สถาบันส่งเสริมการวิจัยและนวัตกรรมสู่ความเป็นเลิศ มหาวิทยาลัยวลัยลักษณ์

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News about research or outstanding research activities.

Walailak University Hosts the 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026), Strengthening Global Research Collaboration for Sustainable Development

Walailak University successfully hosted the 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026) from March 25–28, 2026, at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, in celebration of the University’s 34th anniversary. The event brought together a large number of researchers, academics, and international partners, reinforcing its role as a significant global academic platform.
This year’s convention was held under the theme “Global Higher Education Synergy in Driving Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability,” highlighting the role of higher education institutions in fostering global collaboration to achieve carbon neutrality and long-term sustainability.

The Opening Ceremony took place on March 26, 2026, at Bussarakam Hall, Princess Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Walailak University. The event was presided over by Dr. Punpermsak Aruni, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), Thailand, who also delivered a keynote address on the role of Thai higher education in the global research landscape.
A highlight of the event included a keynote speech by Professor Anthony Gerard O’Donnell from Murdoch University, Australia, titled “The Future of Sustainable Innovation: Co-Creating AI for a Net-Zero Global Economy.” The convention also featured an international panel discussion on “The 2030 Agenda: Leveraging AI for a Sustainable Future,” with experts from Brazil, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and Thailand.
Throughout the convention, more than 15 parallel sessions and symposia were organized, covering key disciplines such as medical technology, materials and nanotechnology, artificial intelligence for sustainability, public health, environmental science, and socio-economic development. Researchers from over 17 countries participated in the event.

Beyond being a platform for academic exchange, WRC 2026 played a crucial role in strengthening international research networks and fostering an innovation ecosystem that supports technology transfer, startup development, and regional economic growth.
Walailak University remains committed to advancing high-quality research, expanding global partnerships, and driving impactful innovation toward a sustainable future.

Written by: Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence

📅March 26, 2026

March 26, 2026
Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence Organizes Lecture on Cultural Capital and Creative Economy

On Monday, March 23, 2026, the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence at Walailak University organized a special lecture on “Enhancing Cultural Capital toward a Creative Economy City.” The event aimed to promote the integration of cultural capital into economic development and strengthen the role of creative industries in society.

The lecture was delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Pollavat Prapattong, Head of the Institute for Mekong River Basin Civilisation, Art, and Culture, Mae Fah Luang University. He shared valuable insights on strategies for transforming cultural capital into economic value, emphasizing its potential to drive sustainable development at both local and national levels.

During the event, 10 research proposals were presented by researchers to receive constructive feedback from the guest speaker. This session helped improve the quality and feasibility of the proposals, align them with the cultural capital-creative economy concept, and increase their potential for future funding support.

On this occasion, Associate Professor Dr. Wichitpan Rongwong, Acting Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation Excellence, delivered the welcoming remarks and officially opened the event.

This activity is part of the “Research Network for Research Program and Proposal Development (Network for Research)” project. The initiative aims to foster collaboration among researchers from diverse disciplines through the establishment of research networks within the organization. It also supports the development of integrated research topics that respond to societal needs and align with external funding priorities.

Promoting cultural capital to creative economy is considered a key strategy in enhancing research capacity and driving sustainable development, particularly in today’s knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.

Written by: Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence
📅 March 23, 2026

March 23, 2026
Walailak University Announces WRC 2026 and Walailak Investor Day 2026 to Celebrate its 34th Anniversary

Walailak University officially announced its readiness to host the 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026) alongside Walailak Investor Day 2026 in celebration of the university’s 34th anniversary. The events will take place from 25–28 March 2026 at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand.

The press conference was held on 13 March 2026 at Khao Luang Conference Room, Cooperative Education Building, led by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, together with Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation, Associate Professor Dr. Wichitphan Rongwong, Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation Excellence, and Assistant Professor Dr. Anurak Thungthong, Director of the Science and Technology Park.

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, emphasized the university’s strong commitment to research excellence and the development of a robust research ecosystem. This has led to significant improvements in global rankings, including the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings and THE Impact Rankings, as well as a continuous increase in international research publications.

Associate Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation, highlighted that the event aligns with the “Reinventing University” initiative, aiming to elevate the university to an internationally recognized research institution. The convention will feature participation from global experts and researchers to exchange knowledge on sustainability and future technologies.

Associate Prof.Dr. Wichitpan Rongwong, Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation Excellence, emphasized that WRC 2026 serves as a key mechanism to integrate collaboration among Centers of Excellence, research centers, and academic schools within the university, aiming to elevate the conference to international standards.

This year, a significant number of centers are actively organizing various academic activities, including international conferences, symposia, and special sessions. These activities highlight the university’s research strengths across multiple disciplines such as medical technology, artificial intelligence, nanomaterials, public health, and sustainability.

Furthermore, the convention focuses on enhancing the quality of research at the international level by promoting global dissemination, fostering international research collaborations, and supporting the translation of research outcomes into practical applications, both academically and commercially.

In parallel, Walailak Investor Day 2026, organized by the Walailak University Science and Technology Park, will be held under the theme:
“Synergy of Innovation: Powering Regional Growth.”
The event is designed to connect researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry partners, promoting the commercialization of research outputs. Key activities include keynote sessions, business matching, spin-off company launches, innovation showcases, and partnership agreements.

