Thammasat University ranking in the THE Impact Ranking 2025 improved significantly. It is ranked 64th from 2526 institutions. It also performs exceptionally well in SDG 16 peace justice and strong institutions (1st in Thailand and 4th worldwide), SDG 5 gender equality (2nd in Thailand and 5th worldwide), SDG 11 sustainable cities and communities (2nd in Thailand and 38th worldwide), and SDG 17 partnership for the goals (6th in Thailand and 62nd worldwide).

---

Thammasat At a Glance provides overview of basic information of Thammasat University and its environmental sustainability performance, such as energy usage, renewable energy usage, water usage, waste recycling rate, carbon footprint reduction, and total bike-sharing distance.

---

Thammasat University’s suite of 14 sustainability policies presents a comprehensive and deeply interlinked framework, demonstrating a robust commitment to sustainable development. This framework can be understood through three core pillars that align with the university’s core mission and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The first and most extensive pillar is The “Green” Pillar (Environment & Operations). This group of policies reflects a determined focus on managing the university’s physical and environmental footprint. It covers the full spectrum of operations, from the high-level aspirational goal of achieving Net Zero emissions ¹ to tangible, everyday actions like waste management, the elimination of single-use plastics, and energy conservation. Critically, this pillar leverages the university’s institutional power through a “Sustainable Public Procurement” policy², using its purchasing power as a key lever to drive the market for sustainable goods and services.

The second pillar, The “Social & Inclusion” Pillar, powerfully reaffirms the university’s “For the People” ethos. This set of policies establishes a progressive and modern framework for non-discrimination, explicitly protecting marginalized communities, including LGBTIQA+ individuals ³ and persons with disabilities. This commitment is extended and operationalized through new policies on “Fair Employment,” which notably includes protections for outsourced staff and a “Lifelong Learning” policy. This second policy aims to fully realize the university’s original “market for knowledge” spirit, making education accessible to all via mechanisms like a “Credit Bank”.

The final pillar, The “Core Mission & Governance” Pillar, integrates sustainability directly into the university’s primary functions: teaching and research. This pillar strikes a careful balance between upholding the foundational principle of “Academic Freedom” ⁴ and ensuring institutional responsibility. Simultaneously, it addresses fundamental governance and welfare issues, such as ensuring a “Non-smoking Area” ⁵and promoting “Pedestrian Safety” ⁶ to create a safe and healthy campus environment for the entire community.

Together, these 14 policies do not function in isolation; they are designed to be mutually reinforcing (e.g., procurement policy supports energy policy), creating a holistic ecosystem for sustainability at Thammasat University.

Summary of the 14 Sustainability Policies

Pillars	Policies
The “Green” Pillar (Environment & Operations)	1. Policy on Environmental Management 2. Policy on Net Zero Emissions 3. Policy on Energy Conservation (Framework) 4. Policy on Energy Conservation (Measures) 5. Policy on Solid Waste Management 6. Policy on No Single-Use Plastic 7. Policy on Sustainable Public Procurement
The “Social & Inclusion” Pillar	8. Policy on Gender Equality and Non-discrimination 9. (Draft) Policy on Fair and Good Governance Employment 10. Policy on Disability and Reasonable Accommodation 11. (Draft) Policy on Lifelong Learning
The “Core Mission & Governance” Pillar	12. Policy on Academic Freedom 13. Policy on Pedestrian Safety 14. Policy on Designated Thammasat University as a Non-smoking Area

---

SDG 11 in Numbers

---

Research in SDG 11

Based on an analysis of 525 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has established a comprehensive research agenda addressing SDG 11. The university’s work provides a critical evidence base for creating inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban environments, with a strong focus on the challenges facing Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian region. The research is organized around several key pillars:

1. Urban Planning, Governance, and Smart Cities: A significant portion of the research focuses on the foundational principles of urban planning and governance. This includes studies on managing urban sprawl, particularly in Bangkok, and advancing the “smart city” concept by integrating technology to enhance sustainability and well-being. This work is complemented by research into transit-oriented development (TOD) to create more walkable and accessible communities.
   
