by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat’s Property and Sports Management Office Spearheads Campus Waste Revolution with ‘Project Zero Waste’ and Community Action

HIGHLIGTS

  • University-Wide Zero Waste Strategy: Project Zero Waste drives a holistic approach to waste management, aiming for “Zero Waste to Landfill” through source separation, system design, and community participation.
  • Innovative Behaviour Change Campaigns: The “Double Digit Days” initiative successfully turns waste separation into an engaging, lifestyle-driven activity, fostering long-term environmental awareness among students and staff.
  • Proven Scalability at Major Events: Implementation during Thammasat Games 2025 demonstrated the project’s effectiveness at scale, diverting significant amounts of food and recyclable waste from landfills.
  • Next-Step Climate Action: The initiative now expands into carbon credit accumulation, integrating waste reduction, tree planting, clean energy, and real-time transparency through the Thammasat Carbonfootprint platform.

Thammasat University is accelerating its transformation into a truly sustainable university, guided by a clear vision to reduce its environmental impact and embed sustainability into everyday campus life. At the forefront of this effort is the Property and Sports Management Office (PSM), which leads the university’s flagship environmental initiative, “Project Zero Waste.”

This comprehensive programme addresses waste management through a holistic, end-to-end approach—from encouraging waste separation at the source to achieving the ambitious long-term goal of “Zero Waste to Landfill.” Rather than focusing solely on waste disposal, PSM drives behavioural change through creative engagement, systematic processes, and community-wide participation. As a result, environmental responsibility has become a shared value across the Thammasat community, including students, staff, vendors, and event organisers.

From Waste Crisis to Sustainable Goals

The urgency behind Project Zero Waste emerged from a clear and pressing reality. In 2023, Thammasat University generated an average of 250 tonnes of waste per month, reflecting the scale of operations of a large, urban university campus. PSM recognised that conventional waste management methods would no longer suffice.

In response, the university established a clear and measurable target: “Zero Waste to Landfill.” This goal shifts the focus from simply managing waste to systematically reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills, while maximising reuse, recycling, and recovery. The initiative aligns closely with global sustainability frameworks, including the circular economy concept and climate action goals, positioning Thammasat as an institution willing to confront environmental challenges head-on.

“Double Digit Days”: A Strategy for Engagement

Understanding that lasting change begins with individual behaviour, PSM designed an innovative engagement strategy under the campaign “Separate Before You Throw… Bin it Right.” The campaign reframes waste separation not as a rule or obligation, but as an accessible and engaging daily habit.

To connect sustainability with student lifestyle, PSM drew inspiration from popular online shopping sales days and introduced activities on “Double Digit Days” such as 11.11 and 12.12. This creative concept emerged from close collaboration between PSM and the TU100 (Civic Engagement) course, led by Asst. Prof. Dr Prinya Thaewanarumitkul, which integrates civic responsibility into student learning.

The campaign debuted with the “11.11 Big Pro, Green Heart” event and quickly gained momentum, evolving into a highly anticipated monthly activity. Students and staff bring 1 kilogram of recyclable waste and exchange it for essential household items. This gamified approach transformed waste separation into a positive social activity, fostering cooperation, enjoyment, and shared responsibility rather than enforcement or compliance.

Scaling Up: Waste Management at “Thammasat Games 2025” 

The principles of “Separate Before You Throw” were put to the ultimate test during a mega-event: the “Thammasat Games 2025,” held earlier this year from 9–18 January 2025.

Managing waste for a major sporting event is a logistical challenge. PSM implemented a comprehensive waste management system covering 14 sports stadiums, market zones, and food service points.

Post-event data processing was rigorous. After the competitions ended each day, waste was immediately sorted and processed systematically. The results from the 10-day event provided clear, measurable data:

  • Food Waste: 2,790 kg (Diverted from landfill and sent for animal feed production).
  • Recyclable Waste: 2,045 kg (Sent to recycling facilities).
  • General Waste: 55,952 kg (Sent to sorting plants for proper disposal).

This success proves that Project Zero Waste is scalable. Whether it is daily campus life or a national-level sports event, the system works when managed effectively.

