Thammasat University’s written policy for external stakeholder engagement

Highlights

  • In 2021, Thammasat University enacted Stakeholder Engagement Measure, which specifies guidelines for engagement measures for internal and external stakeholders.
  • The university must provide opportunities for customers of the university, employers of Thammasat University’s graduates, and other stakeholders to give opinions and suggestions to improve the university’s operation systematically and independently. 

In 2021, Thammasat University enacted Stakeholder Engagement Measure, which specifies guidelines for engagement measures for internal and external stakeholders. 

Section 3 provides guidelines for stakeholder engagement. 

  • Item 2 states that the university must provide opportunities for customers of the university, employers of Thammasat University’s graduates, and other stakeholders to give opinions and suggestions to improve the university’s operation systematically and independently. 
  • Item 3 encourages collaborations between the university and stakeholders to improve the university’s operations, education, and other academic collaborations. 
  • Item 4 states that when faculties and institutes need to improve their curriculums, they need to engage all stakeholders, including Thammasat University’s graduates and external stakeholders, to provide comments. 

The guidelines have been implemented by all faculties and institutes, especially when the curriculum needs to be updated and improved. In addition, Rangsit and Lampang campuses also worked actively with local authorities in several local development initiatives. 

Measures for Stakeholder Participation B.E. 2564 (2021)

O33-1-มาตรการให้ผู้มีส่วนได้เสียมีส่วนร่วม

Thammasat Student’s Union

Highlights

  • Thammasat University recognizes the independent student union as an organization responsible for overseeing student affairs
  • The Thammasat University Student Union (TUSU) and the Thammasat University Student Council (TUSC) are committees of elected student representatives that play significant roles in student governance and advocacy

Thammasat University recognizes the independent student union as an organization responsible for overseeing student affairs. It respects the rights of students to express themselves in society and considers various demands to collaboratively shape the future of the university.  

Thammasat University Student Union (TUSU)

Thammasat University Student Union (TUSU), establish in 1952, is a committee of elected student representatives who governs all student bodies and allocates budgets for clubs and independent groups for organizing extracurricular activities. The Student Union also works with faculty-level student committees to discuss and find solutions to student-related affairs before voicing their conclusion to the university executives. TUSU is also known to be socially and politically engaging and be a leader in mobilizing university students and on some occasions the public in democratic demonstrations. 

Thammasat University Student Council (TUSC) 

Thammasat University Student Council (TUSC) was established in 1970 as the elected representative body of the student community. It serves as a legislative entity responsible for drafting and approving rules related to student activities. In this capacity, TUSC represents students in interactions with university executives and oversees the Student Union, ensuring checks and balances by monitoring its decisions, policies, and activities. Since 2020, each campus of Thammasat University has had its own elected student council to manage campus-specific affairs, while these councils collaborate on university-wide matters to enhance student representation and effectively address issues across all campuses.

In 2023, TUSC launched the TUSU Red Alert! initiative, designed to facilitate communication between students and university offices. This initiative enables students to report campus issues and provides updates on the progress of those reports.

Both Student Union (TUSU) and Student Council (TUSC) are vital organizations recognized by Thammasat University for their significant roles in student governance and society. They advocate for student rights and needs, historically engaging in political movements that have influenced social change and democracy in Thailand. Both organizations organize community service initiatives and cultural events that enhance campus life and foster community among students. They also promote civic education, raising awareness of rights and encouraging participation  in democratic processes.   

The Regulations of Thammasat University on Student Activities B.E. 2563 (2020)

ข้อบังคับมหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์ว่าด้วยกิจกรรมนักศึกษา-มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์-พ.ศ.-2563-

    Thammasat University Student Union (TUSU)’s official Facebook , Instagram

    Thammasat University Student Council (TUSC)’s official Facebook: 

    Thammasat University as a Neutral Platform for Discussion Among Different Political Stakeholders

    Highlights

    • Thammasat University’s Student Council organized the “Debate on Election Vision 2023,” bringing together political party representatives and activists to discuss crucial societal issues, reinforcing the university’s commitment to democratic engagement and informed citizenry.
    • Derek Jayanama Research Center at Thammasat University hosted a pivotal discussion titled “Politics and Institutional Change in the Senate of Thailand,” showcasing the university’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for diverse political perspectives

    Thammasat University continued to serve as a neutral platform and safe space for discussions on political issues among various stakeholders.

