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  • 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.

  • STOU and NACC ink pact to combat corruption through education and innovation

    3 April 2026 — Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance academic cooperation, research, and innovation aimed at promoting transparency and good governance in Thai society.

    The signing ceremony took place at STOU’s Administration Building, featuring Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, and Mr. Surapong Intharathaworn, Secretary-General of the NACC. Key executives from both institutions witnessed the landmark agreement.

    This strategic partnership focuses on three core pillars:

    • Academic and Research Excellence: Collaborative efforts to conduct in-depth research and analyze data regarding anti-corruption measures under the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption B.E. 2561 (2018). The findings will serve as a critical database for policy development.
    • Innovation and Knowledge Dissemination: Leveraging STOU’s expertise in distance learning to develop educational innovations. The goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of misconduct among public and private sectors, students, and the general public, fostering a “zero-tolerance” culture.

    Curriculum Development: Integrating anti-corruption laws, constitutional law, and public procurement regulations into academic programs to equip learners with specialized legal knowledge and strong ethical standards.

  • STOU Strengthens International Ties at “Friends of Saskatchewan” Event

    On Thursday, 26 February 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) reaffirmed its commitment to global academic excellence by participating in the “Friends of Saskatchewan” event. The gathering, held in the Sukhumvit area, celebrated the enduring connections and professional contributions of Saskatchewan alumni and partners within Thailand.

    Representing STOU were Asst. Prof. Dr. Songlak Sakulwichitsintu, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, Information Technology, and International Affairs, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Worrawit Nakpan, Director of the Department of International Affairs. The event served as a high-level networking platform, bringing together Thai educational leaders and a visiting delegation from the Government of Saskatchewan, Canada.

    Dr. Songlak engaged with Canadian representatives to explore synergies in digital learning innovation and collaborative research. Both parties expressed a keen interest in Faculty Mobility, Joint Research Initiatives, and Knowledge Sharing.

    The attendance of STOU’s leadership underscores the university’s strategic goal of positioning itself as a leader in international distance education through robust global partnerships. The “Friends of Saskatchewan” event has paved the way for future Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) that will further bridge the academic communities of Thailand and Canada.

  • STOU Hosts Back-to-Back Global Printing and Packaging Events in March 2026

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) reinforces its status as a premier hub for learning and international seminars. This March, the university was selected as the venue for two major consecutive events in the global printing and packaging industry, held at the Main Conference Room, G Floor, Library and Learning Resources Center.

    STOU Press served as the primary coordinator for the venue and logistics. In addition to hosting, the university’s personnel participated in these sessions to update their knowledge on world-class technologies and hosted workshop booths to showcase STOU’s own printing capabilities and standards.

    These events provided a vital platform for experts, brand owners, and designers from across the region to exchange insights and elevate printing quality standards.

    16–17 March 2026: Bangkok Packaging Master Class 2026

    Organized by Idealliance Southeast Asia, Japan & Korea, Graphics World, and Idealliance Taiwan. This intensive two-day workshop focused on bridging the “communication gap” between creative designers and production teams. The goal was to minimize waste and ensure consistent quality control in packaging production.

    18 March 2026: The G7+ Exchange Conference Asia 2026

    A high-level seminar dedicated to Modern Color Management. The conference featured world-renowned experts, including Ray Weiss from the PRINTING United Alliance and Ron Ellis,
    a leading specialist in G7+ systems, who shared global strategies and industry best practices. This collaboration underscores STOU’s commitment to integrating academic excellence with industry-leading technology on an international scale.

  • Chiba University Executives Visit STOU to Strengthen Academic Ties

    On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) formally welcomed Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shinji Kikuchi from Chiba University, Japan.

    The primary objective of this visit was to facilitate a knowledge exchange regarding instructional management and collaborative research with STOU’s School of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

    Key discussion points included:

    • Undergraduate Internships: Establishing frameworks for student practical training.
    • Graduate Study Tours: Securing study sites and field visits for postgraduate students, specifically those majoring in Plant Production Management.
    • Student Exchange Programs: Exploring reciprocal opportunities for students from both institutions to enhance their international academic experience.

    Following the academic discussions, the delegation visited the Educational Broadcasting Production Center (EBPC). Led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Wachira Brahmawong from the Office of Educational Technology, the tour showcased STOU’s advanced production processes
    for distance learning media.