The Next Step: Carbon Credit Initiative 

The Property and Sports Management Office is not stopping at waste. It is now steering the university towards a Carbon Credit Accumulation Project.

This advanced phase integrates waste management with tree planting initiatives and the transition to clean energy. The aim is to systematically reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. In the spirit of transparency, the university has launched the Thammasat Carbonfootprint website, allowing the community to track and audit the university’s environmental data in real-time.

Cultivating a Culture of Sustainability 

Project Zero Waste has proven that solving environmental problems starts with small, individual actions that ripple out to create massive change. By fostering cooperation across the entire community, Thammasat University is ready to stand as a model educational institution that is genuinely committed to the planet.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Unlocking Mental Well-being with ‘TUHEART by TUH Psychiatry’: Your 24/7 AI Companion for Mental Health Screening and Initial Consultation

HIGHLIGHTS

  • 24/7 AI Mental Health Support: TUHEART is an always-on AI chatbot integrated with LINE, providing private, immediate mental health assistance anytime, without barriers or waiting times.
  • Intelligent Screening & Self-Care Guidance: The platform screens for stress, depression, anxiety, and insomnia, while offering practical self-management advice to help users take the first step toward better mental well-being.
  • Trusted Medical–Technology Collaboration: Developed through a cross-disciplinary partnership between psychiatry and engineering at Thammasat University, with collaboration from Mahidol University and Siriraj Hospital, ensuring medical reliability and technical excellence.
  • Inclusive, Free, and Confidential Access: Available at no cost to healthcare workers, the university community, and the general public, TUHEART expands equitable access to mental health support beyond campus boundaries.

In the midst of the digital age, while we are more connected than ever, many still face a silent struggle with their mental health. The challenge often lies in finding a dependable support system that is both easily accessible and strictly private.

Recognising this urgent need, Thammasat University Hospital (TUH) has leveraged technology to bridge the gap. Introducing “TUHEART,” an innovative AI-Chatbot developed by the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, designed to be a constant companion and a primary aid for anyone seeking to care for their mind.

‘TUHEART’: The Digital Companion That Never Sleeps 

TUHEART is not just software; it is a smart AI-Chatbotintegrated seamlessly into the LINE application, the most widely used communication platform in Thailand.

  • 24/7 Availability: Mental health crises do not keep office hours. TUHEART provides automated responses around the clock, ensuring that help is available whenever it is needed most.
  • Intelligent Screening: It functions as a digital frontline assessment tool. The bot is programmed to screen for common mental health issues such as Chronic Stress, Depression, Generalised Anxiety, and Insomnia.
  • Actionable Advice: Beyond screening, it offers initial consultation and practical self-management advice, empowering users to understand their emotions and take the first steps towards healing in a private, stigma-free environment.

Innovation Born from Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

The strength of TUHEART lies in its foundation of expertise. It is the product of a powerful synergy between medicine and engineering. This innovation was co-created by the Psychiatry Clinic at Thammasat University Hospital and the Faculty of Engineering at Thammasat University. Furthermore, it represents a significant cross-institutional collaboration, incorporating knowledge and networks from Mahidol University and the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital. This ensures that every line of code and every word of advice is backed by rigorous medical and technical standards.

Designed for Inclusivity: A Tool for ‘Everyone’ 

While TUHEART has been in service for some time, its core mission remains steadfast: to democratise access to mental health care. The platform is meticulously designed to serve three key groups without discrimination:

  1. Medical Personnel: Supporting the mental resilience of the doctors and nurses at Thammasat University Hospital who dedicate their lives to saving others.
  2. University Community: Acting as a safety net for the students and staff of Thammasat University, helping them navigate academic and professional pressures.
  3. The General Public: Crucially, this service extends beyond the campus walls. It is a testament to the university’s commitment to society, ensuring that every citizen has a digital avenue to seek help.

Accessible, Free, and Private 

Thammasat University stands firm on the principle that mental health support is a right, not a privilege. Therefore, financial constraints should never be a barrier to care.