    Debate on Election Vision 2023: Unpacking Policies, Hopes, or Deceptions

    In March 2023, the Student Council organized the event “Debate on Election Vision 2023: Unpacking Policies, Hopes, or Deceptions” at Puey Ungphakorn Centenary Hall, Rangsit Campus. This event featured representatives from various political parties, including Pheu Thai, Move Forward, Chart Thai Pattana, and Free Thai, as well as political activists, who came together to debate pressing issues that resonate deeply within society. 

    Key topics included political reform, solutions to the PM 2.5 crisis, sensitive laws such as Section 112, and economic policies ahead of the June 2023 election. The discussions highlighted the complexities of these issues and the diverse perspectives that exist within Thai society. Students and attendees were encouraged to pose questions directly to the representatives, fostering an interactive environment. Many took advantage of this opportunity, actively engaging in discussions and exchanging opinions, which enriched the dialogue and helped bridge the gap between political leaders and the community.

    By facilitating such events, Thammasat University reinforces its commitment to nurturing informed citizenry and promoting democratic engagement, making it a vital hub for political discourse in Thailand.

    Politics and Institutional Change in the Senate of Thailand.

    On August 7, 2023, the Derek Jayanama Research Center at Thammasat University hosted a pivotal discussion titled Politics and Institutional Change in the Senate of Thailand This event exemplified the university’s dedication to fostering a neutral environment for diverse political perspectives.

    Assistant Professor Purawit Watasuk from the Faculty of Political Science presented key findings from his doctoral research at the University of Canterbury. His thesis examined the evolution of the Senate and raised critical questions about its relevance in the complex landscape of Thai politics. He was joined by Professor Siriphan Noksuan from Chulalongkorn University and Dr. Satithorn Thananitichot from King Prajadhipok’s Institute, both of whom explored the Senate’s intricate role within Thailand’s democracy.

    Purawit highlighted how the Senate has frequently served as a guardian of the status quo, navigating the shifting power dynamics throughout the country’s 20 constitutions and 13 coups since 1932. This sparked a critical conversation about the potential for the Senate to evolve into a more representative institution. The discussion was charged yet respectful, showcasing the university’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for diverse political perspectives

    Thammasat University’s Participation in government policy-focused research in 2023

    Highlights

    • In 2023, over two hundred research and consultation projects were conducted by professors and researchers at Thammasat University, with most being government projects.
    • Examples of Thammasat University’s Participation in government policy-focused research in 2023 include areas such as data governance policies, water pricing structures for public water resource users, and safe and creative media.

    In 2023, over two hundred research and consultation projects were conducted by professors and researchers at Thammasat University, with most being government projects, as reported by the Thammasat University Research and Consultancy Institute (TURAC). The sector with the highest participation was research and evaluation, accounting for 125 projects, followed by management and institutional development with 68 projects, and the information and telecommunications sector with 28 projects.

    The following are examples of the specific projects in 2023 authorized for public disclosure:

    1. Analysis and Development of a Framework for Governance Policies on Government Data to Lead to the Development of Open Government Data Sets for the Public Relations Department for the Fiscal Year 2023.

    Sponsor & license owner: Public Relations Department

    Abstract: https://tu-rac.com/uploads/files/62/files297386_10789A_1695195663.pdf

    Assistant Professor Supakit Prueksaarun, Ph.D., from the Thammasat School of Engineering, was appointed as an advisor for the analysis and formulation of guidelines for data governance policies in the public sector, aimed at advancing the open data framework of the Public Relations Department for the fiscal year 2023. This advisory role includes assessing the gaps between the current status and the requirements for data governance, as well as conducting a gap analysis regarding the security of information systems related to data management. These assessments will provide a foundation for recommendations and the establishment of a framework for effective data governance and management. 

    2. Study of Approaches to Policy Development for the Determination of Water Use Fee Structures for Public Water Resource Users of Categories Two and Three According to the Water Resources Act B.E. 2561, Chapter 4.