    This meeting marks a significant milestone in strengthening the academic partnership between STOU and Chiba University. It paves the way for future international collaboration in teaching, research, and specialized agricultural development.

  • HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Presides over the Opening of “Phorn Panya Library” at Sawankhalok District Prison

    12 February 2026 – Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously presided over the official opening ceremony of the “Phorn Panya Library” at Sawankhalok District Prison, Sukhothai Province. During the visit, Her Royal Highness also presented commemorative pins to representatives of organizations supporting the initiative, including Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU).

    At 3:20 PM, Her Royal Highness arrived at Sawankhalok District Prison and was received by Mr. Somluck Yoknoiwong, Vice Governor of Sukhothai; Pol Lt Gen Rutthapon Naowarat, Minister of Justice; Mrs. Pongsawat Neelayothin, Permanent Secretary for Justice; Pol Lt Col Prawut Wongsinin, Director-General of the Department of Corrections; and Mr. Decha Klakhaeng, Commander of Sawankhalok District Prison.

    During the ceremony, the Director-General of the Department of Corrections presented the list of executives and benefactors to receive commemorative pins. Representing STOU, Asst Professor Dr. Karn Boonsiri, Vice-President for Academic Services, Networking, and Special Affairs, was appointed by the University President to receive the royal honor in recognition of the university’s steadfast support for the prison library.

    Her Royal Highness officially inaugurated the “Phorn Panya Library” and inspected its operations, which include the “Opportunity Vehicle”—a mobile library designed to deliver knowledge directly to inmates. Her Royal Highness also signed the commemorative stone plaque, granted royal gift bags to representatives of male and female inmates, planted a Magnolia sirindhorniae tree to mark the occasion, and toured exhibitions on inmate rehabilitation and vocational training programs organized by partner networks.

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University plays a pivotal role in the “Phorn Panya Library” project by providing comprehensive educational resources to inmates, breaking down barriers to learning within the correctional system. STOU’s contributions include:

    • Learning Resources: Providing textbooks, workbooks, and instructional media across various disciplines.
    • Audiovisual Support: Enabling inmates to access supplementary distance learning sessions despite spatial constraints.
    • Examination Systems: Coordinating with the prison to establish special on-site examination centers, managed by STOU faculty and correctional officers to maintain academic standards.
    • Reading Promotion: Collaborative activities with the School of Liberal Arts (Information and Library Science) to teach reading and summarization techniques.
    • Bibliotherapy: Using literature as a tool to reduce stress and improve the mental well-being of inmates.

    By integrating these services, STOU successfully transforms the prison environment into a “Distance Learning Center,” embodying the university’s core philosophy: “Lifelong Education for All.”

  • STOU Partners with Rubber Authority of Thailand to Elevate Education and Innovation for Farmers Nationwide

    11 February 2026 – Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) and the Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to drive a comprehensive human resource development strategy for the Thai rubber industry. The partnership aims to expand educational opportunities, integrate research, and provide academic services to strengthen the global competitiveness of Thailand’s agricultural sector.

    The signing ceremony took place at the Executive Meeting Room, STOU Library and Learning Center. The agreement was signed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweewat Watthanakuljaroen, President of STOU, and Mr. Kosol Boonkong, Deputy Governor (Administration) acting on behalf of the Governor of RAOT, witnessed by senior executives from both organizations.

    As a leader in distance education, STOU’s mission is to provide lifelong learning opportunities. This collaboration leverages STOU’s online media and remote teaching systems to support. Rubber farmers and their successors and RAOT personnel seeking professional advancement across all regions can gain access to undergraduate, graduate, and short-term certificate programs, overcoming the barriers of geographical distance and working hours.

    This initiative aligns with RAOT’s mission to manage the rubber ecosystem comprehensively. The primary beneficiaries include: 1.7 million registered rubber farmers; 6 million family members and heirs; and 3,500 RAOT staff members. By integrating academic research across the entire supply chain, the partnership seeks to increase the value of rubber products and transform farming institutions into professional rubber entrepreneurs, in line with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives’ strategic goals.

    The MOU outlines four strategic areas of focus:

    1. Capacity Building: Jointly developing skills through distance learning and training programs to enhance knowledge and academic standing.
    2. Research and Development: Integrating research from “upstream” production and “midstream” processing to “downstream” marketing to create practical innovations.
    3. Academic Services: Launching knowledge-sharing projects by linking STOU’s regional centers with RAOT’s research and learning centers nationwide.
    4. Cultural and Wisdom Preservation: Promoting local wisdom and cultural activities related to the rubber industry on both national and international levels.

