by Natetida Bunnag -

TU Sustainability Report 2023 Recap | ธรรมศาสตร์กับการขับเคลื่อน SDG 1

มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ให้ความสำคัญกับประเด็นการขจัดความยากจน โดยใช้ความรู้ความสามารถและทรัพยากรที่มีอยู่เพื่อสร้างการเปลี่ยนแปลงเชิงบวก ผ่านการดำเนินงาน 3 ด้านหลัก ได้แก่ งานวิจัย งานบริการวิชาการและการสร้างความร่วมมือ เพื่อนำพาสังคมไทยสู่ความเท่าเทียมและยั่งยืน

1. งานวิจัยทางวิชาการเพื่อแก้ปัญหาความยากจนหลากหลายมิติ 

ธรรมศาสตร์มุ่งมั่นศึกษาและวิจัยประเด็นที่เกี่ยวข้องกับการขจัดความยากจนและการพัฒนาสวัสดิการสังคมอย่างต่อเนื่อง โดยครอบคลุมหัวข้อสำคัญดังนี้

  • ศึกษาและวิเคราะห์นโยบายเศรษฐกิจและสังคมที่มีผลต่อการลดความยากจนและความเหลื่อมล้ำ เช่น การวิเคราะห์นโยบายที่สอดคล้องกับ SDG 1 และการศึกษาความเหลื่อมล้ำทางรายได้ในตลาดแรงงาน
  • สำรวจอุปสรรคในการเข้าถึงบริการสุขภาพของกลุ่มเปราะบาง เช่น แรงงานนอกระบบและผู้อพยพ เพื่อเสนอแนวทางแก้ไขที่ตรงจุด
  • ศึกษาผลกระทบจากการเปลี่ยนแปลงสภาพภูมิอากาศต่อชุมชนรายได้น้อย และพัฒนาแนวทางการปรับตัวเพื่อลดความเปราะบางและความยากจน
  • ประยุกต์ใช้เทคโนโลยีเพื่อระบุพื้นที่ยากจน และเพิ่มโอกาสในการเข้าถึงอาชีพและการมีงานทำ

2. โครงการบริการสังคมเพื่อตอบโจทย์ความต้องการของชุมชน

มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ดำเนินโครงการบริการวิชาการที่หลากหลาย เพื่อสนับสนุนการพัฒนาคุณภาพชีวิตของคนในชุมชน และช่วยลดความยากจนในหลายมิติ ผ่านความร่วมมือของคณะต่างๆ ตัวอย่างเช่น

  • คณะสังคมสงเคราะห์ศาสตร์ ดำเนินโครงการ “นโยบายสวัสดิการเด็กและครอบครัว” และ “ครอบครัวสุขสันต์ ลูกรักเป็นสุข” เพื่อให้ความรู้และทักษะแก่บุคลากรในชุมชน ในการช่วยเหลือเด็ก ครอบครัว และกลุ่มครอบครัวเลี้ยงเดี่ยว
  • คณะเศรษฐศาสตร์จัดสัมมนาสาธารณะในหัวข้อเกี่ยวกับผลกระทบของเงินอุดหนุนเด็กต่อสุขภาพของเด็กยากจน และการพัฒนาระบบสวัสดิการสังคมที่ยั่งยืน
  • สำนักงานวิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยีขั้นสูงจัดอบรมให้ความรู้ด้านการวางแผนการเงินและการปรับโครงสร้างหนี้แก่สหกรณ์โคนมวังน้ำเย็น เพื่อเสริมสร้างความเข้มแข็งทางเศรษฐกิจระดับฐานราก
  • วิทยาลัยพัฒนศาสตร์ ป๋วย อึ๊งภากรณ์ดำเนินโครงการ “กองทุนสวัสดิการชุมชน” เพื่อสร้างการเชื่อมโยงระหว่างภาครัฐ ภาคธุรกิจ และภาคประชาสังคม ในการช่วยเหลือกลุ่มเปราะบางทางการเงิน

3. ความร่วมมือกับภาคส่วนต่างๆ เพื่อสร้างการเปลี่ยนแปลงในวงกว้าง

ธรรมศาสตร์มุ่งมั่นสร้างความร่วมมือกับหน่วยงานและภาคส่วนต่างๆ เพื่อขยายผลการดำเนินงานและสร้างผลกระทบเชิงบวกในวงกว้างยิ่งขึ้น ตัวอย่างโครงการที่น่าสนใจ ได้แก่

