Chula’s Rugose Frog Farming Initiative Helps Nan Farmers Build Sustainable Incomes

The success of the “Rugose Frog Farming Project” under the ongoing efforts of the Center of Learning Network for the Region of Chulalongkorn University has gone beyond just promoting careers and generating income for farmers. A particularly proud achievement has emerged in Sa Nian Subdistrict, Nan Province, where frogs raised through the project have grown rapidly and reached substantial sizes. After only 3–4 months of farming, some frogs reached weights of up to 800 grams (1.76 pounds) – the largest and most robust ever recorded in the area. This result has greatly boosted the pride of residents and farmers in Nan Province. 

Local Farmer Shares Her Success Story 

Ms. Sujitra Sutham, owner of a frog farm in the Sa Nian Subdistrict Administrative Organization, who joined the project, shared her amazement and satisfaction with the results. Although she had previous experience raising frogs, they typically only grew to 500–600 grams at most. She had never seen frogs reach 800 grams before. After attending a frog farming training session organized by the Center in June 2025, she received young frogs to raise using the newly learned techniques. In just 3–4 months, her frogs grew so large and healthy that she hesitated to sell them, as she had never seen such rapid and healthy growth before. Compared to frogs raised by other farmers who received their frogs at the same time, hers were noticeably larger. 

Integrating Academic Knowledge with Local Wisdom 

The Center of Learning Network for the Region of Chulalongkorn University plays a vital role in providing academic services to society, with a focus on spreading knowledge and developing the capabilities of people in remote areas. It aims to improve quality of life and promote sustainability within communities. The frog farming promotion project is one of the Center’s ongoing activities designed to meet the needs of farmers in Nan Province. 

Hands-On Learning for Real Results 

This project goes beyond theoretical training. It involves hands-on workshops, giving participants real experience and continuous support. This effective learning approach fosters a deeper and more practical understanding. The center integrates scientific knowledge from Chulalongkorn University with local wisdom, creating a learning model that is appropriate and directly applicable to the area’s context. 

The goal of the frog farming project is to make knowledge and skills accessible to farmers and the general public, enabling them to farm rugose frogs effectively. The main objectives are to equip participants with a basic understanding and practical skills in frog farming so they can apply this knowledge to build sustainable livelihoods. The project also focuses on career development and income generation for farmers in Nan by teaching aquaculture techniques, farm management, and proper feeding methods. These practices aim to improve frog survival rates and boost product quality. 

The program content covers both theory and practice. It begins with lectures on frog reproduction and breeding – essential knowledge for frog farming – and includes motivational videos showcasing success stories. The most important component is the hands-on breeding practice and monitoring of tadpole growth, allowing participants to learn by doing under the guidance of experts. After the training, the Center provides participants with young frogs to raise, followed by ongoing monitoring and advisory support, ensuring that farmers can apply the knowledge effectively and achieve success. 

Knowledge Transfer that Delivers Real Impact 

The success of raising 800-gram frogs is not a coincidence. It is the result of accurate and appropriate knowledge transfer by the Center of Learning Network for the Region, which emphasizes practical, results-driven learning. The learning has instilled confidence and motivation in farmers to pursue frog farming seriously. 

Moreover, the project supports Chulalongkorn University’s sustainable development strategy, which focuses on using knowledge to benefit society and communities. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 – No Poverty and SDG 15 – Life on Land. Frog farming helps generate income for farmers, reduce poverty, and improve family quality of life. It also promotes sustainable use of local natural resources without harming the environment. 

A Model for Community-Based Sustainable Development 

The project’s outcomes go beyond just providing income and stable careers for farming households. It also stands as a clear example of how scientific knowledge can be integrated with local wisdom to drive grassroots economic development and community sustainability. High-quality rugose frogs present new market opportunities for farmers, as these frogs are in demand both domestically and internationally. Larger, healthier frogs can fetch better prices, creating stable income and economic resilience for local farmers. 

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