Chulalongkorn University Hosts AUA-CU Arts & Culture Workshop 2026 

BANGKOK – The Office of Student Affairs at Chulalongkorn University, in partnership with the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), successfully concluded the AUA-CU Arts & Culture Workshop 2026. Held from March 18 to 24, this year’s program centered on the poignant theme: “The Art of Aging: Creative Expression and Cultural Engagement in Later Life.” 

The workshop served as a vibrant “Pan-Asian Collaboration,” uniting a diverse cohort of students and academics from eight leading institutions across the continent: Nazarbayev University (Kazakhstan), Seoul National University (South Korea), Universitas Indonesia (Indonesia), the University of Tokyo (Japan), Tsinghua University (China), Universiti Malaya (Malaysia), the University of Yangon (Myanmar), and the host, Chulalongkorn University (Thailand). 

A Week of Cultural Immersion and Academic Insight 

The journey began with dynamic ice-breaking sessions and a cultural tour of Chulalongkorn’s historic campus, providing a localized context for how urban spaces can foster active aging. This was followed by an expert sharing session titled “The Melody of Well-being,” led by Dr. Rachun Charoenkaensai from Roi Et Rajabhat University, who illustrated how Thai traditional music serves as a powerful catalyst for senior health. 

The second day took participants to the majestic Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, followed by a hands-on visit to the Yannawa Elderly School. Under the guidance of Director Mr. Likhit Limrotrauai, participants collaborated with local seniors on art projects reflecting intergenerational relationships. 

The mid-week curriculum balanced traditional wisdom with practical design. Participants explored the medicinal potential of Thai herb inhalers (Ya-Dom) in a workshop by the Center of Learning Network for the Region before entering intensive simulation phases to design their final presentations effectively.  

A highlight of the week was a deep dive “Sharing Session” with Ms. Kobkul Kwuangsuan from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, where delegates learned directly from the life experiences and wisdom of the elderly. 

Final Showcases: Innovation for Aging Societies 

On the final morning, the atmosphere was filled with excitement as participants pitched their creative solutions. Representatives from the Yannawa Elderly School joined as special guests to provide authentic feedback on the following projects: 

• Group 1: A holistic health project combining Tai Chi movements with the traditional craft of Myanmar lotus silk and batik making. 
• Group 2: A “Silver Fashion” initiative, empowering seniors to express their identities as both designers and runway models. 
• Group 3: An art exhibition titled “Young Eyes, Wise Eyes,” showcasing contrasting perspectives of youth and seniors through a collaborative mural workshop. 
• Group 4: A storytelling-through-art program where seniors’ life narratives were transformed into artworks, integrated with English vocabulary lessons. 

A Night of Celebration and Cultural Unity 

The workshop culminated in a grand closing ceremony and farewell dinner. Assistant Professor Dr. Narapong Srivisal, Assistant to the President for Student Affairs, delivered a heartfelt closing remark, emphasizing that “undergraduates, as a youth power, are at the leading edge of global innovation.” 

Certificates of completion and special awards were presented to the delegates, recognizing their dedication and innovative spirit. The night concluded with a dazzling array of cultural performances, as participants from each of the eight countries showcased their national heritage through music and dance, solidifying the bonds of friendship and regional collaboration formed throughout the week. 

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