  • “ธรรมศาสตร์โมเดล” เป็นโครงการความร่วมมือที่ดำเนินงานต่อเนื่องมา 15 ปี ร่วมกับสมาคมเพื่อนชุมชน และบริษัทเอกชนขนาดใหญ่ (เช่น PTT Group, BLCP, Dow Thailand) เพื่อสนับสนุนและเสริมสร้างความเข้มแข็งให้กับวิสาหกิจชุมชนในพื้นที่นิคมอุตสาหกรรมมาบตาพุด จังหวัดระยอง
  • มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ ศูนย์ลำปาง ร่วมมือกับศูนย์พัฒนาชุมชนและหน่วยงานภาครัฐในท้องถิ่น เปิดแพลตฟอร์มร้านค้าออนไลน์  “TU to Share Online Shop” เพื่อเพิ่มช่องทางการตลาดและกระจายสินค้าให้กับผู้ผลิตรายย่อยและสินค้าชุมชน ทำให้พวกเขาสามารถเข้าถึงผู้บริโภคได้กว้างขวางขึ้น

มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์มุ่งมั่นที่จะนำความรู้ความเชี่ยวชาญ และทรัพยากรที่มีอยู่ มาใช้เพื่อขจัดความยากจน สร้างสังคมที่เท่าเทียม และพัฒนาอย่างยั่งยืน โดยเน้นการทำงานร่วมกับชุมชนและภาคส่วนต่างๆ เพื่อให้เกิดการเปลี่ยนแปลงที่ดีขึ้นอย่างเป็นรูปธรรมและยั่งยืนสำหรับทุกคน

ข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับการดำเนินงานเพื่อขจัดความยากจนตามเป้าหมายการพัฒนาที่ยั่งยืนข้อที่ 1 (SDG 1: No Poverty) เหล่านี้ สรุปและเรียบเรียงจาก รายงานความยั่งยืนของมหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ ฉบับล่าสุด ประจำปี 2566 (Thammasat University Sustainability Report 2023)

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University establishes collaborations with various private sector industries to enhance student readiness and open doors to careers

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Strategic Industry Partnerships via MOUs: Thammasat University has established formal collaborations with leading private sector companies across industries—such as IBM, Grab, Binance, SCG, and KGI Securities—to provide students with skills, internships, and direct career pathways.
  • Hands-on Career Development Projects: Initiatives like the “KGI ALGO TRADING BOOTCAMP” and “GrabCampus” offer real-world learning experiences, while partnerships in digital assets, actuarial science, and manufacturing help tailor academic programs to meet industry demands.
  • Comprehensive Student Support Services: Through the TU Cooperative Education and Career Development Centre (TUCEEC) and faculty-level career centres, students receive tailored counselling, skills training, and job-matching services to support their transition into the workforce.
  • Impressive Graduate Employment Outcomes: These robust collaborations and support systems contribute to Thammasat University’s high graduate employment rate—over 92% in 2024—demonstrating the success of its industry-engaged educational approach.

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In an era of rapid global change, preparing students for a stable and successful transition into the professional world is a crucial mission for leading higher education institutions like Thammasat University. Recognizing this importance, the University has formally collaborated with diverse private sector entities to provide students with opportunities to develop skills, gain experience, and build networks, which will serve as a vital foundation for their career growth. This article explores these robust collaborations through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), active projects, and the commendable outcomes achieved by Thammasat University students.

MOUs: Bridges to Career Opportunities

Thammasat University has signed numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading private companies, serving as bridges to diverse career opportunities for students. These collaborations span various industries, with notable examples including:

  • Digital and Technology Sector: The University has partnered with giants like IBM Thailand in the “Thammasat – IBM SkillsBuild” project, offering students free access to essential digital skills such as data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Furthermore, students can transfer credits earned. Additionally, there is a collaboration with Grab Thailand to enhance student potential in the digital age through the GrabCampus project, which focuses on business management skills and learning from real-world situations. This also includes partnerships with Binance Thailand and Gulf Energy Development to cultivate personnel in digital assets, responding to the growth of this industry in Thailand.
  • Business and Finance Sector: The Faculty of Science and Technology has collaborated with KGI Securities to organize the “KGI ALGO TRADING BOOTCAMP” project, enhancing Algorithmic Trading skills for students interested in the capital market. Additionally, there is a partnership with Thai Reinsurance Public Company Limited to produce high-quality graduates in actuarial science, with an emphasis on internships, cooperative education, and curriculum adjustments to meet private sector demands.
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Sector: The University prioritizes providing students with practical experience through collaboration with SCG, a leading industrial conglomerate. This focuses on internships, cooperative education, and the development of essential knowledge and skills for real-world work.
  • Regional Entrepreneurship: The College of Innovation (CITU) has signed an MOU with SEA Bridge to promote personnel development, entrepreneurship training, and cross-border business expansion. A prominent project is SEA Bridge NextGen, which focuses on practical skills in business expansion and innovation.
  • Social and Industrial Development: Thammasat University has also partnered with the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) to promote cooperative education projects, internships, research, and academic services to society, providing students with close exposure to the industrial sector.
  • Furthermore, there are (implied) discussions and collaborations with CP Group in health sciences and technology, particularly in food and cancer prevention, biotechnology, telemedicine, AI, and robotics, demonstrating a commitment to forging partnerships across diverse fields.