    Sponsor & license owner: Department of Water Resources

    Abstract: https://tu-rac.com/uploads/files/62/files306492_10490A_1702432300.pdf

    Assistant Professor Niramon Sutthamakit, Ph.D., from the Faculty of Economics, was appointed as an advisor for the cost analysis involved in studying the guidelines for formulating a policy on water pricing structures for public water resource users in categories two and three, in accordance with the Water Resources Act B.E. 2561 (2018), Chapter 4.

    The main objectives of this project are to identify the factors that influence public water charge rates and to establish a transparent and equitable pricing structure for second and third category water users under the Water Resource Act 2018. This structure aims to promote efficient water usage. Additionally, the project will provide recommendations for revenue management.

    3. Study of Approaches to Promote the Production, Co-production, Marketing, and Distribution Channels of Safe and Creative Media Abroad

    Sponsor & license owner: Thai Media Fund

    Abstract: https://tu-rac.com/uploads/files/62/files290942_10341A_1689907490.pdf

    Assistant Professor Chayakrit Asavathitanont, Ph.D., from the College of Innovation at Thammasat University, was appointed as a consultant for an investigation into the theoretical concepts and the global history and evolution of safe and creative media. The selection of target countries was guided by specific criteria. The research also examined the safe and creative media industry in terms of supply chain management, marketing, and distribution channels abroad, as well as the current state of investments in the Media & Entertainment industry. Additionally, it included a trend analysis of safe and creative media markets in foreign countries.

    In-depth interviews were conducted with representatives from 32 companies in the safe and creative media industries across selected countries to identify a target group of at least ten. This research aimed to provide policy recommendations that will help advance the organization’s mission of generating income.

    See more about TURAC in Annual Report 2023

    Thammasat University’s Education and Capacity building activities to Local government Administrators and rural communities in 2023

    Highlights

    • Thammasat Law Center is addressing legal ignorance in rural areas through training programs and Mobile Legal Clinics, empowering community leaders and citizens with essential legal knowledge to combat exploitation and improve access to justice.
    • Thammasat University’s Training and Development Center is enhancing local administrative organizations through comprehensive training programs that include lectures and hands-on workshops, with costs fully reimbursable under Ministry of Interior regulations.

    Thammasat University is committed to empowering policymakers and local leaders through outreach and education by organizing a series of collaborative training programs covering various topics, including social welfare, community tourism development, budget preparation and management, and administrative regulations for local government organizations, along with Mobile Legal Clinics. The program ensures that local officials are better equipped to serve their communities and navigate the complexities of governance in an ever-changing environment.

    Mobile Legal Clinics

    Many people in rural areas are still unaware of their legal rights and obligations, leading to disputes that result in civil and criminal cases. Additionally, ignorance of the law has made rural citizens vulnerable to exploitation and fraud by dishonest individuals. In some areas, issues such as the trafficking of women for prostitution, child exploitation, and forced labor have arisen—problems the government is striving to eradicate.

    To prevent these issues, Thammasat Law Center has organized training programs to disseminate legal knowledge and provide Mobile Legal Clinics to rural communities. This initiative aims to outreach, educate, and build capacity among community leaders, such as village heads, committee members, and local council members, as well as interested citizens, on their rights and responsibilities under the law. By focusing on general education and upskilling, Thammasat University is empowering local government administrators with essential legal insights that can enhance their effectiveness in serving their communities Lectures covered topics such as laws protecting accident victims, family inheritance laws, debt-related legal issues, criminal record expungement, bail laws, and land and forestry laws. Additionally, consultations and advice were provided for those facing legal issues, helping rural citizens access legal resources more effectively.

    Empowering Local Administration through Collaborative Training

    In addition, The Training and Development Center of the Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University collaborates with the Foundation for Thai Society and the Local Capacity Development Institute to organize a training program focusing on enhancing the excellence of local administrative organizations. The training includes lectures, hands-on learning workshops, and field visits to real areas to strengthen the capabilities of executives and personnel in local administrative organizations.

    Throughout 2023, training sessions covered a range of topics, including social welfare, community tourism development, budget preparation and management, and administrative regulations for local government organizations, as detailed below:

    Remark: The training costs can be fully reimbursed according to the regulations of the Ministry of Interior, specifically under the expenses for training of local administrative organizations as per the 2014 regulation, Section 2, Subsection 2, Item 28 (1).

