Chula Brings the Media to Nan to Spotlight Research and Community Development 

Chulalongkorn University’s Communication Center organized the project “Chula Takes the News Media to a Trip in Nan Province” from July 15–17, 2025, at the Chula Regional Learning Network Center, Research and Technology Transfer Station in Phasing Subdistrict (Mueang District) and Lainan Subdistrict (Wiang Sa District) in Nan Province. The event was led by Chula executives, including: 

• Prof. Dr. Parichart Sthapitanonda, Vice President, Chulalongkorn University 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun, Chief Brand Officer 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President, Chulalongkorn University 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanasin Chutintaranond, Assistant to the President for Social Engagement 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Vitchatalum Laovanich, Assistant to the President for Arts and Culture Promotion 

They welcomed and accompanied 32 members of the media to visit various Chula research initiatives in Nan Province. The goal was to enhance understanding of Chulalongkorn University’s role as a leading knowledge institution that actively transfers research and innovation for the benefit of society and local communities. 

Over the course of the three-day project, the media had the opportunity to explore community-oriented research and academic service activities conducted by Chula through its learning center in Nan. On the first day, they visited the Lainan Subdistrict Research and Technology Transfer Station, where: 

• Asst. Prof. Dr. Noppadon Kitana, Director of the Chula Regional Learning Network Center, gave a presentation on the center’s mission and activities. 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Winai Kaewlamun, Deputy Dean for Research and Academic Services at the School of Agricultural Resources, discussed Chula’s agricultural research. 

The media then toured: 

• Local native red cattle and water buffalo from the Nan River basin 
• Dipterocarp seedling propagation 
• Earthworm and frog farming 
• A model pig farm school 
• A pig artificial insemination exhibition 

Additionally, the media participated in the “Nan Headwater Forest Restoration Planting Activity,” aligned with His Majesty the King’s initiative. Chula’s center collaborated with the local Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO), community leaders, and students in Mueang Chang Subdistrict, Phu Phiang District, to plant 1,200 trees. 

Mr. Phon Phatphon, President of the Mueang Chang SAO, presided over the event. The reforestation used Dipterocarp seedlings inoculated with ectomycorrhizal fungi, a type of symbiotic fungus that enhances tree growth, alongside soil improvement techniques using microorganisms and mycorrhizae to boost soil fertility. 

Afterward, the group visited Ban Sop Nong School Learning Center, a collaborative project between Chula and the Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation of the Thai Red Cross. There, they took part in an activity donating backpacks and school uniforms to the students. The day ended with visits to Wat Nong Bua Temple and the Tai Lue Cultural Community Market activity.

On the third day, the media visited the Phasing Research and Technology Transfer Station, part of Chula’s learning and academic service network. There, Asst. Prof. Dr. Noppadon Kitana led a tour of the “Chula Improves Lives and the Environment for a Sustainable Nan” exhibition. They also visited the Nan Natural History Museum and learned about the processing of goat milk into products under the “Khiang Din” (Close to Earth) brand. 

Chula’s regional research and academic service efforts are part of its CU Social Engagement mission, which aims to improve local quality of life through applied knowledge, research, and innovation in science, technology, and agriculture, emphasizing food security, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. 

The “Chula Takes the News Media to a Trip in Nan” project helps raise public awareness of Chula’s regional roles and missions, particularly in Nan Province, highlighting its commitment to community development and social contribution by integrating academic knowledge with hands-on community engagement. 

The Chula Regional Learning Network Center serves as a knowledge hub that embodies the university’s vision and mission, actively linking research to local development in fields such as agriculture, natural resource conservation, and social assistance. 

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