On February 13, 2025, Prof. Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, presided over the launch of the university’s eco-friendly internal transportation system, which includes 9 electric buses, 8 electric cars, 30 electric motorcycles, and 1 electric tram. The initiative aims to support various university operations while encouraging students and staff to adopt environmentally friendly transportation, advancing Walailak University toward becoming a full-fledged Green University. The event was attended by university executives, faculty members, and students at Lan Phlenta, in front of the Thaiburi Building.

These electric vehicles were purchased to facilitate campus mobility while producing zero air pollution, aligning with the university’s Green University policy. Currently, Walailak University is ranked joint 81st globally, 6th in Thailand, and has held the title of Top Green University in Southern Thailand for five consecutive years, according to the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2024.

Specifically, in terms of sustainable transportation management, the university was ranked 20th globally and 2nd in Thailand, reflecting outstanding performance in reducing greenhouse gas emissions within campus transportation.

Prof. Dr. Sombat emphasized that Walailak University is the largest university in Thailand, spanning over 9,594 rai. Efficient internal transportation is therefore crucial for the Green University policy. The university promotes the use of electric motorcycles to reduce air pollution and provides electric buses capable of transporting over 20 students per trip, significantly reducing private vehicle use and contributing to lower emissions.

This forms part of Walailak University’s initiative to measure and set targets for more sustainable commuting, in support of the SDGs, particularly SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.