TUHEART is completely FREE to use. With a simple scan of a QR Code via the LINE application, users can instantly initiate a conversation with a digital friend who is ready to listen and understand.

A Commitment to Sustainable Quality of Life 

The existence of TUHEART is a clear proof point that Thammasat University aims for more than just academic excellence. We are dedicated to creating innovations that elevate the quality of life and serve as a pillar of support for the people. We believe that a healthy society starts with a healthy mind.

“Because your heart matters, TUHEART is always by your side.”

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Promotes Labour Rights and Employee Participation: Building a Listening Culture through the Official “University Staff Council”

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Formal Mechanism for Employee Representation: Thammasat University ensures the freedom of association through the official establishment of the University Staff Council — a democratically elected body representing support staff, serving as a bridge between employees and management.
  • Promoting Dialogue and Fair Employment: The Staff Council plays a vital role in fostering constructive dialogue, offering policy recommendations, and safeguarding fairness in employment practices across all university units.
  • Equal Labour Rights for All: Thammasat upholds equal rights and non-discrimination for all staff — ensuring gender equality and guaranteeing that international employees receive the same welfare and benefits as Thai staff under University regulations.
  • Building a Culture of Listening and Inclusion: Through its commitment to participatory governance and respect for labour rights, Thammasat University strengthens a culture of listening, fairness, and shared responsibility — laying the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive academic community.

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Thammasat University believes that its people are the driving force behind its pursuit of excellence. Guided by this conviction, the University places the highest importance on promoting the freedom of association and ensuring that every employee’s voice is heard through formal and transparent mechanisms. While the University’s approach may differ from traditional “labour union” models, it has established the University Staff Council as an official employee representative body under University regulations. This council serves as a bridge between employees and management, fostering constructive dialogue and ensuring fairness in employment practices across the institution.

A Foundation of Respect for International Labour Rights

Thammasat’s employment policies are grounded in the recognition and respect of international labour rights. The University is committed to cultivating an organisational culture in which all personnel are treated fairly and can meaningfully participate in institutional decision-making. This includes upholding the freedom of association and the right to collective consultation through official representation mechanisms, ensuring that the voices of all staff—regardless of gender or nationality—are heard and integrated into the University’s sustainable development process.

The University Staff Council: A Guarantee of Participatory Rights

Thammasat University provides a tangible guarantee of employees’ freedom of association through the establishment of the University Staff Council—a democratically elected representative body for support staff. This process not only enables staff to elect their own representatives but also empowers those representatives to act as the collective voice of employees.

  • A channel for consultation and dialogue with management
    The Staff Council plays a vital role in advising and providing policy recommendations to senior management. This process represents a powerful form of “collective consultation”, allowing employee representatives to influence decisions related to workplace policies and conditions.
  • Protecting rights and fairness
    The Council has a key mandate to safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees in accordance with laws and University regulations.

Equal Labour Rights for All

The principle that labour rights must extend to every member of staff lies at the heart of Thammasat’s policy framework. The University ensures equal treatment and non-discrimination through clear and formal guarantees.

  • For Women
    Thammasat promotes gender equality across all dimensions of employment. Female staff have equal opportunities for career advancement, leadership, and representation within the Staff Council.
  • For International Staff
    Equality in rights and benefits for international employees is formally enshrined in the Thammasat University Regulation on the Employment of Foreign University Staff, B.E. 2560 (2017).
    Clause 14 explicitly states that:
    “Foreign university staff shall be entitled to the same welfare and benefits as prescribed in Clause 40 of the Thammasat University Regulation on the Personnel Administration of University Staff, B.E. 2559 (2016).”
    This regulation provides a legally binding guarantee that international staff receive the same entitlements and benefits as their Thai counterparts, affirming that nationality is no barrier to fair and equal treatment at Thammasat University.

