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  • 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 Leadership Joins Africa Day 2026 Celebration in Bangkok

    On Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at 6:00 PM, at the Rembrandt Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 18, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), together with Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs, attended the celebration marking the anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), commemorated as Africa Day 2026. The event was held upon the invitation of H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco and Dean of the Group of African Head of Missions accredited in the Kingdom of Thailand.

    Africa Day marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the predecessor of the African Union (AU), in 1963. The celebration recognizes the progress Africans have made over the years while also reflecting on the shared challenges they continue to face in a changing global environment.

    The event featured exhibitions showcasing the rich cultural diversity and distinctive identities of the African continent. Activities included live musical performances, displays of traditional national attire, as well as booths offering authentic African handicrafts and traditional cuisine.

  • 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 provides first aid and CPR training for Nonthaburi police

    The School of Nursing at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with the Provincial Police Region of Nonthaburi, organized its second community academic service program aimed at equipping police officers with essential first aid and emergency response skills. The training focused on assisting victims with severe injuries, fractures, choking incidents, seizures, stroke symptoms, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) through the project titled “Rehabilitation, Basic First Aid, and the Use of AED.”

    The training was held on 14 May 2026 at the main conference hall of the STOU Library and Learning Resources Center. The opening ceremony was presided over by Major General Decharapee Khongdee, Commander of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police, while Assistant Professor Dr. Pavin Chinachoti, STOU Vice-President for General Administration and Human Resources, delivered the welcome remarks.

    This marked the second year of the program following the successful training of more than 70 police officers from several districts in Nonthaburi Province last year. This year, over 50 police officers participated, along with members of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police Housewives Association and staff from STOU’s Office of Academic Resources and Information Technology, bringing the total number of participants to more than 70. The sessions were led by professional nurses from Thanyaburi Hospital and faculty members from STOU.

    The program was organized in recognition of the critical role police officers often play as first responders to emergencies and accidents. Providing them with knowledge and practical skills in first aid and basic life support is essential to reducing casualties and improving the chances of survival for members of the public during emergency situations.

  • STOU Hosts “Urban Agriculture and Healthy Food for Self-Reliance” Exhibition

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), in collaboration with various network partners, recently organized the exhibition and learning event “Wisdom of Urban Agriculture and Healthy Food for Self-Reliance.” The initiative aims to apply the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy as a practical guide to navigate modern global changes, focusing on household self-reliance and long-term health.

    The event is a result of integrated cooperation between STOU and key partners, including: Morkeaw Foundation (Buddhist Medicine Foundation of Thailand), The Agricultural Museum (Public Organization), Nonthaburi Food Policy Council, The Union of Thai Traditional Medicine Society, as well as STOU Internal Units: Rajamangalaphisek Education Park, the School of Health Science, the Research Center of Communication and Development Knowledge Management (CCDKM), and the Community Resource Center (CRC).

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, presided over the opening ceremony. He noted that amidst global economic, social, and environmental shifts, the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy remains a vital compass for stable and sustainable living.

    The President emphasized that “Urban Agriculture” and “Healthy Food” are concrete tools for building food security and reducing health risks at the grassroots level. STOU remains committed to the royal legacy of “Sustain, Preserve, and Continue” by developing systematic learning processes that link food, health, and self-reliance.

    The exhibition featured a wide range of educational activities designed for all ages to apply in daily life:
    Keynote Sessions: Special lectures by Dr. Jaiphet Klatham (Mor Keaw) and experts in food security.
    Exhibitions: Showcases on the “23 Principles of Work” (Royal Teachings) and the nutritional wonders of indigenous vegetables.
    Health Demonstrations: Traditional “Tok Sen” massage demonstrations and herbal detoxification techniques.
    Workshops & Giveaways: Distributions of seedlings and plant cuttings, alongside a marketplace for health-conscious products and sufficiency-style agricultural goods.

    This event underscores STOU’s role as a lifelong learning institution dedicated to empowering communities through practical wisdom and sustainable health practices.

  • STOU delegation attends the 28th OU5 Bi-Annual Summit in Vietnam

    On 20–24 April 2026, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), led a delegation of faculty and researchers to the 28th OU5 Bi-Annual Summit in Halong, Vietnam.

    Accompanying the President was Mrs. Rattip Phukkeson, Head of Internationalization Development and STOU’s OU5 Coordinator, along with five distinguished researchers:

    • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nareerut Seerasarn (School of Agriculture and Cooperatives)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan (School of Health Science)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Patthanan Bootchuy (Office of Educational Technology)
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Kajornsak Sitti (School of Political Science)
    • Dr. Choneratt Suriyarangsun (School of Liberal Arts)

    The OU5 group is a strategic alliance of five leading distance-learning open universities in the ASEAN region. The summit serves as a platform to enhance distance education, collaborative research, and pedagogical innovation. The member institutions include:

    • Hanoi Open University (HOU) – Vietnam (Host for this summit)
    • Open University Malaysia (OUM) – Malaysia
    • University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) – Philippines
    • Universitas Terbuka (UT) – Indonesia
    • Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) – Thailand

    A total of 35 participants, including university presidents, coordinators, and researchers, attended the meetings. The hosting duties rotate among the members, with the next summit scheduled for November 2026 in Magelang, Indonesia.

    Before the main summit on 21 April 21 2026, Hanoi Open University hosted an international conference titled “Digital Economy in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.” During this academic event, Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs at STOU, was honored to serve as the Chairperson for the academic paper presentation sessions throughout the conference.

  • 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.