Walailak University’s Commitment to Non-discrimination Against Women
Walailak University (WU) is deeply committed to upholding equality and non-discrimination as fundamental principles that guide every aspect of university life. WU strives to cultivate an inclusive environment where individuals of all genders are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. Through its policies, the university reaffirms its dedication to fostering diversity and ensuring that everyone can thrive, free from bias, marginalization, or exclusion.
Figure: The WU’s policy on Gender Equality issued in 2024
In 2024, Walailak University revised its policy on gender equality to be more inclusive in destroying discrimination against women. In the policy, Walailak University shall:
- Ensure equal access to education, employment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth for women and transgender individuals.
- Promote a campus culture of respect, understanding, and acceptance by providing training and awareness programs that challenge gender stereotypes and bias.
- Protect individuals from harassment, bullying, or any form of discrimination based on gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation.
- Implement and enforce policies that recognize the unique needs and rights of women and transgender individuals, ensuring they are free from any form of prejudice or exclusion.
- Collaborate with NGOs, government organizations, private sectors, and communities to support initiatives that promote gender equality and the rights of transgender individuals, both on and off campus.
Walailak University operates its campus with a strong commitment to gender equality, ensuring that all individuals, including women, have equal opportunities and representation. Since its founding, women have constituted the majority of the university community, playing a vital role in shaping its success. Female students have contributed significantly to academic excellence, while female staff have been instrumental in driving scholarly achievements and institutional growth.
To reinforce its dedication to equality, Walailak University has implemented diagnostic analyses and a range of initiatives by engaging with various groups that support and empower women in both academic and professional spheres.
These efforts include scholarship programs to enhance educational accessibility, leadership training to cultivate future women leaders, and policies that safeguard against discrimination and harassment. The university continuously fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is valued, ensuring that all members of its community can thrive. Through ongoing advocacy, research collaborations, and strategic programs, Walailak University remains at the forefront of gender equality promotion in education and the workplace.
Fair Employment Practices
Walailak University upholds a firm commitment to equal opportunity in its staff recruitment process, ensuring that women face no discrimination in hiring. Female candidates have the same opportunities as male candidates to apply for positions and advance their careers within the university.
In 2024, Walailak University employed a total of 3,822 staff members, representing a 38% increase compared to 2023. This growth was driven by the establishment of new departments within the university.
It comprised both academic and administrative personnel. Of this number, 1,237 were male (32.37%) and 2,585 were female (67.63%). These figures reflect the university’s commitment to gender equality and non-discriminatory recruitment practices, which help enhance employment opportunities for women who may otherwise face gender-based disadvantages in the labor market.
Additionally, female staff have full and equal access to university facilities, including health services, mentoring programs, financial support such as loans, and accommodation. Women are also empowered to take on leadership roles, contributing to academic administration and other areas where their skills and expertise drive institutional success.
Comparative Analysis of Female and Male Graduates in STEM, Arts, and Health Sciences 2024
In 2024, Walailak University monitored the number of graduates across three academic fields: STEM, Health Sciences, and Arts/Humanities/Science. The findings revealed that Health Sciences had the highest number of graduates. Across all fields, female graduates outnumbered male graduates. In STEM, there were 613 graduates in total, with females exceeding males by 6.97%. In Health Sciences, out of 927 graduates, the number of females surpassed males by 67.21%. In Arts/Humanities/Science, there were 483 graduates, with females outnumbering males by 64.80%.
Although the number of female students admitted to Walailak University varies each year, the university remains committed to increasing female enrollment and supporting their academic success through initiatives such as outreach programs and financial assistance.
Safe Environment with Supportive Facilities for Female Students
Walailak University is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and empowering educational environment where female students can pursue their academic and professional aspirations without discrimination. Recognizing the importance of support systems in ensuring student success, the university has established multiple centers and initiatives dedicated to enhancing the experiences of female students both on and off campus.
One of the key support structures is the Smile and Smart Center, which offers mentoring programs tailored to help female students navigate university life with confidence. Through personalized guidance and structured mentorship, students gain access to valuable resources, emotional support, and academic encouragement, ensuring their success in higher education.
Additionally, the plays a crucial role in advocating for and researching issues related to women’s empowerment. This center conducts studies aimed at promoting gender equality in education, employment, and social security. The insights gathered from this research contribute to policies and initiatives designed to enhance the welfare and opportunities available to female students and women in broader society.
To further support career readiness, the Center for Cooperative Education and Career Development provides strategic programs to equip female students with essential skills for professional growth. This includes workshops, internships, and career guidance, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.
Financial barriers should never prevent talented students from completing their education. To this end, Walailak University offers scholarships specifically for female students, enabling them to focus on their studies without financial worries. These scholarships ensure equitable access to higher education, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in academic pursuits and professional development.
Women’s Empowerment Competitions
WU Prom Queen Competition
Walailak University recognizes that creating platforms for women is an effective way to highlight their power, talents, and voices. Each year, through its various schools, WU organizes the Prom Queen Competition, offering female students the opportunity to showcase their abilities, share their perspectives, and express their individuality in front of the public. The competition is accessible to all female students, ensuring equal participation and representation.
Beyond being a traditional event, the Prom Queen Competition serves as a stage for empowering women by encouraging self-confidence, leadership, and public speaking skills. It allows participants to break stereotypes, gain recognition for their strengths, and inspire others within the university community. In doing so, WU not only celebrates women’s achievements but also fosters an environment where women are motivated to pursue leadership roles and actively contribute to society.
Miss Noppamas 2024
During the Loy Krathong Festival, Walailak University organized the Miss Noppamas 2024 contest to celebrate and honor the vibrant women’s community at WU. The event featured female contestants from among the university’s staff and students, who showcased their talents in various forms. A highlight of the competition was the speech contest segment, where contestants presented their visions and perspectives on societal progress and community development. Through their eloquence and creativity, the participants reflected the important role of women in driving positive change within both the university and the wider society, aligning with the values of gender equality and empowerment.
Promoting Female Student Leadership in Student Organizations
Walailak University actively encourages female students to take on leadership roles within student organizations, particularly in the Student Administrative Board and the Student Council. In 2024, 12 female students served as members of the Student Council, while 18 female students held positions in the Student Administrative Board. Their participation not only provides a platform for women to express their ideas and opinions but also fosters the development of leadership skills, decision-making capabilities, and confidence. By promoting women’s representation in these key student bodies, the university helps ensure diverse perspectives in governance and supports the principles of gender equality and empowerment.
Female students at Walailak University benefit from a comprehensive system of support that empowers them academically, professionally, and personally. They have equal access to education, leadership opportunities, and scholarships, along with protection against discrimination and harassment. Through specialized centers such as the Smile and Smart Center, the Center of Excellence on Women and Social Security, and the Center for Cooperative Education and Career Development, they receive mentorship, career preparation, and advocacy for their rights. Cultural and leadership initiatives, including the Miss Noppamas contest and representation in student organizations, further enhance their confidence, skills, and visibility. Together, these efforts create an inclusive and nurturing environment where female students can thrive, develop leadership qualities, and actively contribute to both the university and society.
Related links:
https://cas.wu.ac.th/en/archives/37172
https://cas.wu.ac.th/en/archives/37181
https://cas.wu.ac.th/en/archives/37076
https://cas.wu.ac.th/en/archives/37061
https://www.wu.ac.th/th/news/24171
https://www.wu.ac.th/index.php/th/news/25964
https://www.wu.ac.th/th/news/24839
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1MJcnPE4Kv/
Goal 5: Gender Equality
Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
Goal 4: Quality Education