Intensive Projects Supporting Students’ Career Readiness

Beyond MOUs, Thammasat University also implements numerous other projects and initiatives to comprehensively support students’ career paths, such as:

  • Internship and Cooperative Education Programmes: These programmes are available at various faculties, such as the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Economics, and Faculty of Political Science. They publicise opportunities and encourage students to participate in internships with leading companies and organizations, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the “TU Internship & Job Fair” is held annually, serving as a platform for students to meet and apply for jobs directly with private companies.
  • Career Counselling and Guidance Services: The University has dedicated units, such as the Thammasat University Cooperative Education and Career Development Centre (TUCEEC), which offers a wide range of services from skill development and training to job and internship matching. Furthermore, the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy has its own career counselling centre to provide tailored advice to students in their respective fields.
  • Industry Engagement Activities: In addition to the Job Fair, various faculties organize seminars and lectures by industry experts to provide students with in-depth information and networking opportunities within their fields.

These collaborations enable Thammasat students to develop skills and knowledge, gain practical experience from real-world work, build professional networks, and enhance future employment prospects. This comprehensive preparation results in a high employment rate for Thammasat University graduates, with over 92% of graduates employed after completing their studies in 2024.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Arm Booster: Muscle Rehabilitation Innovation by Thammasat Researchers Treats Stroke Patients and the Elderly at an Accessible Price

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Innovative Rehabilitation for Stroke Patients and the Elderly: Arm Booster, developed by Thammasat University’s CED-Square, is a low-cost, user-friendly device that supports upper-limb rehabilitation by using a bilateral training mechanism based on the motor transfer concept.
  • Advanced Biomechanical Design: The device features three degrees of movement, a weight compensation system, load cell sensors, and real-time visual feedback, offering natural motion and progress monitoring. Future plans include gamification to boost patient motivation.
  • Proven Impact and Recognition: Arm Booster has been deployed in Thai healthcare facilities and was awarded a Gold Award at i-CREATe 2022 in Hong Kong, confirming its potential and international appeal.
  • Scalable, Accessible Innovation for Public Health: With support from the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund (SRIP) and accolades from the NRCT, Arm Booster is poised to improve rehabilitation outcomes nationwide and set a model for affordable healthcare innovation globally.

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In an era where Thai society is facing the increasing challenge of a continuous rise in stroke patients and a rapid shift towards an aging population, the need for effective and easily accessible rehabilitation equipment is paramount. Amidst this situation, “Arm Booster” has emerged as an innovative beacon of hope, developed by researchers from Thammasat University. This device not only aids in the rehabilitation of arm function for stroke patients but is also extremely beneficial for the elderly in maintaining their physical strength and preserving their independence in daily life.

Arm Booster: Working Principles and Underlying Technology

Arm Booster is an arm training device that employs a symmetrical reflection mechanism. This means that the user exercises their weaker arm by using their stronger arm as a guide. This design is based on the concept of motor transfer, which posits that the neural pathways associated with the movement of the functional arm can help stimulate and train the muscles of the weaker arm.

The technology behind Arm Booster comprises:

  • Bilateral Arm Therapy: The device is designed for simultaneous exercise of both arms, which promotes balanced muscle development and reinforces the brain’s memory of arm function.
  • Three Degrees of Freedom: The device can move in three planes: arm extension (Y-axis), arm elevation (Z-axis), and arm abduction (X-axis). This allows for arm rehabilitation that is natural and closely mimics everyday movements.
  • Weight Compensation System: The device features a spring system to compensate for the weight of the device’s structure. This reduces the effort required by the user, particularly those with significant muscle weakness.
  • Sensor Integration: The device is equipped with load cell sensors on both handles to measure the force exerted by the weaker arm in real-time. This enables precise monitoring of progress.
  • Visual Feedback: A screen displays real-time data from the sensors, along with status lights that provide visual cues about the effort being exerted by the weaker arm, actively engaging the patient in the exercise.
  • Potential for Gamification: Future development plans include integrating a gaming system to enhance enjoyment and motivation during use. This will make therapy less tedious and encourage patients to continue regularly.

From Research to Real-World Application: The Arm Booster Journey

Arm Booster is the brainchild of the Centre of Excellence in Creative Engineering Design and Development (CED-Square) at Thammasat University, under the leadership of Assistant Professor Dr Banyong Roongrojdulyaboon, a specialist in biomechanics and machine mechanics. The development of this device was supported by the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund (SRIP) and received a “Very Good” invention award from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), a testament to the quality and potential of this innovation.

