My Company

Category: Happenings

  • STOU Partners with Institute of Community Colleges to Expand Educational Opportunities and Drive Sustainable Community Development

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Institute of Community Colleges (ICC) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic and educational management cooperation. The partnership aims to build an educational network, align curricula, and provide community college graduates with direct pathways to pursue bachelor’s degrees. By pooling resources and expertise, both institutions seek to elevate educational quality and foster sustainable community development.

    On Monday, 29 June 2026, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, and Mr. Charoenchai Wongjinda, Director of the Institute of Community Colleges, co-siged the agreement at the Library and Learning Center Building, STOU Headquarters in Nonthaburi. Executives and staff from both organizations witnessed the ceremony.

    The core mission of this 5-year agreement is to synergize educational capabilities and resources to develop Thailand’s human resources, address local needs, and support sustainable economic and social growth. The collaboration focuses on equipping citizens with actionable skills to improve their careers and quality of life through several initiatives:

    • Curriculum Alignment & Degree Pathways: Developing certificate, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and training programs tailored to student and community needs. Crucially, ICC graduates will be eligible to seamlessly transition into STOU’s bachelor’s degree programs, creating a continuous learning pathway from associate to higher degrees.
    • Resource Sharing: Sharing personnel, academic insights, facilities, and technology to maximize benefits for students and local communities.
    • Student Support & Outreach: Cooperating on educational counseling, public relations, and student recruitment.
    • Community Engagement: Promoting academic and professional services, local wisdom, arts and culture, and digital learning innovations.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, emphasized that as an open university utilizing a distance education system, STOU is dedicated to expanding higher education access and promoting lifelong learning. This aligns perfectly with the ICC’s mission to strengthen local communities.

    “This collaboration is a major milestone in connecting and developing our curricula, exchanging knowledge and educational innovations, and co-executing academic service projects that directly address the needs of local economies and regional communities,” Dr. Thaweewat stated.

    The partnership between STOU and the Institute of Community Colleges marks a significant step forward in reducing educational barriers. By creating a flexible, interconnected, and accessible learning pathway, both institutions ensure that citizens across all regions can access higher education equitably and sustainably. A joint working committee will be established to coordinate, drive, monitor, and evaluate the progress of the projects under this agreement to ensure all shared goals are met.

  • STOU Holds Memorial Service for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha

    On 15 June 2026, at 9:00 AM, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held a solemn memorial service for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Krom Luang Ratchasarinee Siripatchara Maha Weeraratthida at the main auditorium of Phitthayaphat Building.

    The ceremony was presided over by Professor Emeritus Tongthong Chandransu, Chairman of the STOU University Council, and attended by university executives, faculty members, and staff.

    During the service, the STOU community expressed their deepest gratitude for Her Royal Highness’s boundless royal benevolence. Throughout her life, the Princess dedicated herself to numerous royal duties and initiatives aimed at fostering the well-being of the public and the nation.

    Her notable contributions included her leadership in reforming the judicial system and improving the quality of life for underprivileged groups through the “Kamlangjai” (Inspire) Project. Furthermore, her extensive humanitarian relief work through the “Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, Thai Red Cross Society” stands as a testament to her profound compassion for the Thai people.

    The university executives, faculty, and staff also gathered to honor the outstanding capabilities and academic achievements of Her Royal Highness, who was one of the university’s most distinguished alumnae.

    Princess Bajrakitiyabha graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Political Science in International Relations and Comparative Politics, from STOU. She achieved First-Class Honors and received her degree alongside the Golden Tri Sorn Pin (an award for outstanding academic excellence) during the graduation ceremony on 17 January 2001, at Amporn Sathan Throne Hall. This achievement remains a source of ultimate pride and honor for the university. To allow the public to express their condolences, STOU has provided a book of condolence. Faculty, staff, and the general public are invited to sign their names at Parichat Lawn, located at the front of the university campus.

  • STOU Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Monument of King Rama IX

    On 26 May 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held a sacred groundbreaking ceremony (the “First Soil” ceremony) to mark the commencement of the construction of the royal monument of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (King Rama IX).

    The ceremony, held at the Office of Traditional Arts under the Fine Arts Department in Nakhon Pathom Province, was presided over by Emeritus Prof. Tongthong Chandransu, Chairman of the STOU University Council. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, delivered the opening report detailing the significance and objectives of the project.