    Relavent information

    Thammasat University has Elected Representation from Multiple Stakeholders on the University’s Highest Governing Body

    Highlights

    • Thammasat University is committed to participatory governance by including representatives from multiple stakeholders in its highest governing body.
    • Students, staff, and Alumni directly participate in selecting the Rector by nominating candidates and engaging in several steps

    Thammasat University Council

    Thammasat University’s highest governing body is the Thammasat University Council, which consists of eight key positions as specified in The composition of the University Council:

    • Chair of the University Council: Appointed by royal decree.
    • University Rector: Nominated by faculty, staff, and students, followed by a selection process.
    • One member from the Vice Rectors.
    • Two members from the Deans or heads of equivalent units.
    • One member from the Directors of Institutes or Offices.
    • Two full-time faculty members with at least 5-years experience.
    • One member from the academic support staff with at least 10-years experience
    • 15 external experts appointed by royal decree, based on recommendations from the council’s internal members.

    Students, Faculty, and Staff Engagement in the selection of the Rector

    Among the representatives, Thammasat University prioritized student involvement in the rector election process. This reflecting the university’s strong commitment to participatory governance, where the voices of students, staff, and faculty are heard and valued. The rector serves a term of three years.

    Thammasat University Rector Selection Process is overseen by the Selection Committee for the Rector and unfolds through several engaging steps as specified in The Regulations of Thammasat University on the Selection of the Rector, B.E. 2560 (2017), specifically in item 11:

    (a) Procedures for Application and Nomination

    1. An announcement shall be made to invite applications for the position.
    2. The Selection Committee for the Rector shall arrange for university staffs and students to propose candidates deemed suitable for the position of rector

    (b) Procedures for Selection and Consideration Process

    1. The Selection Committee for the Rector shall select and filter candidates according to the methods established by the committee.
    2. The Selection Committee shall consider approaching no more than five individuals who have been nominated, as well as evaluate candidates who have applied for the position.
    3. Those who accept the invitation or candidates who have been selected according to (2) must prepare a proposed operational framework for the university and submit it to the Selection Committee for consideration. This framework must be made available to university staffs, students, and alumni. The proposed framework should align with the goals, policies, and development strategies of the university council.
    4. Candidates who have accepted the invitation and been selected according to (2) shall present their management strategies to the Selection Committee, allowing university staffs, students, and alumni to attend the presentation. The Selection Committee may also interview candidates who have been selected according to (2)
    5. The Selection Committee shall consider and nominate no more than two individuals with suitable qualifications and characteristics for the position of rector to the university council for consideration. However, if the committee reaches a unanimous decision, they may nominate only one individual.
    6. The Selection Committee must prepare a report detailing the procedures and outcomes of the selection process, along with comments gathered from university staffs, students, or alumni, to be submitted to the university council for their consideration.

    See more information about Thammasat University’s student participation in the Rector Election 2024

    Thammasat University’s Principles on Corruption and Bribery 

    Highlights

    • Thammasat university has assigned the Sanya Dharmasak Institute for Democracy, under the Thammasat University Anti-Corruption Center, as the primary mechanism to drive the strategy toward becoming an organization of integrity and transparency
    • Internal units of Thammasat University implementing the Anti-Corruption Action Plan for 2023 – 2027 are required to report their progress biannually (every six months)

    Thammasat University aims to become an organization characterized by integrity and transparency. To achieve this goal, the university has assigned the Sanya Dharmasak Institute for Democracy, under the Thammasat University Anti-Corruption Center, as the primary mechanism to drive the strategy toward becoming an organization of integrity and transparency. The strategy includes promoting good governance through risk management related to corruption and misconduct, developing management systems, and fostering a culture of integrity aligned with the Integrity and Transparency Assessment (ITA) criteria for government agencies.