Tangible Benefits: Transforming Patients’ Lives

Consistent and continuous use of Arm Booster can lead to significant changes in the lives of stroke patients and the elderly:

  • Improved Muscle Strength and Range of Motion: Repetitive and assisted movements with Arm Booster can stimulate muscle growth and improve joint flexibility.
  • Enhanced Coordination and Fine Motor Control: Bilateral training helps stimulate new neural pathways and improves coordination between both arms.
  • Promoted Stroke Recovery and Reduced Disability: Arm Booster provides a structured and supported environment for high-intensity repetitive training, which is essential for promoting neuroplastic changes in the brain.
  • Maintained Muscle Strength in the Elderly and Promoted Independence: Regular exercise using Arm Booster helps the elderly maintain the strength and dexterity of their upper limbs, making it easier for them to perform daily activities.

Accessibility and Acceptance: Scaling Up for Society

Arm Booster has been implemented in various healthcare facilities across Thailand, such as the Bueng Yi Tho Medical and Rehabilitation Centre in Pathum Thani Province and the Nong Sida Sub-district Health Promoting Hospital in Saraburi Province. Furthermore, it received a Gold Award at i-CREATe 2022 in Hong Kong, demonstrating international recognition.

A Bright Future: Continuous Advancement and Development

Arm Booster holds significant potential to elevate the quality of life for stroke patients and the elderly in Thailand. With its accessible price and outstanding efficacy, this device will be another crucial medical innovation for Thailand and serve as a model for other developing countries in developing innovations for public healthcare.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Stadium Continues Collaboration with Tha Khlong Municipality, Fostering Well-being in the Surrounding Community

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Over Two Decades of Partnership: Thammasat University and Tha Khlong Municipality have sustained a 22-year collaboration through the “Healthy Tha Khlong Residents for All” project, promoting health awareness and active living.
  • Community Access to Sports Facilities: Residents of Tha Khlong have full access to Thammasat University’s extensive sports facilities, with non-university users making up 25% of attendees.
  • Joint Hosting of “Tha Khlong Games 2024”: The successful co-organization of the 38th Local Government Student Games showcased the strength of the university-municipality partnership and the quality of the university’s sports infrastructure.
  • Model for Health-Driven Community Engagement: Thammasat University’s commitment to becoming a “Healthy University for All” and a “Sport Community” reflects its broader mission to serve as a hub for public well-being and sustainable community development.

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Thammasat University is reinforcing its role as a “university for society” by continuing its strong collaboration with Tha Khlong Municipality in Pathum Thani Province. They are moving forward with the “Healthy Tha Khlong Residents for All” project to promote health and build resilience among the people in the communities surrounding the university.

This project isn’t a new venture; it’s a robust partnership that has spanned over 22 years (since 2003). Its main goal is to empower the people of Tha Khlong with the knowledge and understanding to look after their health and to be able to apply this in their daily lives. Thammasat University itself has a clear aim to be a “Healthy University for All” and is committed to developing into a “Sport Community” so that exercise becomes a part of everyone’s daily routine.

Opening the Stadium, Creating Opportunities for the Community

A key aspect of this collaboration is Thammasat University’s decision to allow residents registered within the Tha Khlong municipal area full access to the sports facilities at Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus. Whether it’s the football pitches, indoor sports hall, swimming pool, or running tracks, everyone can come and use them for exercise and recreation. Currently, people from outside the university account for as much as 25% of users (statistics from the Property and Sports Management Office, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, 2021-2022).

“Tha Khlong Games 2024”: A Significant Collaboration

Another success that demonstrates the excellent cooperation is Thammasat University and Tha Khlong Municipality jointly hosting the 38th Local Government Student Games, Central Region Qualifying Round, under the name “Tha Khlong Games 2024”. This event took place between 14th and 23rd May 2024.

Tha Khlong Municipality took the lead in organising the games, with the Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus Sports Centre serving as one of the four main venues. The grand opening ceremony was held at Gymnasium 4 within the Sports Centre, presided over by the Governor of Pathum Thani Province, with the Mayor of Tha Khlong delivering a welcome address and outlining the objectives of the event. The municipality’s choice of the university’s sports facilities highlights their confidence in the standard and readiness of the venue.

University Ready to be a Space for Promoting Everyone’s Health

The main objective of this collaboration is to utilise the university’s existing resources, particularly its high-standard sports centre, to promote physical activity and sports at the community and regional levels. Tha Khlong Municipality hosting the student games and choosing Thammasat University’s sports facilities as the main venue is a concrete example of integrating resources between government agencies and educational institutions.

Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, spans over 300 rai (a unit of land area) and has been developed into a comprehensive health and sports hub. It boasts a variety of modern facilities such as the main stadium, indoor sports hall, swimming pool, cycling paths, and various exercise areas, all of which are open to students, staff, and the general public.

Proud Achievements

The collaboration between Thammasat University and Tha Khlong Municipality has yielded many proud achievements. The successful hosting of the “Tha Khlong Games 2024” provided a standard level sports competition experience for students from across the central region. Furthermore, opening the university’s sports facilities to the community has encouraged more people to exercise, which will have long-term benefits for the overall health of the community.