    The construction of the King Rama IX Royal Monument is envisioned not merely as a memorial, but as a profound symbol of loyalty and boundless gratitude towards the late monarch. It reflects STOU’s unwavering commitment to carrying forward the King’s royal determination to expand educational opportunities in Thailand. This initiative aims to ensure that all Thai citizens have equal access to high-quality knowledge, effectively and equitably bridging the educational gap in society, in alignment with the royal remarks given to the university by King Rama IX:

    “ The establishment of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University can be deemed the opening of a truly modern university – one that enables those with the ability to seek knowledge and expertise to step forward into bold new horizons. It is clear that Thais are an intelligent people, lacking only opportunities to expand their own knowledge and ability. They are an intelligent people who have shown that when given the chance to study at advanced levels, their accomplishments are equal to – and sometimes even surpass – the achievements of other civilized nations. It is therefore fitting to give all Thai people such an opportunity for further study….”

    — Royal proclamation granted on 5 November 1981, when Prof. Dr. Wichit Srisa-an, the founding president of STOU, presented the university’s land title deeds to His Majesty.

    To ensure the smooth progress and success of the construction, a sacred worship and blessing ceremony (Phiti Buang Suang) was performed to pay respects to sacred entities and traditional masters. This ritual served to boost the morale of the university staff, artisans, and all involved parties. Upon completion, the royal monument will be permanently enshrined at the Rajamangalaphisek Education Park on the STOU campus. It will stand as a lasting tribute to His Majesty’s immense grace and serve as the spiritual heart of the STOU community and the Thai people for generations to come.

  • STOU Welcomes Kumutmas School Nonthaburi, Hosting Sustainable Outdoor Learning Activities

    On 28 May 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) warmly welcomed executives, teachers, and students from Kumutmas School, Nonthaburi, for a study tour aimed at promoting and supporting sustainable outdoor learning.

    The visiting delegation included Mrs. Atchana Kampanatsaenyakorn, the School Director, along with teachers and 17 second-grade (Grade 2) students at the STOU headquarters in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi.

    STOU tailored activities to foster effective and sustainable learning experiences outside the classroom for the elementary students. The itinerary included:

    • Organic Worm Composting Workshop: Held at the Urban Agriculture Learning Center, School of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
    • STOU History & Heritage Tour: An educational walk through the Ratchamangkhalaphisek Educational Park.
    • Library Exploration & Eco-Friendly Workshop: A tour of the Library and Learning Center, followed by a creative “Eco-Bag Painting” workshop on the 1st floor.
    • Creative Media Production Experience: An inside look at broadcasting and media creation at the Educational Broadcasting Production Center (EBPC).

    During the visit, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, personally greeted the delegation from Kumutmas School.

    “STOU is delighted to welcome everyone. We are fully committed to promoting all forms of learning, whether through academic services or educational activities,” Dr. Taweewat stated. “This is especially true for our youth, who will become the driving force behind the sustainable development of our country in every dimension.”

    The visit concluded with a group photo session and a presentation of souvenirs to the faculty of Kumutmas School. STOU expressed its gratitude to the school for recognizing the university’s potential as a premier and sustainable educational hub for outdoor learning within Nonthaburi Province.

  • STOU and NSM Sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Environment

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the National Science Museum (NSM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen academic collaboration and jointly promote knowledge development in science, technology, innovation, and environmental studies. The partnership also aims to enhance lifelong learning opportunities for youth and the public, contributing to the creation of a sustainable learning society.

    The signing ceremony took place on 21 May 2026 at the Library and Learning Resources Center, STOU. Executives and staff members from both organizations attended the event as witnesses. The collaboration seeks to integrate academic expertise and resources from both institutions to develop learning activities, expand public academic services, disseminate knowledge, and facilitate exchanges of personnel, research, and educational resources. The initiative is expected to broaden access to science, technology, and environmental education for people of all ages.

    During the event, introductory videos highlighting the missions and roles of both organizations were presented to provide insight into future collaborative efforts.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, delivered a welcoming address emphasizing the significance of the partnership. He stated that, as an open university, STOU is committed to promoting lifelong learning and developing knowledge that responds to societal and technological changes. These goals align closely with NSM’s role as a national learning hub for science, technology, innovation, and environmental education.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Deputy Director and Acting Director of the National Science Museum, noted that the agreement represents another important step toward strengthening academic networks and expanding educational platforms that deliver scientific and environmental knowledge to Thai society in a broad and inclusive manner.

    The MOU was formally signed by Associate Professor Dr. Taweewat Wattanakulcharoen, President of STOU, and Mr. Suwarong Wongsiri, Deputy Director and Acting Director of NSM. Witnesses to the signing included Assistant Professor Dr. Pathanin Saeng-arun, Director of the Office of Academic Resources and Information Technology, STOU, and Dr. Kannika Chen, Deputy Director of the National Science Museum. Following the ceremony, NSM executives and personnel toured the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center, where they explored the university’s learning facilities and educational innovations. Featured areas included educational media service spaces, collaborative learning zones, the Music Therapy Room, and creative activity spaces. The visit highlighted STOU’s capabilities in supporting lifelong learning and delivering comprehensive academic services in the digital era.

