Walailak University: The Free Public Access to Open Spaces and Green Spaces
Walailak University is committed to its vision of becoming a sustainable and eco-friendly residential institution. Consequently, the continual enhancement and transformation of the university’s surroundings, both within and outside its premises, into versatile and environmentally conscious spaces are a top priority. Alongside these efforts, the university aims to impart knowledge and promote practices related to energy conservation, recycling, and water treatment.
In pursuit of these objectives, the university has decided to construct a sprawling public park spanning 100.79 acres and to undertake renovations within the botanic park. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring that both WU people and local residents have access to welcoming, cost-free spaces for relaxation, physical activity, and study, which can be utilized at their convenience without any fees.
In the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking 2022, Walailak University has consistently ranked as the 1st place of green university in the southern region for three consecutive years, and it has risen to the seventh position in the country and the 111th position globally with a total score of 8,125 points. Compared to the previous year, in 2021, it was ranked 8th in the country and 116th in the world with a total score of 7,700 points. It received increased scores in all six categories, including infrastructure; energy and climate change; waste; water; transportation; education, and research.
In the category of Setting and infrastructure, Walailak University received the highest score in the country for the second consecutive year among the universities in the country participating in the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking, totaling 47 universities.
Walailak Park
Constructed during the years 2017-2018, Walailak Park stands as the most extensive university park in Thailand, spanning a vast 100.79 acres. Positioned near the university’s main entrance, this park is intentionally designed to offer effortless accessibility to all, as no admission fee is imposed. Within its expanse, you can find cycling lanes and jogging paths, spacious areas for activities like yoga, and benches thoughtfully placed for individuals to sit, unwind, and relish the beauty of sunrise and sunset.
Distinguished by a rich variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife, Walailak Park is renowned for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal haven for relaxation and fostering connections among people.
Walailak Botanic Park
Situated within the Walailak Conservation Area, Walailak Botanic Park is another significant natural space within Walailak University, covering an extensive area of 533.60 acres. Beyond its diverse collection of plants and its role as a botanical site, the park offers a place for residents and students to unwind, engage in physical activities, and even partake in camping within its premises.
Adorning the front gate and situated by a reservoir, there is a specially designed tunnel following the concept of ‘Embrace the Warmth of Sunrise, Bid Farewell to the Gentle Sunset.’ Additionally, a weekly event known as the Bota Market Chic & Chill takes place in a square adjacent to the front gate every Thursday. This market serves as an area for relaxation, social interaction, consumer goods purchase. Additionally, it aims to simulate the economy and address economic issues, supporting SME’ and low-income individuals through the BOTA MARKET CHIC & CHILL. It targets customers, including students, staff, and the general public. Walailak University Botanic Park hopes to maximize the use of the space for the greatest benefit. Moreover, the market operates under the theme of ‘The Green Market for Communities,’ promoting local goods while also providing space for activities and showcasing talents.
Currently, the area has been continuously developed to enhance the uniqueness of the Walailak Botanic Park. It consists mainly of the following areas:
Bota Sky Tower
This new landmark of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province allows you to experience the natural beauty while walking on the skywalk above the treetops, which is as high as an 8 floor-building. To the east, you can see the entire campus of Walailak University and the surrounding area of the botanic park. To the west, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Mountain range, which stretches gracefully amidst nature and the clear skies.
The Herb Garden
The herb garden is an area dedicated to the collection and cultivation of medicinal herbs based on the fundamental principles of public health and for educational purposes. It primarily serves the Faculty of Pharmacy and the Faculty of Medicine. This initiative operates under the supervision of the Botanic Park and involves continuous sourcing, planting, and maintaining a systematic collection of medicinal herbs.
The Bota Cactus Dome
The Bota Cactus Dome is a facility for collecting, displaying, and studying various plant species, including members of the plant family Cactaceae, drought-resistant plants, and succulent plants. It serves as an educational resource for students, scholars, and the public interested in learning about the plant species native to the southern region of Thailand.
The Tent Area
The tent area at the Botanic Park is open for visitors. It serves as a relaxing and recreational destination for people to study and learn amidst the natural surroundings of the riverside forest, offering a romantic and picturesque atmosphere. This spot provides services for tourists who wish to camp, stay overnight, enjoy the natural environment, kayaking, witness the sunset, and admire the beautiful mist on the water’s surface within the Bota in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.
Goal 11 : Sustainable cities and communities
Goal 4: Quality education
Goal 15: Life on land
Goal 17: Partnership for the goals