Promoting Learning for Society: Public Lectures and Activities at Walailak University
Walailak University emphasizes the promotion of lifelong learning under its vision of “To be an institution of good governance, a source of knowledge for critical problems facing the nation, to unfailingly address community needs, and to strive for international recognition for excellence.” One of its core missions is to provide academic services to society. Therefore, the university places great importance on hosting all free educational events both ad-hoc and program at university that are open to the general public to participate in various educational lectures and activities. These events aim to develop skills and knowledge across various fields, including education, technology, innovation, economics, agriculture, natural resources, and research.
Ad-Hoc Events
These free ad-hoc educational events not only enhance knowledge but also address the rapidly changing needs of society, enabling participants to adapt and develop their potential to meet the demands of today’s world. The events are held as part of the Regional Research Expo 2023, providing opportunities for personnel from educational institutions, research agencies from both the public and private sectors, students, youth, and the general public to register and participate in the educational events at the university for free, according to their interests, as outlined in the event schedule.
Figure : Regional Research Expo 2023
Figures : The Free Public Edicational Events at University.
Education and Local Development
The event features a wide range of activities aimed at supporting education and local development. For instance, the U-School Mentoring Project provides support to local schools through the university’s resources and expertise. Additionally, there are discussions on Area-Based Research Management, focusing on sustainable local development.
A special lecture titled “Southeast Asian Cultural Heritage Studies and Regional Development in the Digital Era“ is delivered by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation at the main auditorium of the Thaiburi Building. Moreover, there is a session on Political Science and Public Administration: Challenges for a Sustainable Society, addressing the critical challenges of society in the pursuit of sustainability.
Technology and Innovation
In the realm of technology and innovation, where technology plays a crucial role in transforming our way of life, this free educational event organized activities related to technology and innovation. These activities included lectures on topics such as “AI in the Future World“ and “The New Era of Technology and Innovation for Laboratory, Life Sciences, and Future Chemical Analysis.“ These events provided participants with the opportunity to learn about trends and advancements in the digital world. Additionally, there was a discussion on microwave technology to enhance the value of agricultural products, showcasing the application of technology to improve productivity and sustainability in the agricultural sector. The event also featured a lecture on “SRSA Framework in Metaverse, Robot, and AI” by the chairman of Asa Productions Co., Ltd.
Economic and Business
At the free educational event organized by the university, various discussions and lectures were held on topics related to the economy and business to promote understanding of sustainable economics. Examples include a symposium on the Thai swiftlet bird’s nest business with international competition, and a discussion on the process of applying for Halal certification. Additionally, there were activities on “The High-Value Economic and Business Development Aspects of Sustainability in the Southern of Thailand,” as well as topics such as the ARSA Framework for promoting startup businesses in the BCG economy era. The event also featured a business innovation concept competition for regional development in the Southern region by high school students. These activities provided entrepreneurs and the general public with insights into conducting business in line with sustainable economic principles and regional business growth.
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Strengthening food security and conserving natural resources are key goals of the university. Examples of activities include a discussion on “Native Chickens” which hold nutritional and economic value at the grassroots level, as well as commercial herb cultivation and beef cattle reproductive system management. Additionally, there were talks on managing blue crab banks to restore marine natural resources in Thai seas, and a discussion on the emerging valuable wood industry from community plantations for sustainability. These activities not only promote development in the agricultural sector but also raise awareness of the importance of sustainable natural resource conservation.
Research and Development
The university also focuses on advancing research to meet societal needs in various areas. Examples include discussions on the utilization of biomass from the palm oil industry and research symposiums in the southern region that support the creation of regional research networks. Another significant topic is research ethics involving human subjects (Human Ethics). These research initiatives emphasize the sustainable development of local resources and economies.
Additionally, there was an exhibition under the theme “Innovative Research for Sustainable Quality of Life: The Southern Model” featuring 109 booths, along with research presentations at the lecture building. The presentations covered various topics, including modern agriculture and food, energy and materials, tourism, service, and social development, as well as medical and health sectors.
The organization of the 2023 Regional Research Expo was met with significant interest from personnel from educational institutions, research agencies, both public and private sectors, students, youths, and the general public. The event saw a remarkable turnout, with over 3,212 people registering to participate.
Programs
Walailak University not only hosts major annual educational events but also organizes other normal various event under the program of WU Botanic Park (WBP) throughout the year, providing opportunities for students and the general public to engage in diverse educational event, especially within WBP. These activities aim to promote learning in various fields such as science, English, and agriculture. Examples of these activities include:
Figures : Science and Learning Resource Exploration Camps: Camps that focus on studying natural learning resources in WBP.
Figures : Astronomy Camps: Studying and exploring stars and the universe through theoretical and practical learning.
Figures : Science Day Camp for Grade 4: Activities designed for fourth-grade students to learn and explore the world of science.
Figures : Junior Agricultural Project Activities: Promoting agricultural knowledge and skills for youth.
These activities reflect Walailak University’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for the public.
In summary, Walailak University has consistently hosted free educational events and lectures that are open to the general public and have received overwhelming interest, with over 3,212 people registering to participate. These initiatives promote lifelong learning across various fields, including education, technology, innovation, economics, agriculture, and research. These activities not only help participants develop their knowledge and skills but also enhance their capacity to effectively cope with societal changes.