2. Environmental Management and Climate Resilience: This core theme addresses the environmental pressures of urbanization. Research is concentrated on pollution control, with studies quantifying air pollution from traffic (PM2.5), assessing water quality and microplastic contamination, and developing sustainable municipal solid waste management strategies, including waste-to-energy systems. A closely related pillar focuses on Climate Resilience and Disaster Risk Management. Given the regional context, this includes extensive research on flood management and forecasting, the urban heat island effect, seismic hazards, and the application of Nature-Based Solutions to build urban resilience.
   
3. Sustainable Mobility and Social Equity: The university also conducts extensive research on Sustainable Transportation and Mobility, analyzing commuter behavior, optimizing transport infrastructure, and exploring the integration of emerging technologies like electric and autonomous vehicles. This is linked to a human-centered approach focused on Health, Well-being, and Social Equity, which examines the public health impacts of urban design and advocates for inclusive planning that addresses the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, older adults, and people with disabilities.

Synthesis and Impact 

Across all themes, the research portfolio is characterized by its deep engagement with the specific challenges of the Bangkok Metropolitan Region and other Thai cities. This applied focus is amplified by robust collaborative networks with both domestic and international institutions. By leveraging data-driven solutions and technological innovation, Thammasat University’s research provides essential insights for policymakers, positioning it as a key partner in building a sustainable urban future for Thailand and beyond.

---

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 11

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated a comprehensive and deep-seated commitment to SDG 11 through a focused portfolio of over 180 academic and social service initiatives. These wide-ranging efforts underscore the university’s role as a key partner in national development, addressing the multifaceted challenges of urbanization and community life through direct, tangible action. The activities can be broadly categorized into four interconnected clusters:

1. Preserving Cultural Heritage and Strengthening Community Identity (approx. 65 activities)
   A primary focus was dedicated to safeguarding Thailand’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Numerous faculties and institutes, including Sociology and Anthropology, Fine and Applied Arts, and the Thai Khadi Research Institute, led projects on this front. Initiatives included the digital documentation and promotion of intangible heritage such as the Songkran festival, developing community-based museums, preserving traditional arts and crafts, and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges. These activities aimed to strengthen community identity and ensure that cultural assets are preserved for future generations.
   
2. Fostering Community Development and Economic Resilience (approx. 70 activities)
   The university was heavily invested in empowering local communities. A significant thrust, particularly from the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, involved providing consultancy and support to over 25 local community enterprises (วิสาหกิจชุมชน), ranging from organic agriculture and eco-tourism to local handicrafts. This was complemented by extensive training courses for community developers run by the Faculty of Social Administration, initiatives to establish community welfare funds, and programs promoting active citizenship, thereby equipping residents with the tools to drive their own sustainable economic growth.
   
3. Sustainable Urban Planning and Resilient Infrastructure (approx. 20 activities)
   Addressing the physical and environmental aspects of urban life, faculties like Architecture and Planning, Engineering, and Public Health led critical initiatives. These included projects focused on improving road safety, developing disaster-resilient infrastructure (such as earthquake-resistant building design), creating sustainable urban transport solutions, and tackling environmental pollution through research on mitigating PM2.5 air quality issues and promoting effective community-based waste management systems.
   
4. Building Inclusive, Safe, and Healthy Communities (approx. 30 activities)
   A cross-cutting theme was the creation of communities that are safe and inclusive for all residents. This involved numerous public health outreach programs, community first-aid and CPR training sessions led by the health science faculties, and projects by the Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies to empower the elderly, ensuring their active participation in urban life. These efforts collectively aimed to enhance the quality of life, safety, and well-being of all community members.

---

Featured Stories

Thammasat University continues to demonstrate its commitment to cultural preservation and community resilience through exhibitions, research, and inclusive development initiatives that connect heritage with sustainability.

Preserving Cultural Heritage and Knowledge

The museum further supports knowledge and language preservation through the 3rd National Academic Conference on Museums and Cultural Heritage, which emphasized Southeast Asian cultural studies and encouraged bilingual dialogue. Its research cluster, “Trade Routes and Cultural Heritage,” organized fieldwork, seminars, and workshops featuring international experts such as Professor Jonathan Mark Kenoyer under the Fulbright Specialist Program.