    Anti-Corruption Action Plan for Thammasat University 2023 – 2027 

    The updated Anti-Corruption Action Plan for Thammasat University 2023 – 2027 outlines strategic objectives as follows:

    • Strategy 1: Promote and develop transparent and ethical administration at Thammasat University.
    • Strategy 2: Enhance the effectiveness of work systems and the organizational culture aimed at preventing corruption and ensuring transparency within the university.
    • Strategy 3: Improve control systems for measuring educational outcomes and creating academic, research, and innovation results from faculty and students with integrity and transparency.
    • Strategy 4: Foster collaboration to enhance the university’s performance in the Integrity and Transparency Assessment (ITA).
    • Strategy 5: Promote the management of issues related to corruption and misconduct

    Internal units of Thammasat University implementing the Anti-Corruption Action Plan for 2023 – 2027 are required to report their progress biannually (every six months) to the Sanya Dharmasak Institute for Democracy and the Anti-Corruption Center. This data will be compiled to provide an overall report on the plan’s implementation to the university’s integrity and transparency committee and relevant agencies.

    O36-แผนปฏิบัติการด้านป้องกันการทุจริต-ปี-พ.ศ.-2566

    Thammasat University Anti-Corruption Action Plan

    Thammasat University Anti-Corruption Monitoring Report

    Thammasat’s Expert Advice to Government at All Level in 2023

    Highlights

    • In 2023, more Thammasat professors were appointed to various positions or joined as committee members in several government entities at all levels—local, regional, and national—across a diverse array of fields

    In 2023, more Thammasat professors were appointed to various positions or joined as committee members in several government entities at all levels—local, regional, and national—across a diverse array of fields. At the national level, faculty members contribute to critical areas such as Labor Economics, Social Development, Pension Systems, Law and Constitutional Matters, Anti-Corruption, Inequality, Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Forestry, Agriculture and Cooperatives, National Space Policy, Food and Drug Administration, and Medical Services.At the regional and local levels, Thammasat’s experts engage in vital initiatives focused on peacebuilding and conflict resolution in the Southern Border Provinces, as well as Child Protection and Human Resource Management.

    Local Level

    AreaNamePositionDateEvident Link
    Child ProtectionAsst.Prof. Areerat Adisaidetchrin, (Faculty of Social Administration)A member of the Child Protection Committee for Lampang Province under the Department of Juvenile Observation and Protection.Sep 28, 2023Click
    Human resource managementAsst.Prof. Sunisa Chokhaew
    (Faculty of Political Science)
    A special committee member on recruitment, personnel development, and evaluation, A special committee member on human resource management strategies for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

    Regional Level

    AreaNamePositionDateEvident Link
    PeacebuildingAssociate Professor Chaninthira na Thalang
    (Faculty of Political Science)
    An Advisor to the subcommittee responsible for studying and enhancing the effectiveness of peace negotiations and political solutions in the Southern Border Provinces Nov 11, 2023 Click
    PeacebuildingDr. Chayanit Poonyarat
    (Faculty of Political Science)
    A Subcommittee focused on studying and promoting public participation in peacebuilding efforts in the Southern Border ProvincesNov 11, 2023Click