  • STOU, TCU, and TPQI sign MOU to Advance Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development in Thailand

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) has joined forces with the Thai Cyber University Project (TCU), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), and the Thailand Professional Qualification Institute (TPQI) to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening Thailand’s lifelong learning ecosystem and connecting education with the workforce to sustainably develop national competencies under the concept “STOU FOR ALL.”

    On 20 May 2026, STOU organized the MOU signing ceremony under the theme “STOU FOR ALL: Connecting Education, Careers, and the Future.” The initiative seeks to integrate educational opportunities with workforce development and create a more accessible, continuous learning system for people of all ages. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Wannee Nonsiri, Chief Inspector General at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, at the conference hall of the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center.

    The agreement was signed by senior representatives from the three institutions, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU; Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khaisang, Director of TCU Project; and Ms. Jullada Meejul, Director General of TPQI.

    The collaboration focuses on several key objectives:

    • Promoting lifelong learning by expanding equal access to knowledge and educational opportunities for learners of all ages.
    • Developing systems for credit transfer and recognition of work experience, including the Credit Bank and Competency Credit Bank frameworks, enabling learning achievements and professional experiences to be formally recognized.
    • Advancing research, educational innovation, digital technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) to build future-ready learning systems.

    In addition to the signing ceremony, the event featured an academic forum where executives from STOU, Thai MOOC, and TPQI exchanged perspectives on strengthening lifelong learning policies and workforce competency development under the concept “One Worker, One Learning Opportunity.”

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen stated that “STOU FOR ALL promotes lifelong learning for students, learners, and the general public by connecting educational pathways across institutions through the Credit Bank system, enabling learners to accumulate credits toward academic and professional qualifications, ultimately leading to a degree from STOU.”

    Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khaisang emphasized TCU’s role as a bridge between institutions and government services, with STOU serving as a key driving force in developing learning programs that effectively respond to learners’ needs.

    Meanwhile, Ms. Jullada Meejul highlighted the importance of competency measurement for working-age populations, noting that professional qualifications can help connect workforce experience with education pathways and create tangible opportunities for career and skill advancement.

    Participants also visited STOU’s online examination management system at the university’s 80th Anniversary Commemoration Building. The system integrates modern technology and artificial intelligence (AI) with institutional expertise to enhance the quality and security of online assessments, improve evaluation processes for distance and online learning programs, and reduce opportunities for academic misconduct. Through the STOU FOR ALL initiative, STOU continues to expand educational opportunities while supporting professional development across its 12 academic schools. The university is currently accepting applications for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, dual-degree, and short-term future skills development programs.

  • STOU holds 20th Southern STOU Relations Games in Phuket

    Phuket, 24–26 April 2026 – Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) successfully held the 20th Southern STOU Relations Games under the theme “Green & Gold Relations: Andaman Games.” The event gathered over 200 participants from network clubs across 14 southern provinces to strengthen unity, promote health, and engage in environmental conservation at The Pago Design Hotel Phuket.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Karn Boonsiri, Vice President for Academic Services, Networing, and Special Affairs, presided over the opening ceremony, with Mr. Ronnarit Chusong, President of the STOU Phuket Student Club, delivering the report.

    The Andaman Games was co-organized by STOU Phuket Student Club, STOU Phuket Alumni Club, and the STOU Nakhon Si Thammarat Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center.

    The project focused on four strategic dimensions:

    Health & Sports: Encouraging physical exercise and friendly competition among students, alumni, faculty, and community networks.
    Policy Alignment: Providing a platform for students and alumni to understand the university’s future directions and policies.
    Network Strength: Fostering solidarity across the 14 southern provinces to build a robust support system and reduce student dropout rates.
    Social & Environmental Responsibility: Raising environmental awareness, promoting local tourism, and preserving cultural identity.

    The three-day program featured a blend of social responsibility and athletic competition:

    CSR Initiative: A beach cleanup and landscaping activity at Saphan Hin Beach to promote “Green Phuket.”
    Sports Competitions: Matches in Futsal, Volleyball, Chairball, and various traditional folk games, complemented by a cheering squad contest.
    Green & Gold Gala Night: A social gathering featuring awards for new graduates and students who successfully passed three courses in a single semester.
    Executive Meet-and-Greet: An open session for university leadership to engage directly with students and alumni.