Building Local Resilience and Sustainable Support

Previous Chapter | Back to the Report Page | Next Chapter

SDG 10 in Numbers

---

Research in SDG 10

Based on an analysis of 218 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University’s research on SDG 10 meticulously dissects the issue’s complex social, spatial, and political dimensions. This body of work is distinguished by its consistent and deep focus on vulnerable populations, with the university’s scholarship organized into several key, interconnected clusters that explore the systemic challenges these groups face and the structural forces that perpetuate inequality:

1. Health Equity and Social Justice: A primary and substantial research area is Health Equity and Social Justice. This work moves beyond broad statistics to investigate the tangible disparities in healthcare access for marginalized groups like migrants, the elderly, and prisoners, who often face significant barriers to essential services. It examines the disproportionate and often severe impacts of health crises on these communities. This cluster is deeply intertwined with inequalities rooted in social identity, directly addressing the advancement of LGBT+ rights, the pervasive societal issue of gender-based violence, and the critical need for inclusive education. This research provides evidence-based pathways for transforming systems to better serve communities in remote border regions or those with disabilities, ensuring they are not left behind.
   
2. Economic, Spatial, and Policy Dimensions: Another key focus is on Economic, Spatial, and Policy Dimensions. This research analyzes the foundational economic structures that drive inequality, such as the persistent gender wage gap and the influence of corporate governance on employee welfare and rights. The portfolio also investigates Urban and Spatial Disparities, exploring how inequality is physically produced and reinforced in cities. This includes a focus on inclusive city planning, the critical importance of accessibility for social participation by people with disabilities, and the enduring challenges of providing safe and adequate low-income housing. At a macro level, research on Governance and Policy evaluates the effectiveness of national social policies and explores the regional implications of disruptive financial technologies and complex international relations, connecting high-level frameworks to real-world outcomes.

Synthesis and Impact

Across all themes, the research consistently centers on the lived experiences of vulnerable populations, including migrants, women, LGBT+ communities, older adults, and people with disabilities. This dedicated focus ensures the work is grounded in real-world challenges. With a strong geographical concentration on Thailand and the broader ASEAN region, this extensive body of work provides a critical and nuanced evidence base for more equitable and effective policymaking. This ultimately positions Thammasat as a key regional knowledge hub, actively shaping academic discourse and informing policy aimed at reducing inequalities.

---

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 10

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated a profound and expanded commitment to SDG 10, launching 10 pivotal academic and social service initiatives. Recognizing its historical and ongoing role in shaping a more inclusive Thailand, the university’s efforts were strategically designed to tackle inequality on multiple fronts. This dual strategy, which combines high-level advocacy for systemic legal change with grassroots support for marginalized populations, reflects a comprehensive approach to fostering a truly just and equitable society. The initiatives were organized into two deeply interconnected clusters:

1. Legal Reform and Policy Advocacy for Structural Equality (approx. 3 initiatives)
   A significant focus was placed on advocating for foundational legal reforms to dismantle long-standing structural inequality, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ rights and gender justice. The Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies and the Faculty of Law hosted crucial public seminars analyzing the landmark Marriage Equality Act, the Gender Equality Act, and their far-reaching implications for areas such as criminal law, civil rights, inheritance, and medical decision-making.
   
   These high-level discussions served as vital platforms, bringing together leading academics, civil society activists, legal experts, and community representatives. The objective was not only to inform and shape public opinion but also to provide robust, evidence-based arguments to influence policymakers and government agencies. By acting as a catalyst for national dialogue, Thammasat championed the modernization of legal frameworks, working to ensure they guarantee the dignity, security, and rights of all individuals and addressing inequality at its very source.
   
2. Empowerment and Inclusion for Vulnerable & Marginalized Groups (approx. 7 initiatives)
   Complementing this policy-level work, the university undertook a diverse range of projects aimed at the direct empowerment and meaningful inclusion of specific vulnerable populations. These initiatives moved beyond simple aid, focusing instead on building capacity and fostering self-advocacy. Key projects actively promoted disability rights and accessibility, such as producing high-quality audiobooks of significant cultural texts to democratize access to knowledge for the visually impaired, and collaborating with museums to adapt exhibitions to be fully accessible with tactile displays and multi-sensory elements.
   