    National Level

    AreaNamePositionDateEvident Link
    Labor Economics Asst. Prof. Dr. Thirapat Phakthong
    (Thammasat Business School)
    Member of the working group to study, analyze, research, and propose policy recommendations on international labor economics,  Ministry of LaborJan 3, 2023Click
    Employment Development and Job ProtectionAsst. Prof. Dr. Kiat-anant LuangkeawCommittee member in the Committee for the Development of Employment and Protection of Job Seekers.Mar 22,2023 Click
    Wage EconomicsAssoc. Prof. Dr. Supachai SrisuchatExpert in economics, serving as an advisor to the Wage Committee, Series 22.Jul 12, 2023Click
    Agriculture and CooperativesAsst.Prof. Pracha KoonnathamadeeMember of the working group for the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives.Oct 24, 2023Click
    Pension SystemsAsst. Prof. Duangmanee Laovakul 
    (Faculty of Economics)
    Advisor to the Subcommittee on Monitoring the Implementation of the Basic Pension System for Citizens.Dec 14, 2023Click
    Pension SystemsAsst. Prof. Tipakorn Jirathitikulchai
    (Faculty of Economics) 
    Subcommittee on Monitoring the Implementation of the Basic Pension System for Citizens.Oct 19, 2023Click
    Broadcasting and telecommunication Asst. Prof. Supachai Srisuchat
    (Faculty of Economics)
    A member of the subcommittee for reviewing and improving the internal administrative regulations of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).Aug 11, 2023
    Law and Constitutional MattersAssociate Professor Nirumai Pitsakham Manjitr
    (Faculty of Law)
    An advisor for the project “Drafting the Reference Constitution” at the Constitutional Court OfficeAug 1, 2023
    Anti-corruptionProf. Pongtep Santikul
    (Faculty of Social Administration)
    A member of the subcommittee supporting the evaluation of the outcomes of the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Action Plan Phase 2 (2023-2027) at the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).Nov 1, 2023
    Food and DrugAsst. Prof. Paradi Saengwattanakul (Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University)A member of the subcommittee for reviewing the criteria and approval of traditional Thai medicine and alternative medicine knowledge, 13th meeting of 2023, at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office.Sep 15, 2023
    Medical serviceAsst. Prof. Paradi Saengwattanakul (Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University)A member of the Chinese Medicine Professional Committee, 4th meeting of 2023, at the Department of Medical Services and Medical Profession.Oct 6, 2023
    Poverty and 
    Inequality 
    Asst. Prof. Wasit Limpraesert 
    College of Interdisciplinary Studies)
    A consultant for the subcommittee addressing poverty alleviation and reducing inequality within the Senate’s Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Inequality Reduction.Nov 15, 2023
    Law and Constitutional MattersProf. Dr. Udom Rathamarit
    (Faculty of Law)
    Justice of the Constitutional Court Dec 26, 2022 Click
    National Space PolicyAsst. Prof. Dr.Lalin Kovudhikulrungsri
    (Faculty of Law)
    Expert in the National Space PolicyFeb 9, 2022 Click
    Gender EqualityProf. Narong Jaiharn 
    (Faculty of Law)
    President of the Committee for Gender Discrimination Verification in accordance with the Gender Equality Act 2015Jan 19, 2022Click
    Area-based AdministrationAsst. Prof. Dr. Supachai Srisuchart 
    (Faculty of Economy)
    Member of the Sub-committee on Integrated Area-based Administration Policy focusing on academic, law, and integration of projectsDec 29, 2022Click
    National Forestry Asst. Prof. Dr. Pracha Koonnathamdee 
    (Faculty of Economy)
    An expert and committee in the National Forestry CommitteeJun 9, 2022Click
    National Economic and Social DevelopmentAssoc. Prof. Niramon Suthammakij
    (Faculty of Economy)
    A board member of the Institute for Public Policy Development under the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC)Jan 7, 2022Click
    National Economic and Social DevelopmentAsst. Prof. Nattapong Puttanapong
    (Faculty of Economy)
    A board member of the Institute for Public Policy Development under the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC)Jan 7, 2022Click
    LaborAssoc. Prof. Kiriya Kulkolkarn 
    (Faculty of Economy)
    A member, as a government representative, of the 20th National Labour Development Advisory Council.Dec 26, 2022Click
    Impact EvaluationAsst. Prof. Anin Aroonruengsawat 
    (Faculty of Economy)
    An expert of a working group for outcome and impact evaluation of platforms/programs/projects to which the budget from the Science Research and Innovation fund was allocated.Jul 19, 2022Click

    Disabled Student Services Thammasat University (DSSTU)

    Thammasat University is recognized as the first higher education institution to launch the “Students with Disabilities Project,” aiming to broaden educational opportunities and ensure equal access to education for people with disabilities. Currently, Thammasat University has a total of 70 students with disabilities and 14 personnel with disabilities as technical officer, analysts, practitioner and educator.

    The establishment of the Disability Support Services (DSS) Center has made Thammasat an accessible, equitable, and inclusive learning and living environment for all students with disabilities.

    Disabled Student Services Thammasat University (DSSTU)_OIA Learning Support
    Disability Support Services Thammasat University (Facebook)

    The key supports and services from the DSS include the areas of:

    1) Guidance counseling, admission program and student’s preparation
    2) Dormitory and assistive devices
    3) Instructional materials

    4) Scholarships, grants, internships and job searching/employment
    5) Examination and monitoring academic performance
    6) Service center common room
    7) Tutoring, buddies, mental counseling and volunteer to support on daily life

    8) Facilities and building renovations (ramps, parking space and walkway) with “universal design” concepts
    9) Other supports and services

    1. Host a guidance counseling session at high schools for students with disabilities to makes sure that students understand the curriculum, career paths, and the support they will receive from the university.
    2. Host a meeting for the admission program, discussing the details for the guidelines of the examination as well as taking care of the students and other matters on the day of the examination. The center also responsible for the test questions, asking the teacher to write an easier version of the test paper, because the admission program is aiming to accept every student with disabilities who has the potential to learn in the system.
    3. For the student’s preparation, the service center also hosts a meeting between the lecturers and the students to go over the guidelines and details of the course such as how the classes in the university are different from those in high schools.