Thammasat-University-Regulation-on-the-Employment-of-Foreign-University-Staff-B.E.-2560-2017

Thammasat University Regulation on the Employment of Foreign University Staff, B.E. 2560 (2017)

ข้อบังคับมหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ว่าด้วยการบริหารงานบุคคลพนักงานมหาวิทยาลัย-พ.ศ.-2559

Thammasat University Regulation on the Personnel Administration of University Staff, B.E. 2559 (2016)

A Culture of Fairness, Inclusion, and Mutual Respect

Thammasat University is committed to building a community in which every employee has the right to be heard and is treated fairly and equally. This commitment rests on two key pillars:

  1. Freedom of association, through a democratically elected Staff Council that represents employee voices; and
  2. Equal rights and fair treatment, formally guaranteed through written University regulations that cover all categories of personnel.

These pillars form the foundation of a culture of listening, respect, and participation—essential to nurturing a sustainable and inclusive Thammasat community for the future.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Unlocking the Doors to Knowledge: Thammasat Public Library Offers Free, Equal Access for All

True to its founding spirit as the “University for the People,” Thammasat University continues to translate its guiding philosophy into meaningful action. Since 1 July 2020, the Thammasat University Public Library at the Rangsit Centre has officially opened its doors to the general public, extending access to academic resources beyond the university community.

This initiative stands as a key pillar of the university’s Social Responsibility mission. Thammasat affirms that a modern university must serve not only as a centre of academic excellence, but also as a public institution that actively contributes knowledge, opportunity, and social value to the wider community.

More Than Just Books: A Sanctuary of Opportunity

The Thammasat University Public Library is far more than a traditional book collection. The university has intentionally designed the space as a “Space of Opportunity”—a shared learning environment that empowers individuals and communities through open access to knowledge.

In an era where educational resources often carry financial and institutional barriers, Thammasat takes a different approach. The university removes those obstacles entirely by offering the library’s services free of charge to the public. This commitment reflects a deep belief that knowledge should not be limited by economic status, academic affiliation, or social background.

Accessible, Simple, and Open to Everyone

The heart of this library is equality. We have stripped away complex membership processes to ensure that accessing knowledge is as easy as walking through the door.

Location: 2nd Floor, Puey Ungphakorn Centenary Hall (Puey Park for Learning) Thammasat University, Rangsit Centre
Service Fee: FREE for the general public.
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 08:30 – 16:00 (Closed on public holidays and national holidays)
How to Access: Access is simple and convenient. Visitors only need to present one form of identification to the staff at the entrance:

  • National ID Card (for Thai citizens)
  • Passport (for International visitors)

This simplified entry process reflects our clear intention: to welcome and facilitate every citizen without bureaucracy.

A Hub for Lifelong Learning

The establishment of the Public Library at the Rangsit Centre marks a significant expansion of Thammasat’s academic services to the wider society.

It does not matter who you are—a student from another institution, a resident living in the neighbourhood, or simply a lifelong learner seeking inspiration—this space is yours. It is a quiet, inspiring environment perfect for reading, researching, or reviewing knowledge.

Investing in the Future 

This project goes beyond promoting a culture of reading; it is a sustainable investment in the country’s Human Capital. By providing free access to information, we are laying the foundation for social development in every dimension.

Thammasat University stands firm on the principle that “Education must be accessible to all.” The operation of the Thammasat University Public Library is the clearest proof of that resolve—transforming a vision into a practical reality that yields real benefits for society.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Drives Industrial Energy Efficiency and Net Zero Goals Through Direct Support

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Driving Industrial Decarbonisation: Thammasat University’s Centre of Excellence in Eco-Energy (CEEE) delivers direct technical services and consultancy to help Thai industries enhance energy efficiency and meet ambitious Net Zero goals.
  • Strategic Collaboration with TGO: In partnership with the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organisation, CEEE provides hands-on workshops and capacity-building programmes for local industries and entrepreneurs.
  • EEC Project for Carbon Management: CEEE leads training in Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao under the Eastern Economic Corridor initiative, enabling factories to use the national CFO Platform for accurate carbon footprint assessment.
  • Flexible Support Model: Thammasat combines free national initiatives with paid professional training courses, such as certified Carbon Footprint of Organisation (CFO) programmes, making expert guidance accessible across all sectors.