Thammasat University remains committed to continuing its collaboration with Tha Khlong Municipality and is ready to create various activities to promote the health and well-being of the communities surrounding the university, firmly believing that a strong community starts with the good health of everyone.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Graduates Achieve a 92% Employment Rate, Underscoring Curriculum Quality

HIGHLIGHTS

  • High Graduate Employment Rate: Thammasat University reported a 92.62% employment rate among recent bachelor’s graduates, reflecting strong alignment between academic programs and job market needs.
  • Private Sector Dominance: 64.77% of graduates secured jobs in the private sector, driven by the university’s industry-relevant curriculum and partnerships with companies.
  • Top-Performing Fields and Faculties: Health Sciences had the highest employment rate at 95.67%, with standout faculty performance from Learning Sciences and Education (98.33%) and Commerce and Accountancy (96.56%).
  • Comprehensive Career Preparation: The university’s focus on soft skills, practical training, internships, and career services significantly contributes to graduate employability.

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Thammasat University has released the findings of its latest graduate employment survey, which polled 6,366 recent bachelor’s degree graduates. The survey revealed a notably high employment rate of 92.62%, demonstrating how well the university’s curricula align with the current demands of the job market. This figure also indicates a consistent upward trend in graduate employment compared to previous years.

Job Market Analysis: Private Sector Leads the Way

The survey results showed that the private sector remains the primary destination for Thammasat University graduates, with an employment rate of 64.77%. This significant engagement with the private sector can be put down to the university’s focus on developing skills directly relevant to industry needs, blending academic learning with practical application. Furthermore, collaborations between the university and private companies, such as internships, seminars, and joint research projects, play a key role in this high employment rate.

At the same time, the public sector accounted for 15.83% of graduate employment, while self-employment stood at 12.45%. This distribution highlights the diverse career paths taken by Thammasat University alumni.

Subject Breakdown: Health Sciences Top the List

Looking at the data by academic subject, the Health Sciences field recorded the highest employment rate at 95.67%. This reflects the consistently increasing demand for medical and public health professionals, particularly given current global health challenges.

Close behind were the Social Sciences and Humanities, with an employment rate of 92.46%, and Science and Technology at 91.32%. The strong employment figures within the Social Sciences and Humanities underline the continuing importance of skills developed in these areas, such as critical thinking and communication, which remain highly valued by employers.

Faculty Analysis: Strong Performance Across the Board

At the faculty level, the Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education achieved the highest employment rate at 98.33%. This was followed by the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy (96.56%), the Faculty of Sociology and Anthropology (94.64%), the Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication (93.36%), the Faculty of Law (92.04%), the Faculty of Liberal Arts (91.39%), and the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts (91.18%). These statistics demonstrate the adaptability and preparedness of graduates from a wide range of academic disciplines for entering the workforce.

Factors Behind Employment Success: Well-Rounded Graduates and University Support

The employment success of Thammasat University graduates can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the university prioritises the development of soft skills (emotional and social intelligence) alongside academic knowledge. Moreover, the curriculum incorporates practical, transferable professional skills, and the university facilitates internships with leading organisations, both in Thailand and internationally, allowing students to gain work experience and build professional networks.

In addition, the university provides career guidance and employment support services to help students and alumni with career planning and job applications. Emphasis is also placed on cultivating other essential skills, including analytical thinking, foreign language proficiency, and communication skills.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University’s Green Initiative: Advancing Towards a Green University with Sustainable Recycling Activities, Achieving Over 1 Million Kilograms of Recycled Waste for Two Consecutive Years

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Comprehensive Recycling Initiatives: Thammasat University promotes sustainability through projects like the Recycling Bank, Project Zero Waste, and recycling efforts at major events, encouraging proper waste segregation and active community participation.
  • Solid Waste Management Policy with 7R Framework: Since 2019, the university has implemented a robust waste management policy based on the 7Rs—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair, Replenish, Rethink—aimed at reducing single-use plastics and improving overall waste handling.
  • Remarkable Recycling Achievements: Over the past five years, Thammasat University Rangsit Campus has recycled more than 4 million kilograms of waste, including over 1 million kilograms annually for two consecutive years (2023–2024).
  • Future-Focused Sustainability Goals: The university is exploring innovative solutions like biofuels and refuse-derived fuels (RDF) to reduce landfill waste and transform non-recyclables into valuable resources, reinforcing its commitment to an eco-friendly campus.

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As a leading higher education institution in Thailand, Thammasat University recognises the importance of environmental conservation and is committed to contributing to the creation of a sustainable society. One of the key projects the university prioritises is its “Recycling Activities,” which encompasses a wide range of initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting the efficient use of resources to create a sustainable environment for all.