    Besides helping the students with the study, DSS also takes care of general preparation such as explaining the university map, training the students to use assistive devices.

    The admission program also provides scholarships to students in need. Each year the service center gives around 25 scholarships with 55,000 baht ( approx. US$ 1,600) per year which could cover the cost of room and board, depending on the type of scholarship and the terms & conditions.

    For dormitory applications at the Rangsit Campus, students can apply online and fill out your details through online registration. Disabled students can fill out the dormitory reservation form with the necessary information so that the appropriate dormitories could be allocated for them. Students can specify their gender (Gender) according to their preference, and this will not affect the selection process. However, the office will assign dormitories based on the student’s biological gender.

    Every student with disabilities in Thammasat has the rights to every assistive device they need. Everyone will receive a laptop computer and a voice recorder. Each student also receives the devices according to their needs. For a blind student, they will receive the white cane. For students with visual impairments, they receive an image enlarging devices. For students with mobility impairment, they can borrow both normal and electric wheelchairs to use for the whole time they study in the university and then return when they graduated. For the students with hearing disability, there are hearing and speaking aids and they also can request a class coordinator from the service center to help communicate with the faculty staff and the teachers. The center also takes care of the maintenance cost of all the devices.

    The students with disabilities that have the disability identification card will receive up to 60,000 baht from the government and up to 70,000 baht if the student study in science-related fields. The money will be used directly only for study fees that the students registered in each year.

    The admission program also provides scholarships to students in need. Each year the service center gives around 25 scholarships with 55,000 baht ( approx. US$ 1,600) per year. The students don’t have to pay back to the university, they only have to check in with the service center at least once a week in the first few months and then once a month for the rest of the study years. These check-in session aims to keep track of the students’ study and any other problems being in the university.
    ทุนการศึกษาโครงการนักศึกษาพิการ ปีการศึกษา 2566

    DSS also seeks for external funding and scholarships from both private and government agencies to support the students with disabilities as done in this academic year, from “Engineering Charity Golf 2022”.
    ทุนการศึกษาเพื่อสนับสนุนช่วยเหลือนักศึกษาพิการจากกลุ่ม “กอล์ฟการกุศลวิศวกรรม 2022” แบบฟอร์มการขอรับทุนกอล์ฟการกุศลวิศวกรรม 2022” ประจำปีการศึกษา 2565

    Thammasat University is regarded as the first higher education institution to establish “Students with Disabilities Project” to expand educational opportunities for people with disabilities to receive equal education. Thammasat produces graduates who are equipped with knowledge and skills to enter the labor market.  Each year, more than 85% of graduates with disabilities are employed.
    ผลิตบัณฑิตพิการหลากหลายสาขาสู่ตลาดแรงงาน (2022)
    Expanding opportunities for education and employment (May,2022)

    Regarding examinations, the service center is responsible for making examination materials ready and suitable with the students’ disabilities, for example, making braille or enlarged text and the digital version of the test paper for students with visual impairments. The students can also make a request to take their test at the center and a request to increase the test time. The extra time is optional. Should the students need the extra time they have to arrive at the service center before an actual testing time and leave the test room at the same time as other students to prevent any foul play.

    The service center tracks and monitors students with disabilities’ academic performance and arranges tutoring and/or counseling sessions if needed.

    The service center also provides other miscellaneous services like the office area for the staff and the common room for the students. There are 4 recording rooms, 28 computers set with the screen reader program, and the image enlarging devices for the staff to produce the instructional media. The service center opens Monday through Saturday exclusively for students with disabilities. Students can use the common room for both academic purposes and for relaxing in their leisure time.