The Centre of Excellence in Eco-Energy (CEEE) at Thammasat University’s Faculty of Engineering is actively providing direct services to Thailand’s industrial sector, helping companies improve energy management and achieve ambitious decarbonisation targets.

CEEE acts as a key project manager and expert consultant for crucial national initiatives. In close collaboration with the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organisation (TGO), the Centre provides technical services and capacity-building workshops aimed directly at local industry and entrepreneurs.

One major initiative involves managing a project to enhance the capabilities of industrial plants within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). This direct support focuses on training operators in the Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao provinces to use the national “CFO Platform.” This service enables companies to assess their carbon footprint accurately and implement effective greenhouse gas management strategies.

The ultimate goal of this expert support is to guide businesses in setting Science Based Targets (SBT) and developing clear pathways toward Net Zero. This process is intrinsically linked to improving energy efficiency and identifying opportunities for adopting cleaner energy alternatives.

Beyond these sponsored projects, CEEE offers its expertise through commercially available, in-depth training programmes. For instance, specialised courses on calculating the ‘Carbon Footprint of Organization (CFO)’ are offered to professionals seeking certified skills. In these fee-based programmes, personnel from Thammasat University serve as the primary instructors, delivering expert-led training (as detailed at Carbon Footprint for Organization: CFO) for organisations investing in their sustainability capabilities.

This hybrid approach demonstrates Thammasat’s flexible commitment. While many large-scale initiatives are provided free of charge to participating companies, CEEE also provides specialised, paid-for courses, ensuring that direct services are accessible to all parts of local industry driving the Net Zero transition.

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Drives Global Sustainability Dialogue and Best Practice Development in 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Co-hosted the “SMU City Dialogues Bangkok” with Singapore Management University to review comparative approaches and share lessons learned on secondary city development in Southeast Asia, promoting sustainable urban policy innovation.
  • Served as an Association Partner for the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2024, advancing global dialogue on sustainability research and the role of higher education in achieving the SDGs.
  • Participated in the 15th International Academic Consortium of Sustainable Cities Conference in Manila to exchange research findings and collaboratively develop international best practices for building resilient and sustainable urban environments.

Thammasat University demonstrated its deep commitment to tackling the SDGs throughout 2024 by leading and participating in high-level international collaboration and research forums aimed at developing sustainable solutions.

On 9 May 2024, Thammasat University (TU) co-hosted the “SMU City Dialogues Bangkok” with Singapore Management University (SMU). This forum convened leaders from industry, government, and academia to review comparative approaches and explore lessons learned regarding the development of secondary cities in Southeast Asia. The dialogue was aimed at advancing innovative solutions and influencing policy for sustainable urban growth.

Read more: https://tu.ac.th/en/thammasat-160567-tds-smu-city-dialogues-growing-asias-secondary-cities

In its capacity as SDSN Thailand, co-hosted by the Centre for SDG Research and Support (SDG Move), Thammasat University, also served as a key Association Partner for the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2024, held in Bangkok from 10 to 13 June 2024. This major congress brought together global experts and innovators to share solutions and emphasize the role of higher education in research and development, fostering a global consensus on sustainability strategies.

Furthering this commitment, the university participated in the 15th International Academic Consortium of Sustainable Cities Conference in Manila, Philippines. This consortium, co-hosted by institutions from the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia, operated under the theme “Sustainable and Resilient Future Cities through Research and Innovation.”

The conference served as a vital platform to review comparative approaches based on new research findings in public health, environmental health, and urban planning. Through dedicated plenary sessions, experts engaged in a critical exchange of ideas aimed at helping to develop international best practice for creating resilient and sustainable urban environments.

Thammasat University’s participation in these forums highlights its dedication to fostering global partnerships and utilizing research to address the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University Launches Clean Energy Learning Hub for the Community

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Launch of Clean Energy Learning Hub: Thammasat University, in partnership with Solartron PCL, established the Clean Energy Innovation Learning Center at Rangsit Campus, open to the public and university community.
  • Educational Focus: The center provides programmes and resources on sustainable solutions, climate change adaptation, and clean energy innovations.
  • Supporting Sustainable Smart City Vision: The initiative aligns with Thammasat’s broader goals, including solar rooftop installations and a 100% electric shuttle bus fleet on campus.
  • Community Engagement: The hub encourages visitors to learn, explore, and participate in advancing a cleaner, more sustainable future.

As part of its steadfast commitment to sustainability, Thammasat University, in collaboration with Solartron PCL, has established the “Clean Energy Innovation Learning Center” at its Rangsit Campus. This new hub is a vital educational resource, open to the Thammasat community, the general public, and all interested individuals since May 2024.

The centre’s primary mission is to provide educational sources and access to information for the wider community. It offers a dedicated space for visitors to learn about sustainable solutions, explore the importance of adapting to climate change, and understand the innovations driving both clean energy production and energy efficiency.

This initiative is a key component of Thammasat’s wider vision to serve as a model for a ‘Sustainable Smart City’. It complements the university’s existing practical commitments, which include the large-scale installation of solar rooftops and the operation of a 100% electric (EV) shuttle bus fleet on campus.

The Clean Energy Innovation Learning Center invites everyone to visit, learn, and join the conversation on building a cleaner, more sustainable future.

by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat Champions the Fight for ‘Clean Air’: Mobilising Knowledge, Innovation, and Law to Ensure Every Thai Can Breathe Freely

“Clean air is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right.”

On the occasion of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies (7 September), Thammasat University—standing firm as the “University for the People”—reaffirms its commitment to tackling the invisible crisis of air pollution. We are deploying our full arsenal of academic knowledge, expert insights, and tangible action to drive the national ‘Clean Air’ agenda into reality.

Thammasat is moving beyond the classroom to spearhead change through three strategic pillars:

1. The ‘Thammasat Smart City’ Model: Leading by Example

(Action & Infrastructure)

We believe that change must begin at home. Thammasat has transformed its campus into a “Living Lab” for sustainability under the “Thammasat Smart City” initiative, proving that a low-carbon society is possible.

  • Renewable Energy: We have installed the largest urban rooftop solar system in Asia, drastically reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Green Innovation: The Thammasat University Rooftop Farm (TURF) acts as a model for urban climate adaptation, absorbing heat, filtering air, and providing organic food simultaneously.
  • Decarbonising Transport: We have overhauled our campus mobility with a fleet of EV Buses, actively reducing tailpipe emissions at the source.

2. The ‘Intelligence Unit’: Big Data & Public Health

(Research & Innovation)

To solve the PM2.5 crisis, we need precise data. The Faculty of Public Health has established the Coordination Centre for Clean Air and Climate Change (CCCACC)—the first centre of its kind in Thailand. Acting as the nation’s “Brain,” the centre is led by experts like Dr Supat Wangwongwatana, who has been granted funding to establish a “Hub of Talents.” His team is developing a national Big Data system for PM2.5. This initiative moves beyond simple monitoring; it aims to analyse, predict, and manage air quality crises with scientific precision, protecting the health of the population.

3. The ‘Legal Shield’: Pushing for the Clean Air Act

(Policy & Law)

Perhaps the most critical battleground is the law. The Natural Resources and Environmental Law Centre at the Faculty of Law is serving as the spearhead for structural change. Associate Professor Dr Surasak Boonruang, a leading legal expert, has played a pivotal role in drafting and advocating for the “Clean Air Act (Citizen’s Draft).” This legislation is crucial. It aims to elevate clean air from a policy promise to a legally guaranteed right, establishing clear accountability and mechanisms to tackle pollution across the country.

A Unified Breath for the Future

These initiatives are but a fraction of Thammasat’s dedication. By uniting the power of administrators, academics, and students, we are sending a powerful message: We will not stop until the haze clears. We are building a future where every Thai citizen can look up at a blue sky and breathe in fully, safely, and without fear.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Learning for Sustainability: Thammasat’s Interdisciplinary Integrated SDG Curricula

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Global Recognition: Ranked 64th worldwide in the THE Impact Rankings 2025, marking Thammasat’s second consecutive year in the global Top 100.
  • Interdisciplinary Integration: By 2027, 90% of undergraduate programmes will embed SDG-related knowledge, making sustainability a core lens for every graduate.
  • Innovative Pathways: Flagship programmes such as SUMA, SGS, SCI-TU, and PSDS equip students to become leaders in sustainable management, social innovation, technology, and community development.
  • Accessible Sustainability Learning: General education courses such as TU103 Life and Sustainability is open to all students, ensuring opportunities to build sustainability literacy across every discipline.

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In an era where the world faces increasingly complex environmental, social, and economic challenges, knowledge of sustainable development has become central to shaping the leaders of the future. Thammasat University has reaffirmed its position as a leading academic institution committed to advancing this agenda in earnest. This is reflected in its recent achievement of being ranked among the world’s Top 100 in the THE Impact Rankings 2025 for the second consecutive year, moving up to 64th globally. This stands as concrete proof of the University’s vision to be a “World-Class University for the People”—not merely a slogan, but a principle put into practice.

Behind this success lies a clear strategy: embedding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into Thammasat University Strategic Development Plan No. 13 (2022–2027). For Thammasat, sustainability is not simply a discipline, but a “lens” through which every graduate, regardless of faculty, must view the world. To achieve this, the University has designed a diverse learning ecosystem that connects knowledge across disciplines.

Multiple Pathways to Sustainability: Thammasat’s Approach to the Future

Thammasat recognises that multiple professional fields can contribute to advancing sustainability. Accordingly, the University has designed its curricula with varied pathways to match the diverse interests and aptitudes of students. The following are key examples of this approach:

1. The Leadership Pathway: SUMA
Thammasat’s flagship new programme is the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management (SUMA), designed to meet the demands of a business world increasingly focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). This interdisciplinary programme is a collaboration between five key units: the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, the Faculty of Social Administration, the Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies, the Faculty of Science and Technology, and the Faculty of Engineering.
Its unique strength lies in producing professional sustainability managers with expertise spanning circular economy, green finance, and the use of AI for sustainability. With a strong emphasis on practical learning, including no fewer than 1,000 internship hours, it equips graduates to become leaders in business and organisational sustainability.

2. The Global Change-Maker Pathway: School of Global Studies (SGS)
The School of Global Studies serves as a hub for students interested in the social, political, and economic dimensions of sustainability from a global perspective. It also acts as a regional leader in social innovation. At undergraduate level, it offers programmes in global studies and social entrepreneurship, preparing students to develop 21st-century skills through courses such as Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and Human-Centred Design for Social Innovation. At postgraduate level, the programmes in Social Innovation and Sustainability train practitioners and researchers to tackle global challenges directly through the SDG framework, with courses such as Sustainability and the Global Political Economy.

3. The Technology Innovator Pathway: Faculty of Science and Technology (SCI-TU)
The Faculty offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Sustainable Development Technology. These are designed for those wishing to address sustainability challenges through science and technology, with a philosophy rooted in the Sufficiency Economy. Students gain strong foundations in mathematics and science, enabling them to create innovations that respond to global needs.

4. The Social Development Pathway: Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies (PSDS)
This pathway is ideal for students focused on community development, social justice, and public policy. The School aligns its mission with all 17 SDGs, producing graduates with strong public consciousness. Beyond degree programmes, it also provides specialised training for professionals, such as the Executive Programme in Sustainable Organisational Transition and courses in Social Impact Assessment (SIA/SROI).
Additionally, PSDS has pioneered the teaching of Introduction to ESG (ESG 101), in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand, to build essential ESG knowledge for all students.

Weaving Sustainability into the DNA of Every Graduate

Perhaps the clearest testament to Thammasat’s commitment is its policy of embedding sustainability into the very foundation of every student’s education through an “inclusive integration” approach. The 13th Strategic Plan sets an ambitious target: by 2027, 90% of Thammasat’s undergraduate programmes must incorporate SDG-related knowledge into their curricula.