   Other projects addressed the complex and intersecting socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by ethnic minorities and remote communities, particularly those in border regions who are disproportionately affected by climate change and face issues of land rights and cultural preservation. Through dedicated seminars on “breaking down marginalization” and practical workshops aimed at reducing educational disparities, the university actively worked to amplify historically silenced voices, challenge societal prejudices, and create tangible pathways for their full and meaningful participation in the economic, social, and political life of the nation.

---

Featured Stories

Developing Creative Media Guidelines for Gender Equality

Inter-institutional Collaboration in Advanced Medical Education through Clinical Sexology and Sexual Medicine Programs

Promoting Inclusive Higher Education

Thammasat University hosted a training program, in partnership with MHESI, focused on promoting the potential development of students with disabilities in higher education, involving 31 institutions. Committed to being a “People University,” TU seeks to create educational equality for all groups in society. The project’s goal is to develop essential skills for learning, living, and working, ensuring students with disabilities become high-quality graduates. TU prioritizes these students’ development through training supervised by the Disability Student Services Center. Workshops covered topics such as ‘Skill Development through Music Therapy Activities,’ ‘Ikigai,’ and ‘Promoting the Well-being of Students with Disabilities’

Previous Chapter | Back to the Report Page | Next Chapter

SDG 9 in Numbers

---

Research in SDG 9

Based on a detailed analysis of 685 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has cultivated a comprehensive and impactful research agenda focused on SDG 9. This body of work directly informs and supports Thailand’s key national strategies, such as the ‘Thailand 4.0’ initiative, by bridging the critical gap between technological innovation and sustainable industrial practice through four primary, interconnected research pillars:

1. Digital Transformation of Industry and Supply Chains: A significant area of focus is on Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation, where research investigates the practical adoption of technologies like Al, loT, and digital twins. The goal is to enhance the competitiveness and efficiency of Thailand’s manufacturing sector by embedding intelligence into production processes. This technological push is intrinsically linked to the university’s work on Sustainable Supply Chains and the Circular Economy.
   
   This research moves beyond traditional logistics to explore how green practices, resource optimization through remanufacturing, and transparent systems using technologies like blockchain can build more resilient and environmentally sound value chains, which is particularly vital for key Thai industries like automotive and agriculture in a globally interconnected market.
   
   
2. Sustainable Infrastructure and Climate Mitigation: The second core research area centers on Sustainable Infrastructure and Advanced Materials. A standout strength within this pillar is the intensive focus on waste valorization—the innovative process of transforming industrial and municipal byproducts, such as fly ash from power plants and sludge from water treatment, into durable, eco-friendly construction materials like green concrete and geopolymers. This circular approach directly reduces landfill waste and the carbon footprint of the construction industry. This ties directly into the high-level pillar of Energy Systems and Climate Mitigation, where the university’s research provides an essential evidence base for national policy. This includes sophisticated modeling of Thailand’s long-term decarbonization pathways, which is critical for guiding strategic investments and policy decisions to meet ambitious net-zero emissions targets, alongside feasibility studies of vital technologies like carbon capture and waste-to-energy systems.

Synthesis and Impact

Across all research themes, the portfolio maintains a strong and deliberate geographical focus on Thailand’s most pressing national challenges, providing targeted analysis for major development projects like the Eastern Economic Corridor. Simultaneously, it addresses systemic issues relevant to the broader ASEAN region. The work effectively engages a wide spectrum of stakeholders, from government policymakers and large manufacturing firms to the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of the economy, and the local communities impacted by development. This impactful research is amplified by a robust network of both national and international collaborations, solidifying Thammasat University’s position as a crucial knowledge hub that is actively driving the future of sustainable industrial development and innovation in Thailand.