Exploring Various Recycling Projects

Thammasat University Rangsit Campus Recycling Bank: This project serves as a central hub for purchasing recyclable waste from students, staff, and the general public. It operates with a membership system and transparent pricing, which is published monthly to encourage active participation in recycling. Detailed information about waste management procedures, operational steps, and contact details is provided to ensure ease of access for interested participants.
Learn more at: https://rangsitcenter.tu.ac.th/recycle 

Project Zero Waste: The goal of this initiative is to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills by emphasising correct waste segregation into categories such as recyclable waste, organic waste, general waste, hazardous waste, and infectious waste. The project hosted the “Sort Before You Toss, Toss in the Right Bin” campaign to raise awareness and educate the university community about proper waste sorting.

Learn more at: https://psm.tu.ac.th/thammasat_zerowaste/#:~:text=มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ได้ริเริ่มโครงการ,อย่างถูกวิธีในระดับ 

Recycling at the Chulalongkorn-Thammasat Traditional Football Match: The university has applied recycling principles at various events, such as the Chulalongkorn-Thammasat traditional football match. Segregated waste bins for organic food waste, general waste, and recyclables were provided, alongside Green Guides to assist event-goers with proper waste disposal to minimise environmental impact.

Waste Management Policy Framework

Thammasat University has implemented a “Solid Waste Management Policy,” a vital commitment to effective and sustainable waste management. This policy has been in effect since 2019 and was last updated in October 2024 to align with changing circumstances and technologies.

The policy applies to students, staff, vendors, and anyone present on campus, aiming to ensure everyone plays a role in responsible waste management. It clearly defines the types of waste to facilitate sorting and handling.

The university has also adopted the 7R strategy (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair, Replenish, Rethink), a globally recognised framework promoting an integrated approach to waste reduction. Emphasising prevention and reuse before recycling, the policy includes measures such as reducing single-use plastic in canteens and markets to cut down on plastic waste.

Additionally, the policy stresses the importance of tracking and measuring waste generation and recycling rates, with data collection and analysis playing a crucial role in monitoring the effectiveness of the waste management programme and identifying areas for improvement.

Learn more at: https://sdgs.tu.ac.th/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/4.-Policy-on-Solid-Waste-Management.pdf

Achievements and Future Direction

Thammasat University Rangsit Campus has made remarkable progress in recycling waste, having recycled over 4 million kilograms of waste in the past five years (2020-2024). Most impressively, the campus has managed to recycle over 1 million kilograms of waste for two consecutive years. Furthermore, the proportion of recycled waste continues to increase, demonstrating the university’s dedication and effectiveness in its waste management efforts.

Looking ahead, Thammasat University remains committed to reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills by exploring innovative solutions for non-recyclable waste, such as producing biofuels and refuse-derived fuels (RDF). This intelligent and sustainable waste management approach aims to transform waste into a valuable resource.

The university is not only focused on effective waste management today but is also committed to a sustainable future by integrating technology and innovation to create a truly environmentally friendly campus.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Highlights ‘Girls’ Love Series’ as a Catalyst for Socio-Economic Opportunity, Foresees Thailand as a Leading GL Entertainment Hub by 2025

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Rising Popularity and Economic Potential of GL Series: Girls’ Love (GL) series in Thailand have seen a surge in popularity, ranking among the top online content trends and expected to become a 2,000-million-baht industry.
  • GL Series as a Catalyst for Gender Equality: Thammasat University and experts highlight the genre’s role in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and gender inclusivity, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDG 5).
  • Soft Power and Global Cultural Influence: GL content is seen as a strategic tool for enhancing Thailand’s soft power by showcasing inclusive narratives and promoting Thai culture internationally.
  • Thailand’s Leadership Potential in the Global GL Market: With creative storytelling and increased investment, Thailand is poised to become a leading exporter of high-quality GL content to global audiences.

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In an era of increasing acceptance and openness towards gender and sexual diversity, entertainment media plays a crucial role in reflecting societal landscapes and fostering understanding of diverse issues. On 17th March 2025, Thammasat University hosted a seminar entitled “GL Power: When Female Love Stories Create Impact,” to analyse and assess the growth potential of the Thai entertainment industry through Girls’ Love (GL) series, a genre gaining widespread popularity.

The GL Phenomenon in Thailand: From Popularity to Economic Potential

Over the past year, GL series have experienced a surge in popularity within Thailand. Yuri content ranked among the Top 10 most engaging online topics during mid-2024. This phenomenon reflects a growing consumer demand for content that portrays love and relationships between women in diverse and engaging ways. Both small and large production houses have turned their attention to this market, resulting in numerous highly successful GL series.

Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawan, Rector of Thammasat University, stated that the university prioritises the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 5 concerning gender equality. The university is committed to creating a society of equality within Thammasat and supporting participation in all dimensions. Furthermore, it promotes the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals to access opportunities and resources equitably, which forms a crucial foundation for a sustainable society.

