbreaking “HPC Ignite” project (Ecosystem for High-Performance Computing Workforce Development). The initiative was created to democratise access to high-performance computing (HPC) — or “supercomputers” — which are typically available only to advanced research communities.

Through extensive training activities and community engagement, the project enabled 373 participants to be upskilled across four northern provinces — Lampang, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, and Lamphun

Participants were empowered to apply HPC knowledge to real local challenges, strengthening regional innovation capacity and advancing inclusive digital transformation.

Social Innovation and Bridging the Equality Gap

The project resulted in 11 community-driven social innovation projects, demonstrating how advanced technology can generate meaningful benefits for society.

Notable examples include:

  • development of Hmong language translation software to support ethnic communication and service access
  • transformation of traditional herbal medicine into an asthma relief spray, integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific innovation

These initiatives showcase how supercomputing and data processing can reduce social inequality, improve quality of life, and support local economies.

Expanding Access Through Inclusive Digital Learning

To address infrastructure barriers in remote areas, the research team developed a mobile-accessible learning platform that allows learners to access HPC training anytime, anywhere — significantly lowering entry barriers.

The platform has gained international recognition and has been adopted for use in the ACM HPC Summer School, helping promote equitable global access to technology education.

Thammasat’s Commitment to Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Reflecting on this milestone, Dr Worawan noted that this recognition demonstrates that supercomputing is not a distant concept, but a strategic national tool for advancing innovation, strengthening economic competitiveness and addressing social challenges.

This achievement aligns seamlessly with Thammasat University’s mission to create inclusive learning ecosystems, support its people, and remain committed to serving society through sustainability-driven innovation.

by Natetida Bunnag -

World AIDS Day: Thammasat Prioritises Community Well-being with Accessible, Stigma-Free HIV Care

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Promoting Equal Access to Sexual Health Services: Thammasat Well Being Center provides confidential HIV screening, counselling, and prevention tools to all students and staff — including international community members — supporting SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-Being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
  • Expanding Inclusive Early Detection Initiatives: WHO-standard HIV self-test kits enable fast, private screening in just 1 minute, empowering individuals to take proactive control of their health through early detection.
  • Normalising Safe Sex Through Public Awareness Campaigns: Ongoing campus-wide initiatives distribute condoms and promote open conversations on Safe Sex, stigma reduction, and responsible self-care.
  • Building a Safe, Supportive and Non-Judgmental Health Environment: The Center provides confidential counselling and emotional support, reinforcing Thammasat’s commitment to dignity, inclusivity, and lifelong wellbeing.

1 December marks World AIDS Day — a global moment to reflect on the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, whilst acknowledging the work that still remains. It is a vital opportunity to dismantle misconceptions, challenge stigma, and emphasise the critical importance of equal access to accurate health information, screening, and medical services for all.

The theme also aligns strongly with Thammasat University’s long-standing commitment to public health, human dignity, and social justice — values that have shaped the university’s mission across generations.

At Thammasat University, we believe that health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. In line with this belief, the Thammasat Well Being Center is dedicated to fostering a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment, where every member of our community — regardless of gender, nationality, or background — can access screening, prevention tools, and professional counselling without fear of judgment or discrimination.

We operate on the principle that “Early Detection” is the key to effective health management, emotional reassurance, and peace of mind. By promoting proactive health behaviour, we aim to build a campus environment where students and staff are empowered to take control of their own wellbeing.

Comprehensive Sexual Health Support for the Thammasat Community

The Thammasat Well Being Center has established itself as a hub for holistic and confidential sexual health care. Our work goes beyond medical services — it is about building awareness, trust, and an open culture of communication around sexual health.

We are committed to making health services tangible, accessible, and responsive to the lived realities of students and staff. Our key services include:

1. Private and Rapid Self-Screening

We understand that privacy is often a major barrier preventing individuals from getting tested. To address this, the Centre provides HIV self-test kits that meet WHO Prequalified standards, ensuring both quality and reliability.

  • Fast Results: Know your status in just 1 minute
  • Ease of Use: Simple, self-administered testing in the privacy of your own home
  • Peace of Mind: Reduces anxiety and removes barriers associated with clinical testing

This service encourages individuals to take the first step toward awareness and early care — safely and confidently.

2. Universal Access Without Borders

Health care should have no nationality, gender, or social boundaries. Our screening and counselling services are open to:

  • Thai students and staff
  • International students and staff
  • Exchange and visiting community members

Everyone receives the same respectful, confidential, and non-judgmental standard of care. This reflects Thammasat’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and global citizenship

3. Normalising Safe Sex Through Active Campaigning

At Thammasat, we believe that prevention is better than cure, and that sexual health should be discussed openly — not hidden behind stigma.

The Well Being Center organises ongoing awareness campaigns during key festivals and social moments, such as:

  • Valentine’s Day
  • Major student festivals
  • 9.9 shopping campaign period

Through these initiatives, we distribute free condoms and personal lubricants, while also encouraging conversations around:

  • Safe Sex practices
  • Consent
  • Responsibility for oneself and others

Our goal is to transform Safe Sex from a taboo subject into a normal, informed, and responsible practice of self-care.

You Are Not Alone — We Are Here to Listen

For many individuals, concerns about HIV or sexual health can create feelings of stress, confusion, or isolation.

At the Thammasat Well Being Center:

  • Confidential counselling is available
  • Our professional staff provide guidance, emotional support, and referral pathways when needed
  • Every conversation is treated with dignity and respect

No one has to face these concerns alone — support is always available.

Visit Us

Thammasat Well Being Center
SC 1 Building, 1st Floor, Room 1062
Thammasat University (Rangsit Centre)

Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday (Official Working Days)
09:00 – 20:30

Contact Us: 02 696 6600–2

Important Note: Some specialised services may be available during specific time slots or seasonal rounds. Schedules are subject to change. We recommend checking the latest updates before your visit via our official page: Thammasat Well Being Center