    Museums are one of the most important spaces for learning. However, if we consider the environment, physical structure, exhibition design, item placement, and information presentation in most museums in Thailand, it becomes evident that there are still limitations in accessibility for certain groups, particularly for people with visual impairments.

    Considering the diversity of perception and physical differences among people, so that everyone can access information freely and equally, is something that has gained attention in many museums worldwide. One of the key “universal design” projects is the external and internal building structure of museums to facilitate blind visitors such as elevator and braille block. For exhibition design, sound and touch were used as means to present and describe objects in the exhibition. The audio description is the basic source of data that museums provided to blind visitors through individual guide or audio guide. The sound and touch in the exhibition allow blind people to increasingly gain information and participate in the museums.

    Thammasat University Museum – Design for Disabilities 
    Museum and Exhibition for Visually Impaired Persons

    Other facilities and building renovations are such as the new elevators in the Faculty of Social Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, and Faculty of Science & Technology, adding braille numbering buttons and voice announcements. The current project is to renovate additional seven rooms on the first floor at the female dormitory to include the bathroom with holding rails, furniture, study table, kitchen sink and closet that supports daily living, and lastly the ramps in all dormintory areas.

    9) Other supports and services

    Innovative engineer:
    In addition to the DSS efforts, Faculty of Engineering also innovates “Plug & Go Wheelchair”, an innovation for people with disabilities and senior citizens. This innovation won 2 awards from the competition on innovation for disabled and senior people. In year 2022, another team of students from the Faculty of Engineering worked on an electric wheelchair for paraplegics, a new design power wheelchair for easy transfer, and received a gold award for innovative design for the disabled and the elderly.
    Electric Wheelchair for Leg-impaired People (Sep,2022)
    Design and development of physical therapy upper limb device with symmetrical reflections mechanism (2022)
    Plug & Go Wheelchair for Disabilities

    Health innovation:
    The issue of permanent disability caused by stroke is a significant problem with both economic and social impacts. However, this problem can be alleviated if patients can access innovative rehabilitation and assistance, particularly at the community level. One such innovation is the ‘Arm Booster,’ a device designed to assist in arm rehabilitation for patients. The device is user-friendly and easy to maintain, making it suitable for community use. It facilitates bilateral training, where both arms are used in physical therapy.

    Furthermore, the Arm Booster has undergone clinical trials, with results showing significant improvements in patients’ recovery. It has also been proven to effectively reduce the workload of physical therapists. Currently, the Arm Booster is in the process of medical device standard testing and is being distributed for trial use in community healthcare facilities.”

    DSS provides support and services for students with mobility disabilities, hearing impaired, visual impaired, and many more.  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. Thammasat Host the “Well-being Promotion for Persons with Disabilities through Innovation and Sustainable Development (Jul,2023)
    2. การส่งเสริมการจัดการศึกษาสำหรับนักศึกษาพิการในระดับอุดมศึกษา (Jun,2023)
    3. รางวัลเหรียญเงิน ด้านการสาธารณสุข สุขภาพ และเทคโนโลยีทางการแพทย์ ชื่อผลงาน แฮทเตอร์ไกด์: อุปกรณ์นำทางอัจฉริยะ สำหรับผู้พิการทางการมองเห็น จากการประกวดผลงานนวัตกรรมสายอุดมศึกษา ประจำปี 2566 ในงาน “มหกรรมงานวิจัยแห่งชาติ 2566 (Thailand Research Expo 2023)

    Neutral and Safe Space for Political and Social Expression

    Thammsat University has been recognized as an open space for political and social movement since the founding of university. Students, Academias, Staffs have freedom to express different ideas or opinions toward political and social issues, There are many public seminars or open discussions organized by students or professors regularly. 

    More importantly as the political tension in Thailand has been developing, Thammasat University Council, the highest governing body of the university, officially announced that the university accepts and protects the right to freedom of expression and adhere to the peaceful approach. The announcement was made after Thammasat student protest explicitly called for the reform of the royal institution on August 10, 2020.

    Any public discussion, not to mention criticism, related to the monarchy has been a taboo in Thai society since the 1976 student massacre. Therefore the announcement of the university council showed the commitment of Thammasat University for being a neutral and safe space for expression.

    Please see related documents and websites below:

    https://www.thebangkokinsight.com/413687/

    Examples of such seminars are the followings: