“President’s Tea Room” Highlights Chula’s Vision and Expanding Role for Society  

Chulalongkorn University recently hosted the “President’s Tea Room,” where the University President met with members of the media on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Chula Narumit House. The event aimed to strengthen relationships with the media and express appreciation for their continued support in publicizing university news. 

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, delivered the opening remarks. Associate Professor Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun, Chief Brand Officer of Chulalongkorn University, presented key highlights of the university’s recent achievements. This was followed by the President’s talk on “Chula and Its Mission for Society” and “Chula for the Future,” moderated by Dr. Thiraput Pitichat, Assistant to the President. 

The atmosphere of the “President’s Tea Room” was cordial and warm. The President and other university executives engaged closely with the media, exchanging views and giving interviews. A large number of media representatives from various sectors attended the event. An exhibition titled “Chula’s Pride: Internationally Recognized Achievements and Social Innovations” showcased the university’s excellence at both national and international levels, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility in multiple dimensions. The event also featured a Thai classical music performance by “Phetra,” a student ensemble from the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy. 

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat outlined Chulalongkorn University’s strategic direction: “Holistic Growth with Students at the Center,” focusing on advancing education, research, and innovation to produce graduates who are knowledgeable, capable, and prepared to face global challenges. At the same time, the university emphasizes applying its knowledge to benefit society and the nation. 

He also introduced a new strategic direction as the university approaches its 109th anniversary: “Expansive Growth with People at the Center,” highlighting Chula’s social engagement mission (CU Social Engagement). The university is committed to serving as a learning hub for the public and to creating value for society. In line with this, three new academic units have been established: 

• The College of Extension and Lifelong Learning for the People, Chulalongkorn University (Chula XL) 
• The Faculty of Integrated Agriculture 
• The College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies 

Chula XL plays a key role in developing lifelong learning systems for people of all ages through flexible and accessible programs that respond to societal and labor market changes. It aims to build a learning ecosystem that enables individuals to acquire new skills through short courses, training programs, and a credit bank system that supports future educational advancements. Chula XL is not only a new educational model but also a vital mechanism for extending the university’s knowledge to society, enhancing people’s potential, promoting lifelong learning, and strengthening the country’s long-term competitiveness. 

“Chula XL expands educational opportunities beyond traditional university students, positioning the university as a hub for public learning. ‘XL’ represents the greatest form of knowledge—knowledge that cultivates wisdom among the Thai people. Chula emphasizes the creation of wisdom rather than merely delivering knowledge, as knowledge may become outdated, but the ability to think critically and process information endures,” said the President. 

The Faculty of Integrated Agriculture, developed by the School of Agricultural Resources, aims to produce “smart farmers” and “agripreneurs” capable of solving systemic challenges. It promotes interdisciplinary research and innovation across the entire value chain—from production and processing to marketing—while contributing to poverty reduction, decreasing inequality, and enhancing global food security. 

Meanwhile, the College of Interdisciplinary and Integrative Studies, formerly the Graduate School, has been restructured to align with global changes. It seeks to become a regional leader in integrated interdisciplinary education, covering undergraduate, graduate, and lifelong learning levels. By integrating knowledge across disciplines with modern technology, the college aims to develop highly competent, entrepreneurial graduates who can address future societal challenges. 

The establishment of these new faculties and units reflects the university’s vision to develop a flexible, modern education system that responds effectively to the needs of society, the nation, and its people.

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