    The event saw immense cooperation from both public and private sectors, including the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization, Phuket City Municipality, Phuket Wittayalai School, Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation, Patong Development Foundation, the Third Naval Area Command, and the STOU Association.

    This collective effort underscores the enduring strength and sustainability of the STOU network in Southern Thailand.

  • Democratic Youth Project 2026

    Parliament House, April 22, 2026 – Mr. Sopon Sarum, President of the National Assembly, presided over the opening ceremony of the ” Democratic Youth 2026″ program. This initiative is a result of academic cooperation between the School of Human Ecology at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. The ceremony was attended by executives and faculty members from STOU.

    During the event, the President of the National Assembly addressed the significance of young people as the nation’s vital driving force and the future of Thai democracy. He emphasized that sustainable national development must begin with the cultivation of high-quality youth.

    The Democratic Youth activities were held from 21–30 April 2026, at the Seminar and Training Center, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University.

  • STOU Graduation Ceremony: Academic Year 2023

    On 19 April 2026, Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida traveled to the Anek Nithat Building at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) in Pakkret, Nonthaburi on the occasion of the graduation ceremony of the 2023 academic year graduates (Class 42). They were received upon arrival by Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana.

    This year, the STOU University Council unanimously resolved to present honorary doctoral degrees to two members of the Royal Family for their outstanding contributions to the nation:

    • HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn: Conferred with an Honorary Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension and Development. This honor recognizes her tireless dedication to education, human resource development, and the practical implementation of the “Sufficiency Economy Philosophy” in agriculture.
    • HRH Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana: Conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Science. The degree honors her determination to improve the quality of life for Thai citizens through the establishment of Chulabhorn Hospital, the Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, and the “Disease-Free Animals, Safe Humans from Rabies” project.

    For the 2023 academic year, a total of 8,832 students completed their studies across various levels:

    • Undergraduate: 7,637 graduates from 11 disciplines.
    • Master’s Degree: 871 graduates from 12 disciplines.
    • Doctoral Degree: 24 graduates from 4 disciplines.

    Distinctions of Excellence:

    • 65 Graduates received Honors (17 First-Class, 48 Second-Class).
    • 7 Graduates were awarded the prestigious “Golden Tri-Sorn Pin” for achieving First-Class Honors with top-tier academic scores.
    • The graduating class also included 18 graduates with disabilities, 35 monks, and one nun, reflecting STOU’s commitment to inclusive education.

    During the ceremony, His Majesty the King delivered a royal address, offering wisdom for the graduates’ future paths:

    “In living one’s life and pursuing a career—regardless of the era—one must possess immense mental fortitude and stability to avoid succumbing to obstacles or hardships. One must maintain self-control always to do what is right. I ask all graduates to diligently cultivate mindfulness (self-awareness) and wisdom (reasoning) so they may grow into a powerful strength for your lives thereafter.”

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University remains a leader in distance learning, adhering to the philosophy of Lifelong Learning. By utilizing various media and research-driven curricula, STOU aims to resolve national crises and enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness. Over its 47-year history, STOU has produced a total of 543,031 undergraduate alumni and 19,237 postgraduate alumni, cementing its role as a vital institution for human resource development in Thailand.

  • STOU and Secretariat of the House of Representatives Sign MOU to Promote Democracy and Civic Education

    On Friday, 3 April 2026, at 2:30 PM, at Special Lounge 205, 2nd Floor, Parliament Building, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic cooperation with the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. This partnership aims to integrate academic knowledge with parliamentary expertise to drive democratic promotion activities for Thai youth and the general public.

    The ceremony featured the following key representatives:

    • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU.
    • Mr. Sirote Patpun, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives.

    The signing was witnessed by Mrs. Jongduan Suttirat, Deputy Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Saynamphung Tongsai, Dean of the School of Human Ecology at STOU. Executives, faculty members, and staff from both organizations also attended the ceremony.

    The primary goal of this collaboration is to foster understanding and develop appropriate attitudes toward the democratic system of government with the King as Head of State. This will be achieved through the synergy between the Democracy Promotion and House of Representatives Activities Group and the academic expertise of STOU’s School of Human Ecology.

    Key areas of focus include:

    • Civic Education: Developing curricula and activities to empower students and the public to live effectively and responsibly within a democratic society.
    • Political Participation: Creating channels and opportunities for citizens to engage with the parliamentary system accurately and in accordance with democratic principles.
    • Youth Support: Strengthening the “Democratic Youth” project, a long-standing initiative that has been operational for over 25 years.

    As a state higher education institution, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University reaffirmed its readiness to provide multi-disciplinary academic support. This partnership ensures that democratic promotion initiatives are implemented efficiently, providing maximum benefit to the nation and its citizens.