The event served as an important platform for Walailak University and the Tha Sala community to exchange perspectives, strengthen mutual understanding, and explore opportunities for cooperation in education, the economy, society, and quality-of-life development.
Dr. Mongkol Teerananon, Vice President of Walailak University, opened the programme by introducing the President and presenting an overview entitled “Walailak University and Its Mission to Strengthen Community Relations.”
This was followed by a special address by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, entitled “Walailak University: An Era of Transformation towards a World-Class University.”
During his presentation, the President highlighted the University’s development in education, research, and academic services for society. According to information presented at the event, Walailak University was placed in the 1201+ band globally and ranked 6th in Thailand in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.
He also reported that the University received 56,900 applications for the 2026 academic year, together with an overall average GPA of 3.46, figures presented as indicators of the growing interest among prospective students and the University’s continuing development.
In the area of academic services and social engagement, the President highlighted the University’s efforts to align its activities with sustainable development goals. According to the presentation, Walailak University was ranked 47th globally and 3rd in Thailand in the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026.
The University has also implemented more than 95 academic service projects for society and supported the development of seven model communities for sustainability, demonstrating its commitment to applying academic knowledge and research to real-world community needs.
Walailak University has also placed strong emphasis on developing its campus landscape and facilities as public learning and tourism destinations. This approach is intended to strengthen connections between the University, local communities, and the economy of Tha Sala District by opening University spaces for wider public benefit.
Mr. Prasong Chanhyu, Tha Sala District Chief, spoke about the University’s role in local development, noting its contribution to economic activity through students, staff, visitors, and users of the Walailak University Medical Center.
He also highlighted the University’s role in transferring knowledge and research to support local communities, including projects to increase the value of fishery products from the Golden Bay area, as well as support for important local economic crops such as durian, coconut, and mangosteen. Research and academic services have also contributed to exploring ways to reduce production costs for local farmers.
Seven Model Communities Recognised for Sustainable Local Development
A key part of the event was the presentation of the “Model Community for Sustainable Local Development” awards under Walailak University’s vision of “A Pillar of the Community.”
The awards recognised successful collaboration between the University and local communities in advancing sustainable development. The seven recognised communities and organisations were:
- Ban Tai Blue Swimming Crab Bank Community, Ko Samui District
- Ban Hat Somboon Blue Swimming Crab Bank Community, Tha Chana District
- Ban Nai Thung Blue Swimming Crab Bank Community, Tha Sala District
- Ban Khao Wang Community, Ron Phibun District
- Cha-uat Phoonphon Mangosteen Community Enterprise, Cha-uat District
- Wat Khok Lek Child Development Center
- Chumchon Mai School, Tha Sala District
The programme concluded with a panel discussion entitled “University for Society: Working Together for Sustainable Local Development.”
Panelists included Associate Professor Dr. Surin Maisrikrod, Vice President for Educational Development and Corporate Communication; Mr. Theerapong Chuaychu, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province; Mr. Sitthiphan Piticharoenkit, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Young Entrepreneur Chamber of Commerce (YEC), Nakhon Si Thammarat Chamber of Commerce; and Mr. Charoen To-itatae, representative of the Blue Swimming Crab Bank Learning Center.
The panel explored approaches to human resource development, community capacity building, and stronger collaboration between the University, government agencies, the private sector, communities, and other local stakeholders.
The event reflected Walailak University’s commitment to connecting academic knowledge with the real needs of communities. Through open communication and collaboration, the University seeks to ensure that progress in education, economic development, social well-being, and quality of life can move forward together in a balanced and sustainable manner.
By strengthening relationships with Tha Sala District and surrounding communities, Walailak University continues to position itself not only as an institution of higher education, but also as a partner in local development—working alongside communities to create opportunities, apply knowledge, and address shared challenges.
Walailak University — “A Pillar of the Community”: Learning Together, Developing Together, and Growing Together with the Community.
Photos by: Division of Corporate Communication, Walailak University
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