In practice, students from all faculties are offered opportunities to study foundational general education courses such as TU103 Life and Sustainability and Introduction to ESG, providing essential entry points into sustainability knowledge. Deeper engagement is also encouraged through specialised electives and cross-disciplinary minors. For example, the Faculty of Science and Technology offers courses such as Environment and Sustainable Development and Carbon Trading, while the Faculty of Social Administration offers a minor in Community Development, allowing students from other faculties to acquire grassroots development skills.

This strategy ensures that every Thammasat graduate—whether an accountant, engineer, or journalist—carries with them a foundation of sustainability literacy, equipping them to become agents of change across all sectors of society.

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by Natetida Bunnag -

Thammasat University’s Wage Policy: A Commitment to Sustainable People Care and Decent Employment

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Above-Standard Pay Structure: Thammasat University’s salary scale for all staff ranks exceeds national minimum-wage and poverty-line benchmarks, ensuring fair and competitive compensation.
  • Commitment to a Living Wage: Every entry-level position meets or surpasses the Global Living Wage Coalition (GLWC) estimate for urban Thailand, enabling employees to live with dignity and financial security.
  • Inclusive Wage Policy: The University’s remuneration framework covers all categories of personnel—academic, professional, supporting, and technical—reflecting an institutional commitment to equality and well-being.
  • Advancing SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: By embedding decent employment and fair pay into its governance system, Thammasat strengthens its role as a national model for sustainable and equitable employment practices.

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Under its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth—Thammasat University prioritises creating a secure and high-quality working environment through a fair employment policy. The University establishes competitive pay scales that exceed national benchmarks across multiple qualification levels, reinforcing its dedication to equity and well-being in the workplace.

Fair and Adequate Remuneration for a Quality Start in Employment

A key feature reflecting the University’s commitment is its starting salary for bachelor’s degree holders. For professional and specialised positions, the entry-level rate is set at THB 21,250 per month, while for academic positions (lecturers), it begins at THB 23,500 per month. Both rates are significantly higher than key national financial indicators.

This policy demonstrates Thammasat’s concrete commitment to ensuring that graduates entering employment can begin their professional journey with a fair and dignified wage that supports a reasonable quality of life.

Comparison with National Benchmarks

When compared against major national standards, Thammasat’s salary structure stands out clearly:

  • Minimum Wage
    As of 1 July 2025, the government-set minimum wage for Bangkok is THB 400 per day, equivalent to approximately THB 12,000 per month. Even the University’s lowest entry-level wage exceeds this threshold.
  • Poverty Line
    The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has set the 2024 poverty line at THB 3,078 per person per month. For a four-person household, this equates to THB 12,312 per month—still below Thammasat’s lowest entry-level pay.

From the “Minimum Wage” to a “Living Wage” for a Dignified Life

Beyond compliance with minimum national standards, Thammasat University takes a further step by adopting the concept of the “Living Wage”—a remuneration level sufficient to cover a household’s essential living costs, including food, housing, healthcare, education, transport, and other necessities, ensuring that employees can live, not merely survive.

According to the Global Living Wage Coalition (GLWC), the estimated living wage for urban areas in Thailand is approximately THB 14,324 per month. When compared with Thammasat’s salary structure, it is evident that all entry-level positions exceed this benchmark, reaffirming the University’s commitment to ensuring that its personnel enjoy a decent and quality standard of living.

Inclusive Care: Safeguarding the Well-being of All Staff

Thammasat’s commitment extends beyond academic and professional positions to include supporting staff at all qualification levels (based on the 2024 pay rate announcement):

  • Vocational Certificate
    Starting salary THB 12,690 per month, higher than both the national minimum wage and the household poverty line.
  • Higher Vocational Certificate
    Starting salary THB 15,530 per month, surpassing basic national benchmarks and approaching the living wage standard.

Building a Foundation for Sustainable Well-being

Thammasat University’s remuneration policy represents more than the payment of salaries—it reflects a long-term investment in the quality of life and stability of its people and their families.

This policy not only aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals but also serves as a strategic instrument for attracting and retaining high-quality personnel, ensuring that the University community continues to grow and thrive sustainably together.

Reference: Thammasat University Announcement on Rates of Minimum and Maximum Pay for the University Staff Salary Scale, B.E. 2567 (2024).

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