Dr. Kiattiya Saisanan, a lecturer at Thammasat University’s Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, noted that GL series serve as a significant instrument in fostering understanding of LGBTQ+ rights within society. They present narratives of love and acceptance in a manner that avoids mockery or excessive seriousness, whilst subtly embedding informative content that encourages viewers to appreciate diverse perspectives on love.

Dr. Kiattiya anticipates substantial growth in the GL series genre over the next three years, and that this form can assist in the advancement of the so called, ‘Soft Power’. The Thai media landscape can also benefit, providing storylines of love and gender diversity, raising awareness of, and understanding, Thai culture globally. It is expected to be an industry of up to 2,000 million Baht.

Thailand’s Potential as a Global Leader in the GL Market

Tanwarin Sukkhapisit, a film and series director, added that Thailand possesses considerable potential to create and export GL series and could ascend to a leadership position in this market, provided that the government offers support and investment in the production and development of high-quality content. Particular emphasis should be placed on crafting creative plotlines and employing astute production strategies.

Noramon Kanyanamit (writing under the pen name Ma-Bung), an author of GL novels, revealed that several popular GL series are adapted from best-selling GL novels. The trend of GL series is not merely ephemeral; rather, it is experiencing continuous growth and garnering widespread acceptance within society.

Driving Soft Power and Cultivating Cultural Influence

The expansion of the GL series in Thailand is not simply a passing trend, but is evolving into a major industry with the capacity to propel Thailand’s soft power onto the global stage. Building upon the foundation of popular GL novels adapted into high-calibre series, the Thai entertainment sector can produce content that resonates with audiences while simultaneously expanding its international fan base.

Should Thailand successfully elevate production standards and expand its market reach to global platforms, GL series will become a cultural export that genuinely bolsters the economy and cultivates influence on an international scale. This represents an opportunity for Thailand to establish itself as a centre of a sustainable and powerful entertainment industry on the world stage.

In conclusion, GL series not only serve as a popular form of entertainment but also as a vital tool in promoting gender equality, fostering understanding of diversity, and propelling Thailand’s soft power onto the global arena.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Support for Underrepresented Groups – Thammasat University

Highlights

  • Thammasat University’s DSS Center provides comprehensive support for students with disabilities, including resources for mobility, hearing, and visual impairments.
  • More than 85% of graduates with disabilities secure employment each year, demonstrating the effectiveness of the university’s “Students with Disabilities Project.”
  • The center offers tailored academic counseling, assistive devices, and approximately 25 scholarships annually, along with external funding opportunities.
  • The DSS Center features a common room for relaxation and study, along with specialized equipment, and promotes universal design initiatives to improve campus accessibility.

Thammasat University is committed to creating an accessible, equitable, and inclusive environment for all students with disabilities through its Disability Support Services (DSS) Center. The center offers comprehensive support for students with mobility disabilities, hearing impairments, visual impairments, and more, ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed. Recognized for its “Students with Disabilities Project,” Thammasat University significantly enhances educational opportunities, leading to over 85% of graduates with disabilities securing employment each year and equipping them with essential skills for the labor market.

Key Services Offered by the DSS Center

1. Academic Counseling and Guidance

The DSS Center provides academic counseling not only to Thammasat students but also to high school students with disabilities. This support includes:

  • Guidance Sessions: Promoting the admission program and assisting high school students with disabilities during the examination process to ensure equal opportunities.
  • Preparation for University: Hosting orientation meetings for newly admitted students with disabilities, even offering online sessions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Training Programs: Providing relevant training, such as Microsoft Office workshops for students with vision impairments.

2. Assistive Devices and Instructional/Learning Materials

  • Customized Instructional Materials: The DSS Center provides course materials in formats that accommodate various disabilities, including braille for students with visual impairments and audiobooks for those with hearing impairments.
  • Assistive Devices: Every student with disabilities at Thammasat University has the right to necessary assistive devices. Each student receives a laptop and a voice recorder, along with additional tools based on their specific needs

3. Scholarships, Grants, and Internships

  • Scholarship Opportunities: The DSS Center offers around 25 scholarships each year, each valued at 55,000 baht (approximately US$1,500) for students with disabilities in need of financial assistance.
  • External Funding: The center actively seeks additional funding and scholarships from private and government agencies, including initiatives like the “Engineering Charity Golf 2022.”

4. Tutoring, Examination, Mentoring, and Service Center Common Room

  • Tutoring: There are English tutoring sessions by the teacher at the language center available for students with disabilities, and the center is planning on hosting more tutoring sessions in the future
  • Examination Accommodations: The center is responsible for preparing examination materials that are suitable for each student’s specific needs.
  • A Variety of Facilities Exclusively for Students with Disabilities: The center features an office area and a common room. The office includes four recording rooms and 28 computers with screen reader software and image magnification devices. Open Monday through Saturday, the common room is a space for academic activities and relaxation.

5. Dormitory and Buddies

  • Housing Support: The DSS Center ensures that every student with a disability who wishes to stay on campus is provided with a dormitory accommodation without exception.
  • Buddy System: Students can request a buddy or volunteer staff member for additional support, along with the provision of assistive devices tailored to their needs.

6. Physical Environment Enhancements

  • Universal Design Initiatives: The DSS Center promotes universal design in university buildings to improve accessibility. Over 20 projects have been implemented to enhance the physical environment, including ramps and accessible pathways.
  • Museum Accessibility Projects: Key projects focus on making museums accessible for blind visitors. This includes the installation of elevators and braille blocks, as well as using sound and touch to present exhibition objects. Audio descriptions are provided via guides or audio devices, and replicas of authentic objects are made available for a richer learning experience.

Innovative Engineering Solutions

In addition to the DSS efforts, the Faculty of Engineering has contributed innovative solutions:

  • Plug & Go Wheelchair: An award-winning design aimed at enhancing mobility for people with disabilities and seniors.
  • Electric Wheelchair Design: In 2022, another student team developed an electric wheelchair for paraplegics, receiving a gold award for innovative design.

The DSS Center at Thammasat University provides comprehensive support for students with mobility disabilities, hearing impairments, visual impairments, and more, ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed. Thammasat University is recognized for its “Students with Disabilities Project,” which enhances educational opportunities. with these efforts. Over 85% of graduates with disabilities find employment each year, equipping them with the necessary skills for the labor market.

For more information regarding the supports and services that the center provides, please refer to:
Support and Services of the Student Disability Center
This Able .Me

Related articles and websites:

  1. Universal Design – Equality for All (Aug,2022)
  2. Thammasat University Continuously Strives to Offer Excellent Support to Students with Disability
  3. Guidance Counseling project for High-school students with disabilities (Thai)
  4. Thailand’s First Wellbeing Plan for LGBTIQN+
by Natetida Bunnag -

Free Sexual Health Care for Students – Promote and Build Understanding of Safe Sex among Dormitory Students

Thammasat University is committed to promoting and safeguarding student sexual health through its Thammasat Well Being Center, established in 2019. As part of this initiative, the university plans to launch the “Sex Must Say” clinic in 2022, further enhancing its support for students.

To ensure comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, the university offers a range of ongoing services for both dormitory residents and off-campus students:

  1. Free HIV Screening: Conducted in collaboration with Thammasat University Hospital and the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand, providing crucial testing for all students.
  2. Essential Supplies: Distribution of free condoms, lubricant gel, and informative brochures to promote safe practices.
  3. Educational Resources: Offering free teaching materials, including organ models, to facilitate effective sexual health education and raise awareness through various media on safe sex, prevention of sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancies.
  4. Accessible Counseling Services: Students can receive free sexual health advice and support through the Thammasat Well Being Center’s Facebook page, ensuring they have access to the information and resources they need.

By prioritizing these services, Thammasat University is not only fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility but also empowering students to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

For more information on free sexual health care program and free counseling services, please visit Thammasat Well Being Center – Home Page

The Committee for the Promotion of Sexual Safety and Understanding (Sexual Safety Committee) also plays an important role in sexual health care education. The educational boards on safe sex practices showcasing various sexual hygiene tools was installed near the common room and Mikasa room in the faculty building. This initiative is accompanied by the provision of free condoms in the common room to promote sexual safety and raise awareness of safe sexual practices.

https://www.facebook.com/people/Thammasat-Well-Being-Center/100063544931301

by Natetida Bunnag -

Empowering Women through Campus Health Schemes

Highlights

  • The Free Sanitary Napkin Project provides essential sanitary products for female students and staff, recognizing menstruation as a necessity.
  • The project secured funding from the university, allowing for the distribution of approximately 1,600 pads in the academic year 2022.
  • Plans are in place to extend the project’s services to other faculties and administrative departments, enhancing support for women across the university.

The Free Sanitary Napkin Project, launched in the academic year 2021, addresses a critical need for women on campus during their monthly cycles. Menstruation is not a luxury; it’s a fundamental aspect of life that every woman faces. Recognizing this, the Faculty of Political Science’s Student Committee at Thammasat University established a service point offering both regular and hypoallergenic sanitary napkins, providing around 15 pads daily to female students and staff in need.

Understanding the importance of this initiative, the committee proposed it to Thammasat University’s administration, securing vital funding to sustain and expand the project each year. In the academic year 2022, the Faculty of Political Science’s Student Committee successfully obtained a budget to distribute approximately 1,600 pads to all students within the faculty.

Encouraged by its success, the project is now set to expand to other faculties and administrative departments at Thammasat University, transforming it into a crucial welfare service for women on campus. For women, menstruation is not a choice—it’s a natural part of life. By supporting this initiative, we ensure that all women have access to the sanitary products they need, empowering them to focus on their education without unnecessary barriers.