---

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 9

In recent years, with a significant concentration of efforts in 2024, Thammasat University has championed SDG 9 by launching over 210 distinct academic and social service initiatives. These programs were strategically focused on advancing Thailand’s industrial capabilities, fostering a robust innovation ecosystem, and promoting the development of resilient infrastructure. The initiatives were broadly organized into three interconnected clusters:

1. Digital Transformation and Technological Innovation (approx. 100 initiatives)
   The university placed a strong emphasis on preparing Thailand for the digital economy. A vast number of workshops, seminars, and training programs were conducted on cutting-edge technologies. These included extensive training on Artificial Intelligence (Al) and its applications (e.g., ChatGPT, Generative Al), Al ethics, blockchain technology, digital marketing, and data analytics. Faculties such as Engineering, Economics, and the Office of Advanced Science and Technology led these efforts, providing crucial upskilling for students, academics, and professionals. Initiatives also focused on developing digital infrastructure, such as product traceability systems (TRACETHAI.com) and digital governance frameworks for public sector agencies.
   
2. Sustainable Industry and Resilient Infrastructure (approx. 50 initiatives)
   Thammasat actively supported the modernization and sustainability of Thai industries. The Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT) conducted workshops on electric vehicle (EV) technology, while the Faculty of Engineering provided consultancy on implementing Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced manufacturing technologies for the agro-processing sector. Furthermore, the university contributed to building resilient infrastructure through specialized courses from the Faculty of Social Administration on urban planning and infrastructure management, ensuring that development is both sustainable and serves community needs.
   
3. Cultivating a Comprehensive Innovation Ecosystem (approx. 60 initiatives)
   A core part of the university’s strategy was to nurture innovation from conception to commercialization. The Office of Advanced Science and Technology was instrumental in providing guidance on intellectual property management, facilitating industry-academia partnerships, and fostering an “Academic Entrepreneur” mindset among researchers. The Puey Ungphakorn School of Development Studies spearheaded programs on social innovation to solve community challenges, while faculties like Architecture and Design offered courses on “Innovation by Design”. These comprehensive efforts, combined with specialized R&D support services like nanoparticle analysis, underscore the university’s role in building a dynamic and competitive innovation landscape for the nation.

---

Featured Stories

High-Impact Research and Inclusive Innovation

• Flagship Medical Innovation The “Thai Kit Spacer” project (TU-CAAP and partners) is a flagship social innovation: a medical-grade plastic spacer for asthma patients. Impact: It is highly effective, user-friendly, and acts as a direct import substitute, reducing production costs by over 90%. The widespread donation and usage highlight its success in enhancing public health through domestic technology.
• Award-Winning Digital Solutions TU researchers successfully apply digital technology to real-world problems. Examples include an Al-powered skin disease analysis application and an innovative navigation device for the visually impaired, emphasizing inclusive design. Furthermore, TU deployed Al in public services, such as the contracted Al-based Chest X-ray Image Reading System, enhancing efficiency in healthcare infrastructure.
• Global Recognition and Sustainable Materials TU researchers achieved international acclaim, securing awards at events like ITEX. Research also focused on the Circular Economy with projects on sustainable materials, including biodegradable products and innovative food processing techniques (e.g., Water Chestnut Flour).

Digital Infrastructure and Resilience Building

• IoT for Infrastructure Resilience The TU faculty deployed IoT sensor systems in earthquake-prone areas(Magnitude 6.0) to monitor and enhance the resilience of infrastructure against natural disasters, demonstrating the practical application of ICT for public safety.
• Strategic Digital Planning TU entered into multi-sectoral MOUs to accelerate national innovation strategies. Critically, TU served as a consultant for the government on the Digital Development Plan for the Department of Industrial Works, advising on digital implementation, cybersecurity, and traceability systems for Industry 4.0.
• Cultivating Future Skills The university actively develops a future-ready workforce through specialized training programs like “Molecular Docking for Computer-Aided Drug Design” and projects focused on loT and Electric Vehicle (EV) technologies. This includes student successes in national innovation contests, reinforcing the talent pipeline for high-tech industries.

