Blog

  • Developing Health Literacy for the Elderly in Nonthaburi Province by STOU

    On 8 September 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), through its School of Nursing and School of Science and Technology, collaborated to organize an academic outreach titled “Developing Health Literacy for the Elderly in Nonthaburi Province: The Use of AI and Applications in Healthcare.” The project aims to enhance digital skills and promote self-care among the elderly in the area.

    In this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narathip Sriram, Acting Vice-President for Education, Learning Support, and Research, presided over the event among over 100 participants.

    This project was initiated in response to Thailand’s transition into a “completely aging society” in Nonthaburi since 2024. Furthermore, rapid technological changes have led to greater public access to online media. Surveys show that elderly, particularly those in the Generation X group (ages 58-76), have limited digital skills in accessing and using information for their own health and that of those around them. They are also at risk of cyber threats.

    The project aims to improve the digital health literacy of the elderly, enabling them to access health information knowledgeably, protect themselves from scammers and cyber threats, and effectively use AI and applications as beneficial tools for learning, daily living, and healthcare for themselves, their families, their communities, and society.

  • Digital Health & Nursing: Integrating Technology for Patient Safety Conference

    On 12 September 2025, The School of Nursing at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized “Digital Health & Nursing: Integrating Technology for Patient Safety” Conference and reunion in celebration of STOU’s 47th anniversary on
    5 September 2025. The activities took place at STOU headquarters. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the conference opening.

    The speakers of the conference consisted of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suchittra Luangamornlert, President of the Thailand Nursing and Midwifery Council, Dr. Pattarawin Attasara, Director of Digital Medical Bureau of Department of Medical Services, and
    RN Wirongrong Charoengid, Director of Nursing Department Bangkok Hospital.

    The conference aimed to educate over 100 attendees, including professional nurses, nursing instructors, alumni, students, and general, on integrating technology for patient safety. Participants also had the opportunity to exchange experiences and learn how to apply this knowledge effectively in their careers. In addition to the main conference, the Nursing Graduate Club held
    a club meeting and organized a “Wai Kru” ceremony as part of the activities.

  • STOU signed MOU with Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office

    On 9 September 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office took place at STOU headquarters.

    The MOU was signed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, and Dr. Paripon Juljerm, Chief of the Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office. Furthermore, the administrators from both institutions joined as ceremony witnesses.

    This partnership seeks to improve the knowledge and skills of staff at the Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office and
    the School of Health Science of STOU through shared academic and research projects, focusing on ongoing community education, sharing information, and offering academic services to the public. The ultimate goal is to maximize mutual benefits by improving the operational efficiency of both government agencies.

  • 47th STOU Anniversary Celebration

    On 5 September 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized Samsorn Plaque of Honor Offering Ceremony in celebrating 47th year Anniversary of STOU at Aneknitat Building (Conference Hall). Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the ceremony.

    Mr. Nontaphon Nimsomboon, Distinguished Members of the University Council, presented the Samsorn Plaque of Honor.
    The Plaque of Honor is the highest honor and recognition bestowed by STOU. It is awarded to organizations or individuals who have provided assistance, promotion, and support for STOU’s educational management.

    4 organizations included:

    – The Office of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhon’s Projects

    – Central Watsan Co., Ltd.

    – Thai Union Group PCL.

    – Nawarat Patanakarn PCL.

    Individual 21 people included:

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jitraporn SudhivorasethMr. Chuenjit Potisupsuk
    Emeritus Professor Dr. Chutima SacchanandMr. Thanapon Hunsakun
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tharinee PongsupattEmeritus Professor Dr. Thirapat Serirangsan
    Dr. Bordin SapsomboonAssoc. Prof. Dr. Preang Kitratporn
    Assoc. Prof. Pakamas PachonklaewEmeritus Professor Dr. Pongsak Angkasit
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mukda NuysriAssoc. Prof. Ratawit Jewsawusde
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sarisak SoontornchaiEmeritus Professor Dr. Siriwan Sripahol
    Emeritus Professor Dr. Sujit BunbongkarnEmeritus Professor Dr. Sumalee Sungsri
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutithep SiripipattanakulMr. Adisak Tantiwong
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anuvat JangchudMr. Auttapol Rerkpiboon
    Prof. Dr. Arunya Tuicomepee

    Furthermore, on the same day, STOU organized the Award Ceremony for Outstanding Students and Graduates 2024 at Chalermprakiat Building. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the ceremony and presented the plaque. The ceremony celebrated and recognized the outstanding achievements of individuals who have made significant national or international contributions. This year ceremony honored a total of 58 alumni, graduates, and students, including;

    • 22 recipients for Career Success
    • 11 recipients for Outstanding Achievements, and
    • 26 recipients for Social and Institutional Contributions

  • The Certificate of Achievement Presentation Ceremony

    On 30 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized the Certificate of Achievement Presentation Ceremony for over 6,000 awardees in academic year 2023. In this occasion, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda,
    Acting President of STOU, was the president of the ceremony among the STOU administrators, faculty members and honorable guests

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, The Acting President of STOU delivered the congratulatory message to the students.

