Category: Sustainability and Stewardship

sustainablility and stewardship Most of the area where Walailak University (WU) is now located was once a vast, dense forest. Over time, much of this land was cleared and used for agricultural purposes. Before the university was established, the area had been utilized for various types of farming, including agriculture, aquaculture, and livestock activities such as dairy, Nile tilapia, goat, and pig farming, as well as mangosteen and rubber tree cultivation. Consequently, some parts of the land had already become brownfield sites due to possible contamination from chemical substances or fertilizers, while other areas were left abandoned.In later years, Walailak University developed several of its new buildings on these brownfield sites—both on land that had been previously contaminated and on areas affected by the university’s earlier activities. For example, the…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University (WU) has long prioritized sustainability and the application of high standards in its infrastructure development and energy management initiatives. A notable example is the Center for Library Resources and Educational Media, which was constructed in accordance with the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) Standard under His Majesty the King’s Patronage. This standard emphasizes precision, structural integrity, and meticulous implementation throughout the design and construction process. The building’s maintenance is also overseen by licensed architects and engineers from the Division of Landscaping and Building, ensuring continuous adherence to safety and quality standards. In addition to meeting EIT requirements, the center operates in full compliance with the Building Energy Code (BEC) — Thailand’s national standard for energy efficiency in buildings. The BEC certification, granted by the Department…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University places great importance on prioritizing pedestrian access for students, staff, and the general public within the campus. The university has implemented an infrastructure development project to construct pedestrian walkways covering all areas of the campus, aiming to enhance safety, convenience, and overall quality of life for students, personnel, and visitors. This project is part of the university’s Sustainable Campus Policy, which focuses on creating an environment conducive to learning and high-quality living. The construction of walkways spans key areas of the university, including routes connecting academic buildings, dormitories, libraries, cafeterias, and outdoor activity spaces, facilitating safe and convenient movement for students and staff. The design of the walkways also adheres to safety standards, accessibility principles for persons with disabilities (Universal Design), and the use of…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University (WU) is committed to supporting students’ well-being by ensuring access to affordable, high-quality housing on campus. Recognizing that off-campus rental costs in Tha Sala District have risen significantly due to urban expansion and increased migration, WU has consistently set dormitory fees lower than market prices. By doing so, the university helps reduce students’ financial burdens and creates an environment where they can focus on their academic and personal development. Click on the map for a clearer view with more details. Affordable Housing Management and Evaluation The Center of Property Management oversees all student dormitories and plays a central role in maintaining affordable pricing and quality facilities. To strengthen student participation, the center has established Student Dormitory Committees in every dormitory. These committees represent student voices by…

sustainablility and stewardship In 2024, Walailak University (WU) continued its commitment to supporting employee well-being by providing access to affordable housing throughout their working life. The university recognizes that safe, affordable, and convenient housing is essential for staff stability, work-life balance, and long-term institutional loyalty. Click on the map for a clearer view with more details.Housing for employees at WU is divided into two main types: apartments for single or married employees and family houses for staff who live with their spouses and children. All accommodations are located within the campus, ensuring proximity to workplaces, security, and a strong sense of community.The housing is arranged in two primary zones:Walainivas Zonesituated in the south of the campus. WU Hospital Housing Zone located in the east of the campus. Affordable Housing Evaluation The rising…

sustainablility and stewardship At Walailak University, the Policy on Remote Working has been in place as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and staff well-being. The policy aims to promote flexible work arrangements among university staff, enabling remote work where applicable. Consequently, the university promotes and allows telecommuting or remote working for employees in accordance with tis policy. The university also provides guidelines encouraging staff to work efficiently, thereby reducing commuting time to the workplace. By reducing unnecessary daily commuting, the university not only alleviates traffic congestion on campus but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with personal vehicle use. Online Meeting Internal MeetingsAs part of the policy, Walailak University actively encourages staff to organize internal meetings via online platforms, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, whenever…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University has implemented a range of initiatives to promote sustainable commuting on campus. These include the operation of electric shuttle buses to facilitate convenient and eco-friendly travel, the construction of covered walkways to encourage walking in all weather conditions, and the promotion of bicycles through designated bike lanes and cycling campaigns. In addition, the university supports the use of electric vehicles by both staff and students for commuting on and off campus, reducing reliance on fuel-powered transportation and lowering carbon emissions. Together, these initiatives contribute to a safer, greener, and more sustainable campus environment. Free Electric Shuttle Car Service Walailak University has implemented the WU Electric Shuttle Car Service, a pioneering green transportation initiative powered by both solar and electric energy. This service offers free, eco-friendly…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University prioritizes measuring and setting targets to drive sustainable commuting both off and on campus. In 2024, Walailak University issued a policy on public transportation and student vehicle usage. This policy was issued to promote the measures for sustainable commuting on campus, which aligns with the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023–2027). The policy focuses on promoting the use of electric vehicles and supporting public transportation systems with low carbon emissions for the students, staff, and the general public at Walailak University. Figures :  Policy on Public Transportation and Student Vehicle UsageWalailak University continues to maintain and expand its pedestrian pathways and covered walkways to encourage walking as a sustainable mode of transportation, thereby reducing the carbon footprint associated with personal vehicle use. This initiative…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University has been delivering various initiatives and projects to record and preserve intangible cultural heritage, including local folklore, traditions, language, and knowledge of all communities at local, regional, national, international, and displaced communities. Walailak University has various distinct organizations dedicated to conserving intangible cultural heritage through research, education, academic services, and cultural stewardship. The Center for Cultural and Sports Promotion The Center for Cultural and Sports Promotion is the main organization at Walailak University established for delivering projects to record and preserve all cultural heritage at all levels. Its main vision is to be a center for learning about arts and culture. Develop health and sports towards excellence at the national and international level. The Walailak Botanic Park The Walailak Botanic Park has two sub-organizations responsible…

sustainablility and stewardship Walailak University remains steadfast in its commitment to serving as a cultural beacon, actively engaging communities through the preservation and revitalization of cultural traditions, fine arts, and applied arts. Guided by its 20-year strategic plan (BE 2561–2580), the university prioritizes research excellence, academic service, and the safeguarding of cultural heritage as core pillars of national development. In 2024, Walailak University made significant strides by collaborating with diverse internal and external partners to launch more than 30 impactful programs. These initiatives, both ad hoc and ongoing, are designed to enrich local and national arts and cultural legacies. Anchored by four key objectives, these efforts reflect the university’s deep and enduring dedication to cultural preservation and its pivotal role in sustaining heritage for future generations. To guide its contributions…