Previous Chapter | Back to the Report Page | Next Chapter

SDG 8 in Numbers

---

Research in SDG 8

Based on an analysis of 344 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has developed a robust and deeply relevant research program focused on SDG 8. The university’s scholarly contributions are organized into four highly interconnected thematic clusters. These clusters collectively address the complex socio-economic challenges and opportunities facing Thailand as a rapidly developing nation navigating globalization, technological disruption, and the urgent need for environmental sustainability:

1. The Evolving Labor Market and Green Economy: A primary area of research is The Evolving Labor Market and Human Capital, which critically examines the shifting landscape of work in Thailand. Studies in this cluster delve into contemporary labor dynamics, such as the rise and precarity of the gig economy, persistent wage gaps, and the redefinition of skills required for modern employability. This is intrinsically linked to a strong focus on Environmental Sustainability and the Green Economy. This complementary research cluster investigates pathways for sustainable growth, including climate change mitigation strategies, the implementation of a circular economy, and, crucially, the development of the “green skills” necessary for a workforce to thrive in emerging sectors like renewable energy and sustainable resource management.
   
2. Urbanization, Technology, and Infrastructure: The university also concentrates on Urbanization and Sustainable Development, with a significant body of research on the challenges and opportunities of Thailand’s growing cities. These studies explore the design of smart cities, the development of resilient transportation infrastructure, and the strategic implementation of regional planning initiatives like the Eastern Economic Corridor to ensure growth is both sustainable and equitable. This focus is directly informed and propelled by research into Technology, Innovation, and the Digital Economy. This cluster explores the transformative impact of adopting Industry 4.0, the integration of Artificial Intelligence in key sectors like finance, and the application of digital tools to modernize agriculture, analyzing both the potential for economic acceleration and the associated societal adjustments.

Synthesis and Impact

Across these interconnected themes, the research maintains a strong primary focus on Thailand’s national and sub-national challenges. It effectively addresses a wide and diverse range of stakeholders—from government policymakers shaping national strategy and multinational corporations navigating the local market, to the gig economy workers and vulnerable communities most affected by economic shifts. This vital work is strengthened by an extensive network of domestic and international collaborations, which ensures the research is both locally grounded and globally informed. Collectively, this comprehensive body of work positions Thammasat University as a key knowledge partner, providing the critical evidence and analysis needed to shape policy for sustainable and equitable economic growth in Thailand and the broader region

---

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 8

In recent years, with a strong focus on activities in 2024, Thammasat University has demonstrated a profound commitment to SDG 8 through an impressive portfolio of over 230 academic and social service initiatives. These extensive efforts were strategically designed to foster professional development, empower local economies, and shape national economic discourse. The initiatives can be categorized into three primary clusters:

1. Professional Development and Corporate Ups-killing (approx. 135 initiatives)
   A significant majority of the initiatives were dedicated to enhancing the skills of the national workforce and improving corporate efficiency. Spearheaded by faculties such as the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy and the Institute for Continuing Education and Human Resources, a wide array of training courses and workshops were offered to the public, private, and state enterprise sectors. These programs covered critical business functions including financial analysis, digital marketing, strategic management, project management, modern HR practices, and effective communication. By equipping professionals and organizations with up-to-date skills, these activities directly contribute to increased productivity and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
   
2. Entrepreneurship and Community-Based Economic Growth (approx. 65 initiatives)
   The university played a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening local economies, particularly through direct support for SMEs and community enterprises. The Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy led numerous projects to develop local businesses, such as cocoa processors, organic farms, sustainable tourism operators, and handicraft producers. The Office of Advanced Science and Technology also provided crucial training for aspiring entrepreneurs on topics like startup mindset, intellectual property valuation, and digital marketing. These programs provided tangible support in product development, market access, and business management, directly contributing to increased local income and sustainable livelihoods.
   
3. Labor Rights, Economic Policy, and Inclusive Workforce Development (approx. 30 initiatives)
   Addressing the “decent work” and “inclusive growth” aspects of SDG 8, Thammasat also focused on labor rights, equitable employment, and high-level economic policy dialogue. The university hosted seminars on labor law, the role of labor in a sustainable economy, and forums on Thailand’s economic structure led by the Faculty of Economics. A standout component was the extensive vocational training program for inmates, offering practical skills in electronics repair, baking, cosmetology, and other trades. This crucial initiative aims to facilitate their successful reintegration into the workforce, promoting social inclusion and reducing recidivism.

Collectively, these initiatives highlight Thammasat University’s comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to SDG 8. By combining professional upskilling, grassroots economic empowerment, and influential policy discussions, the university not only fosters economic growth but also champions the principles of decent work and social inclusion, reinforcing its role as a key driver of sustainable development in Thailand.

---

Featured Stories

Pioneering Career Pathways for a Future-Ready Workforce

In 2024, Thammasat University significantly enhanced student career development. The University established the Thammasat University Career Enhancement and Employability Centre (TUCEEC) in August as a central platform for career guidance, skills development, and employer engagement. This new centre’s mission is complemented by a major expansion of work-based learning. Throughout the year, the university forged strategic MOUs with key organizations like the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), Thai Financial Planners Association, and Thai Reinsurance. These partnerships unlock a new scale of internship and co-operative education placements, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience and strengthening their pathways into professional roles.

Empowering Staff Through Fair Governance and Professional Growth

Thammasat University ensures equitable employment practices through its democratically elected University Staff Council. This body facilitates dialogue with leadership, contributes to policy, and ensures fair treatment. (Importantly, international employees receive the same welfare and benefits as Thai staff.) This year, the Council introduced the Professional Network, a new platform specifically designed to promote knowledge exchange, skills development, and career advancement among support staff. This key initiative enhances organizational capacity and supports a culture of continuous improvement.

Commitment to a Living Wage and Fair Remuneration

Thammasat University’s employment framework, effective from 2024, prioritize fair remuneration aligned with the Living Wage principle, ensuring all staff can maintain a dignified standard of living. This policy guarantees that salary structures for all positions, including academic and professional staff, exceed statutory minimum wage levels. Furthermore, remuneration for many key positions, such as academic and professional staff, is set to surpass the estimated urban living wage in Thailand (approx. THB 14,324/month). This commitment to competitive and equitable pay supports staff well-being, strengthens talent retention, and reinforces a fair and inclusive academic community.

Previous Chapter | Back to the Report Page | Next Chapter

SDG 7 in Numbers

---

Research in SDG 7

Based on a detailed analysis of 615 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has established a vast, comprehensive, and strategically vital research program addressing SDG 7. The university’s contributions are remarkably broad, spanning the entire energy ecosystem from foundational materials science that enables new technologies to high-level national climate policy that guides the country’s future. This extensive body of work can be organized into several distinct yet interconnected key research clusters:

1. Bioenergy, Materials, and Solar Power: A primary research strength lies in Bioenergy and Waste Valorization, a field of immense importance to Thailand. This work leverages the nation’s abundant agricultural resources to convert diverse forms of biomass and waste—from rice straw to palm oil effluent—into valuable biofuels, bio-oil, and other energy products, directly aligning with and advancing circular economy principles. This applied research is supported by foundational work in Advanced Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion. This cluster focuses on the critical task of developing next-generation materials for high-performance batteries(Lithium-ion, Lithium-Sulfur), super-capacitors, and highly efficient catalysts, which are the essential building blocks for a clean energy transition. Complementing these areas, a significant body of work is dedicated to Solar Energy Systems, which explores innovative photovoltaic technologies like floating solar farms—a key solution for a country with land-use constraints—as well as advanced solar cells (e.g., perovskite) and the practical application of solar thermal technologies for industrial and residential heating.
   
2. Energy Efficiency, Electric Mobility, and Climate Policy: On the demand side, a substantial cluster of research on Energy Efficiency and Management provides actionable strategies for green buildings, crucial industrial process optimization (particularly in Thailand’s vital sugar industry), and the implementation of smart energy systems to reduce overall consumption. A specific and rapidly growing focus is on Electric Mobility, with research covering not only the technical aspects of EV technology but also the critical socio-economic factors of consumer adoption and the policy frameworks required to support Thailand’s ambitious transition away from internal combustion engines. Underpinning all these technological and market-focused areas is a robust cluster on Climate Policy and Economic Analysis. This involves sophisticated modeling of national and regional GHG mitigation pathways, providing the essential data-driven analysis required to inform Thailand’s long-term strategy for achieving its net-zero emissions goals and meeting its international climate commitments.