    The Certificate of Achievement Program is designed for those who want to develop knowledge and skills in academic and professional management across various fields. The project aims to enhance and improve quality of life, as well as increase the professional academic status of students.

    Congratulations to all 6,394 students on your achievement!

  • STOU signed MOU with Big C

    On 25 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), through its Master of Business Administration program at the School of Management Science, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Big C Supercenter Public Company Limited (Big C) to enhance educational quality and develop capable personnel to meet the demands of the business sector and national development. The signing ceremony took place at the Big C House building, with senior executives from both organizations present.

    The MOU was signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, and witnessed by
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittipong Keatwatcharachai, Acting Vice-President for Financial Affairs and University Assets and
    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jirawat Metasuttirat, Dean of the School of Management Science.

    The Big C delegation consisted of  Mr. Aswin Techajareonvikul, Chief Executive Officer and President,
    Mrs. Vipada Duangratana, First Vice Chairman of Executive Committee and Mrs. Hemmawan Poonphol, Chief of Staff and Strategy.

    The objective of this collaboration is to develop the knowledge and potential of students in the Master of Business Administration program (Business and Service Management). This will be achieved by integrating academic knowledge from the educational institution with real-world experience from a leading business sector, equipping students with the skills necessary for employment and to grow into quality professionals in the business and service management fields.

    Furthermore, this partnership lays a strong foundation for the joint development of curricula and academic activities,
    as well as the enhancement of professional skills and experiences for students. This will foster the creation of new knowledge and innovations that will benefit society, the economy, and the nation in the future.

  • Academic Forum on Digital University: Political Science and the Changing Classroom

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) hosted an academic forum titled “Digital University: Political Science and the Changing Classroom,” organized by the School of Political Science. The forum aimed to reflect on
    how political science education has adapted to the digital age, where technology plays a crucial role in education.

    The event was held to coincide with STOU’s 47th anniversary on 5 September 2025. It provided a platform for both senior and junior faculty members to exchange perspectives and experiences. The discussion covered the impact of technology on political science education, which is no longer confined to traditional classrooms but has expanded into a borderless virtual learning space.

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Somprin Niyomthai, Dean of School of Political Science, presided over the opening. In his address,
    he emphasized the importance of the forum, stating, “Today’s event is incredibly meaningful because we have invited both senior and junior faculty members to share their views. This will serve as a ‘bridge’ between accumulated wisdom and experience and the creative energy and innovation of modern learning.”

    The forum featured distinguished speakers, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jumpol Nimpanich, Asst. Prof. Dr. Thawee Surarittikul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuttaporn Issarachai, Mr. Witsathon Leesirakiadtikun, and Mr. Vasuchon Rakprachathai. The forum urged its participants and speakers to ask questions and provide suggestions, which will be valuable for the future development of political science teaching and learning.

  • Research Awards Ceremony 2025

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) organized the Research Awards Ceremony 2025,
    which was held by the Institute for Research and Development at Parichart Pavilion, In celebration of the 47th anniversary of STOU on 5 September 2025.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the ceremony. The Research Awards Ceremony is an annual event held to promote and foster a research atmosphere within the university. It also aims to encourage faculty and staff to produce high-quality research.

    This year’s awards recognize 14 research projects. The Excellent Research Awards 2025 were granted to 2 research projects, while The other 12 research projects were granted Good Research Awards 2025.

    Excellent Research Awards 2025 

    Category: Distance Education

    1. Title: Innovative Learning System Based on Gamification to Enhance Digital Creativity of Higher Education Students in Distance Learning System

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Phantipa Amornrit and team

    Category: Institutional Research

    2.Title: The Quality Comparison Study of 5 Choice and 4 Choice Tests

    Researcher: Dr. Sarhistthep Sukkaew and team

    Good Research Awards 2025

    Category: Academic, Social and National Development and Distance Education

    1. Title: The Development Program of Digital Literacy and Psychological Well-Being for Early Adolescent

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Pisutthipa Metheekul

    2. Title: The computational study in the flow past a rotating isolated cylinder at high Reynolds number

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sitthichai Ruchayosyothin

    3. Title: Developing 3D models of fossils found in Thailand using photogrammetry

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Suchart Saenpich and team

    4. Title: Food Delivery Business on Digital Platforms and Public Interest and Consumer Protection in Thailand

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Keovalin Torpanyacharn and team

