Chula Hosts 2/2026 Traveling Research & Innovation Meeting to Guide National Development 

The Office of Research Affairs at Chulalongkorn University recently organized the 2/2026 Traveling Research and Innovation Committee Meeting on April 21, 2026, at Chula Narumit House. The event aimed to provide a platform for university executives from across the country to exchange perspectives and jointly determine the direction for developing Thailand’s research and innovation system. 

The opening ceremony was presided over by Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Prof. Dr. Buncha Pulpoka, Assistant to the President for Research Development. Subsequently, Prof. Dr. Samruk Chandramporn, Chair of the Research and Innovation Committee, officially opened the meeting. The program included a special lecture titled “Ecosystem for Innovation to Commercialization” and an “Innovation Reflection” session, where participants discussed challenges in translating research into commercial applications.

Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat stated that higher education institutions play a crucial role in driving science, research, and innovation, as universities are well-equipped with both personnel and students—key forces in this mission. Especially in the era of AI, there must be a focus on developing individuals to become “creators” of innovation rather than merely “users” of foreign technology. He emphasized that universities now have a much broader role, including addressing societal challenges in all dimensions and fostering an ecosystem that transforms every part of the country into a learning space. He also highlighted the importance of communicating research outcomes to the public to demonstrate that Thai scholars are capable not only of theoretical work but also of producing practical innovations that meaningfully improve people’s quality of life.

Prof. Dr. Buncha Pulpoka explained that the meeting was intended as a space for exchanging ideas and gathering input on key issues in research and innovation, particularly during a time of policy changes from the government and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation. Effective communication among researchers is therefore essential. He expressed hope that the research developed by faculty members would meet national needs and serve as a vital mechanism in addressing economic challenges. 

Prof. Dr. Samruk Chandramporn noted that the research network has expanded significantly across both scientific and social science fields. The committee has compiled feedback and recommendations from research administrators and plans to present them to the minister soon. He reaffirmed that they are practitioners ready to implement policies and drive tangible outcomes in the research sector. 

In the afternoon, a workshop on healthy food design was held at The Food School @ Dusit Central Park and Block 28. Activities included hands-on sessions in designing healthy food and a presentation of the “Chula GIN-D” healthy food innovation model. The initiative aims to strengthen a wellness-oriented economic district and promote sustainable living in Thai society, reflecting the university’s role in advancing food innovation toward real-world application.