Synthesis and Impact

Across these diverse themes, the research is consistently characterized by a strong focus on nationally relevant challenges, particularly in the bioenergy sector, and a commitment to providing a critical, evidence-based foundation for Thailand’s energy policy. This impactful work is amplified by extensive national and international collaborations, cementing Thammasat University’s role not just as an academic institution, but as a key leader and knowledge hub driving innovation and providing indispensable guidance for the nation’s sustainable energy future.

---

Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 7

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated its strong and strategic commitment to SDG 7 by spearheading 8 key academic and social service initiatives. These multifaceted efforts spanned high-level public policy discourse, hands-on technological advancement, and crucial energy efficiency programs, showcasing a comprehensive strategy to promote a sustainable and resilient energy future for Thailand. The activities were thoughtfully organized into three distinct clusters:

1. Energy Policy and Just Transition Dialogue (approx. 3 initiatives)
   A significant portion of the university’s efforts focused on shaping national energy policy and fostering an informed public understanding of the energy transition. The Faculty of Economics hosted a crucial public seminar on Thailand’s Power Development Plan (PDP 2024), creating an essential platform for academics, policymakers, and citizens to debate the country’s future energy mix and its long-term economic and environmental implications. Concurrently, the Faculty of Law organized high-level academic seminars to proactively address the legal and technological frameworks required for new energy sources. These included a forward-looking discussion on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and another critical seminar on moving “Beyond Coal,” which emphasized the necessity of a socially just and equitable transition that supports affected communities while advancing national renewable energy goals.
   
2. Clean Technology and Skill Development (approx. 2 initiatives)
   The university actively promoted the adoption and understanding of clean energy technologies through practical, hands-on training and education. The Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT) conducted an engaging workshop on electric vehicle (EV) technology, targeting both students and the public to build technical capacity and accelerate the shift towards sustainable transportation in line with national objectives. Similarly, the Faculty of Science and Technology provided practical training on the application of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. This initiative empowered local communities and stakeholders with the knowledge to design, install, and maintain decentralized renewable energy solutions, thereby fostering energy independence and resilience at the grassroots level.
   
3. Energy Efficiency and Management (approx. 3 initiatives)
   Enhancing energy efficiency was a core focus, with impactful initiatives aimed at the industrial and building sectors, which are major energy consumers. The Faculty of Engineering undertook pivotal consultancy projects for the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency. These included developing robust energy assessment criteria for factories and creating a sophisticated system to monitor energy conservation in buildings based on national.

---

Featured Stories

Advancing Energy Efficiency in the Built Environment

Thammasat University continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainable building design through the achievement of two major energy-efficiency recognitions:

• Siri Witthayalak Building – ASEAN Energy Awards 2024
  The Siri Witthayalak Building, home to the Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education, received First Runner-up in the Energy Efficient Building category at the ASEAN Energy Awards 2024 (Tropical Building sub-category). The building’s architectural design incorporates passive cooling strategies, including an open rectangular layout to facilitate natural cross-ventilation and the use of skylights to maximize daylight. These features reduce dependence on mechanical air conditioning and artificial lighting, resulting in significantly lower energy consumption. The recognition highlights the building as a practical model for energy-efficient construction in hot and humid tropical contexts.

• Thammasat Medical Centre – Platinum Level Green Building (New Construction)
  In 2024, the newly constructed Thammasat Medical Centre was awarded Platinum level for energy efficiency in new construction, making it the first hospital in Thailand to achieve the highest standard of green building certification. Designed as an Energy Conservation Building, it achieved a high score in the Energy & Atmosphere category (19 points), reflecting strong performance in resource efficiency, building envelope design, and system optimization. The building reduces overall energy use while supporting high indoor environmental quality for patients and staff, illustrating how healthcare facilities can integrate sustainability with patient-centerd design.

Building Strategic Partnerships for Clean Energy Research and Innovation

Previous Chapter | Back to the Report Page | Next Chapter