    5. Title: Enhancement of Legal Measures for Support the Utilization and Strengthening of the Research and Innovation Ecosystem of Educational Institutions

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Walaiwan Mathurotpreechakun and team

    6. Title: A Development of Ubiquitous Learning Model to Enhance Creativity and Innovation Skills by Using Wisdom Knowledge Base for Local Innovators

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanathnuth Chatpakkarattana and team

    7. Title: Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University’s English Proficiency Test

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sukolrat Ingchatcharoen

    8. Title: Collaborative Governance for Promoting Decentralization in Conflict Solution and Interests Use of National Park Area for Community-Based Ecotourism Management: Case Study of Chiang Mai Province

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr. Noppon Akahat

    9. Title: Development of Competency Based Learning Model for Distance Education in Post Covid-19 Era: A Case Study of Sustainable Manufacturing System and Circular Economy

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supawadee Theerathammakorn and team

    10. Title: Development  Guideline International Agricultural Extension and Development Program through Distance Learning

    Researcher: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalermsak Toomhirun and team

    11. Title: Development of Measurement Model of Undergraduate Students’ Readiness for Online Testing in Open System Distance Higher Education Institutions

    Researcher: Asst. Prof. Dr.Thanyasinee Laosum  

    Category: Institutional Research

    12. Title: Information System on Research Output and Innovation of Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University

    Researcher: Mr. Suradet Athikom

  • STOU Green Day 2025

    On 26 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) held an event to celebrate its 47th anniversary, which fell on 5 September 2025. The STOU Department of International Affairs collaborated with both internal and external organizations—including Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Thailand Environment Institute Foundation (TEI), Office of Continuing Education, Office of Documentation and Information, Office of the University Press, Institute for Research and Development, Buildings and Grounds Division and  Department of Rajamangalaphisek Education Park. STOU Green Day 2025 was held at Parichart Pavilion.          

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU, presided over the event, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Arts and Culture Preservation, and International Affairs, delivered the report. This event welcomed a number of participants, including STOU executives and staff, teachers and students from nearby elementary schools, and the general public, who joined activities
    to promote environmental awareness.

    STOU has a policy of becoming a sustainable university through various initiatives, such as reducing electricity consumption, improving waste management, conducting research on sustainability, and participating in the UI GreenMetric World University rankings to become a more environmentally conscious institution.

    The “STOU Green Day 2025” event aimed to help staff and the public gain knowledge and understanding of how to use resources efficiently and apply the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—in their daily lives and work. The event featured many interesting activities, including a panel discussion titled “STOU’s Journey Towards a Green University: Lessons and Inspiration from Network Partners.” There were also numerous activity booths and the Research Awards Ceremony 2025 organized by the Institute for Research and Development.

  • The 2nd Workshop on Designing with Waste for Environmental Value

    On 19 August 2025, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) by The Office of Documentation and Information, organized The 2nd Workshop on “Designing with Waste for Environmental Value.” This academic outreach project was held at the STOU Library and Learning Center. The event aimed to promote sustainable practices and foster a deeper understanding of eco-design and upcycling.

    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Chanyawudhiwan, Acting Vice-President for Academic Services, Cultural Preservation, and International Affairs, presided over the opening ceremony. The event also featured insights from Mr. Teerachai Suppameteekulwat,
    the designer and CEO of Qualy, along with administrators from Thai Packaging Industry PCL and STOU librarians, who shared their expertise and experiences. Asst. Prof. Krittika Jiwaluk, Director of the Office of Documentation
    and Information, delivered the welcoming speech.

    Participants were given a tour of the STOU Library and Learning Center, exploring its various service areas. The project welcomed over 75 attendees from government agencies, the private sector, and the general public. The core objective of this initiative was to enhance knowledge, understanding, and skills in Eco Design and Upcycling. By applying the 4R
    principles – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repair – the project aimed to:

    • Minimize waste generation
    • Create added-value products from discarded materials
    • Promote efficient resource utilization, and
    • Reduce environmental impact

    Furthermore, the project provided local communities and entrepreneurs with creative waste management strategies, offering opportunities for income generation and sustainable economic development in their areas.

    This initiative reinforces STOU’s commitment to being a learning center focused on sustainable development across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The project not only raises awareness about waste and leftover materials in Nonthaburi Province but also serves as a model for collaboration between the university, government agencies, the private sector, and the public. This collaborative effort is crucial in driving Thai society towards true balance and sustainability.