SIFE MasterClass by Chula Business Students: Empowering Youth for Sustainable Communities 

The “SIFE MasterClass,” or SMC is a remarkable project initiated by students from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy. Its purpose is to drive community development through the application of proper business knowledge. For over 20 years, students have carried out this project, which now plays a role in fostering sustainability and sharing knowledge to support community development across Thailand. 

Assistant Professor Dr. Sawitree Boonpatcharanon, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and a lecturer in the Department of Statistics at the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, explained that the “SIFE MasterClass” project started from a group of SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) members who recognized that business knowledge could effectively contribute to community development. Each year, the project organizes at least three community development initiatives, with each lasting two to four years to address the communities’ challenges. Although the project has reached various provinces, the number of supported communities remains limited compared to the actual need. This led to the idea of expanding opportunities to help communities in all provinces across Thailand. 

Expanding “SIFE MasterClass” from Communities to Youth Nationwide 

Dr. Sawitree noted that “SIFE MasterClass” has expanded its target from adult communities to younger audiences, including elementary and high school students, especially in rural areas where many children face educational limitations due to family responsibilities. Teaching business knowledge not only builds a stable future but also helps them avoid potential debt from poor business practices. 

The project initially offered trial courses during the Faculty’s Open House last year, receiving positive feedback from students and parents. It recently expanded to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, offering four training sessions for elementary and high school students from various provinces. Each group received age-appropriate, well-designed training content. 

Youth Learn Marketing and Hands-On Practice 

Dr. Sawitree revealed that “SIFE MasterClass” activities not only transfer knowledge but also offer hands-on workshops for students. The focus is on marketing, as it is relatable and easy to understand, teaching students about Social Enterprise to understand that business is not solely about profit but should also positively impact society. 

After learning the basics, students participate in business planning workshops using real community case studies, such as agricultural and tourism development in Nan province. This approach allows students to apply their knowledge in creating their own business plans, practicing problem-solving, and enhancing teamwork skills. 

Sustainable outcomes are achieved when the shared knowledge returns to the community, enabling children to further develop their communities. One success story, the “Win Win War” project, taught students to create real products, such as handmade soap for school sales. This initiative fosters community economic growth by embedding sustainable principles in youth from an early age. 

Success and Future Plans 

The project has received enthusiastic responses from students and participating communities, with more youth interested in joining each year. This year, it expanded to over 38 provinces, attracting 351 students from 126 schools.  Many children have shown interest in pursuing further studies in business after participating in the program, as they see that this knowledge can be applied in real life. 

“This project is not just a learning opportunity but also a chance to build a future for communities and youth nationwide,” said Dr. Sawitree. 

The “SIFE MasterClass” will continue growing, with future plans to offer online access for students in remote areas, allowing even those unable to travel to participate. 

Apart from SMC, Chulalongkorn University’s “SIFE” also runs other projects across the country, such as an eco-tourism development project in Samut Songkhram and a chili paste product development project in Kamphaeng Phet, each aimed at the long-term sustainability of the community.  Additionally, “SIFE” organizes a Social Case Competition for Chulalongkorn students to solve real community problems to enhance their analytical and teamwork skills. 

For those interested in joining the project, updates on “SIFE” and its various projects can be followed on: 
Facebook: Chula SIFE — https://www.facebook.com/ChulaSIFE 
Instagram: @chula_sife — https://www.instagram.com/chula_sife/ 

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