    This partnership marks a significant milestone in merging academic expertise with agricultural resource management to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Thai rubber industry.

  • STOU Joins RAOT Vision Meeting: Driving the Future of Thai Rubber towards Global Sustainability

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) recently participated in the high-level executive forum “RAOT Vision Meeting: Rubber Forward – Connecting the Present to a Sustainable Future,” held from 23–25 January 2026, at Sand Dunes Chaolao Beach Resort, Chanthaburi.

    The forum served as a critical platform for the Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT) to reassess the direction of the Thai rubber industry. Discussions focused on adapting to rapid global shifts, including stringent environmental regulations, the rise of the digital economy, and the overarching challenges of sustainability.

    Representing STOU’s commitment to lifelong learning, the university delegation was led by:

    • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Padcharee Phasuk, Vice-President for Academic Affairs.
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Pimprapa Phanphai, Assistant to the President.
    • Asst. Prof. Dr. Pudinan Adithipyangkul, Deputy Dean of the School of Economics.

    STOU is set to provide concrete support to RAOT through three core strategic pillars:

    1. Educational Development & Modern Farming: Cultivating a new generation of “Smart Farmers” equipped with entrepreneurial mindsets, digital literacy, and a deep understanding of global market production chains.
    2. Research & Innovation: Advancing Smart Agriculture and sustainability-focused research to provide data-driven insights for policy-making and practical implementation.
    3. Lifelong Learning Systems: Utilizing STOU’s expertise in distance education to offer flexible curricula and Micro-credentials. This enables farmers and RAOT personnel to gain certified specialized skills through short-term, hands-on training rather than traditional four-year degree programs.

    This workshop marks a significant milestone in “laying the knowledge foundation” to support RAOT’s new enterprise plan. By bridging academic expertise with industrial needs, STOU and RAOT aim to ensure that the Thai rubber industry remains resilient, modern, and globally competitive.

    “We are moving beyond theory to action—ensuring that every rubber farmer has the tools to thrive in a digital and green economy.”

  • STOU Celebrates Alumni Success: Gold Medal Triumph at the 13th ASEAN Para Games

    Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) proudly congratulates its distinguished alumni for their outstanding achievements at the 13th ASEAN Para Games (2025), held in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Their dedication has brought immense pride to both the university and the nation.

    Our alumni played a pivotal role in securing the Gold Medal for the Thai National Women’s 5×5 Wheelchair Basketball Team, leading the squad to a spectacular victory in the final round.

    The Champions Behind the Success

    • Ms. Wikanda Phuekkradang (Athlete)
      • Education: Bachelor of Arts (Thai Studies), School of Liberal Arts.
      • Achievement: A key playmaker whose exceptional performance and determination were instrumental in the team’s journey to the top of the podium.
    • Ms. Anurak Sirinikon (Coach)
      • Education: Master of Arts (Information Science), School of Liberal Arts.
      • Achievement: A dedicated strategist and mentor whose rigorous training and vision empowered the athletes to reach the pinnacle of Southeast Asian sports.
    Ms. Wikanda Phuekkradang (Athlete)
    Ms. Anurak Sirinikon (Coach)

    This success is a testament to their remarkable ability to balance the rigors of distance learning at STOU with the demands of representing Thailand at an elite international level.

    The 13th ASEAN Para Games concluded on 26 January 2026, with Thailand finishing as the overall champion for the 7th time. The Thai delegation delivered a historic performance, securing a total of 488 medals:

    • 175 Gold Medals
    • 155 Silver Medals
    • 158 Bronze Medals

    Thailand was followed in the rankings by Indonesia and Malaysia, respectively.

    STOU continues to champion educational equity through its Educational Support Center for Students with Disabilities (DSS). The university provides comprehensive services to ensure all students can pursue their academic goals, including:

    • Academic counseling and personalized education plans.
    • Accessible media production for the visually impaired.
    • Educational subsidies and financial grants.
    • Technological training and assistive tool development.

    Our services cater to a diverse student body, including those with visual, physical, learning, intellectual, behavioral, or emotional impairments, as well as students with autism and multiple disabilities.

    “At STOU, we believe that physical barriers should never be a barrier to education. We remain committed to fostering an environment where every student can excel both in the classroom and on the global stage.”