Together, these events reflect Walailak University’s role as a leading hub for research and innovation, fostering collaboration that drives economic growth, societal development, and global sustainability.

Written by: Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence

📅 March 13, 2026

March 13, 2026
Policy Briefing by the President on Supporting International Research Co-Publication

📢 The Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence held a policy briefing session

Guidelines on Supporting International Co-Publication with Overseas Scholars

On 10 February 2026, the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence organized a briefing to promote and support research publication in collaboration with international scholars. The initiative aligns with Walailak University’s development direction toward becoming a world-class research-intensive university.

According to the 2026 World University Rankings, Walailak University ranked in the 1201–1500 band globally and 6th in Thailand, with a notable strength in Research Quality ✨

The event was honored by distinguished speakers:

🔹 Prof. Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President — delivered the policy address
🔹 Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation — provided guidance and answered questions
🔹 Asst. Prof. Dr. Patnarin Supakorn, Director of the International Affairs Center — presented funding opportunities supporting international co-publication
🔹 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wichitpan Rongwong, Acting Director of the Institute — presented AI tools for identifying research collaborators and publication support strategies

A total of 66 researchers from 13 schools attended the event, reflecting strong engagement and commitment among faculty members to elevate research output to the international stage 🌏

February 17, 2026
Walailak University Organizes the Human Research Ethics Training Program for Fiscal Year 2026
On Saturday, 31 January 2026, the Institute for Research and Innovation Promotion toward Excellence, in collaboration with the Forum for Ethical Review Committees in Thailand (FERCIT), organized the Human Research Ethics Training Program (Thai-language Course) at Bhattarathamaporn Conference Room, 9th Floor, Building B, Walailak University Medical Center Hospital.

The objective of this training program was to enhance participants’ understanding of the principles and criteria for ethical review of research involving human subjects, including risk and benefit assessment for research participants, the informed consent process, ethical considerations in various types of research, good clinical and research practices, and standard operating procedures of human research ethics committees. The program aimed to improve the quality of academic research and ensure compliance with international standards on human research ethics. The training was attended by more than 120 participants, including faculty members, researchers, students, and university personnel.

The distinguished speakers from the Forum for Ethical Review Committees in Thailand (FERCIT) were as follows:
- Dr. Anothai Phokathikorn (Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University)
- Colonel Associate Professor Dr. Nithipan Suksumegh (Phramongkutklao College of Medicine)
- Colonel Associate Professor Dr. Naiyarat Prasongsuk (Phramongkutklao College of Medicine)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Nithikun Aksorn (Navamindradhiraj University)
On this occasion, Associate Professor Dr. Wichitpan Rongwong, Acting Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation Promotion toward Excellence, graciously presided over and delivered the opening remarks for the training program.

Following the training, participants were required to complete a post-test and a short satisfaction survey, the results of which will be used to further develop and improve future training programs. Participants who achieved a post-test score of no less than 80 percent were awarded a certificate of completion.

The Institute for Research and Innovation Promotion toward Excellence is committed to supporting faculty members, researchers, students, and personnel in becoming competent, responsible, and ethically grounded researchers, in alignment with international standards of research ethics.
February 4, 2026
You Are Invited to Join The 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026)

Walailak University, through the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence (RIIE), cordially invites researchers, academics, students, and interested participants to attend The 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026), taking place on March 25–28, 2026, at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand.

    The conference theme is: “Global Higher Education Synergy in Driving Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability.”

    WRC 2026 serves as an international platform for knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and innovation networking aimed at advancing carbon neutrality and sustainability goals through global higher education synergy and emerging technologies.

Official Opening Ceremony

    • Date: March 26, 2026

    • Venue: Bussarakham Meeting Room, Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Walailak University

    • Live broadcast via Facebook: Walailak Channel

Conference Highlights Include:

    • Opening Ceremony Address by national executive leadership

    • Keynote Speech by an internationally recognized scholar

    • International Panel Discussion:

        “The 2030 Agenda: Leveraging AI for a Sustainable Future”

    • Oral Presentations

    • Parallel Sessions

    • Special Sessions

    • Walailak Investor Day 2026

Registration: https://forms.gle/QS3VBBxgWdBssqHS6

More Information: https://wrc.wu.ac.th/2026

Tel.: +66 7576 3558

January 30, 2026
Invitation to Participate in Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026)

Walailak University cordially invites scholars, researchers, students, and interested participants to attend the 5th Walailak Research Convention 2026 (WRC 2026), to be held during 25–28 March 2026 at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, in celebration of the 34th Anniversary of Walailak University.

The convention is organized under the theme:
“Global Higher Education Synergy in Driving Carbon Neutrality and Sustainability”
and aims to promote international knowledge exchange, foster global research collaboration, and highlight the vital role of higher education in addressing sustainability and climate challenges.

The Official Opening Ceremony will take place on 26 March 2026, from 08:30–12:00 hrs., at the Bussarakham Meeting Room, Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum. The program features keynote speeches, high-level policy talks, and an international panel discussion delivered by distinguished experts from leading institutions worldwide.

Participants will gain valuable insights into artificial intelligence, sustainable innovation, and carbon neutrality, while expanding academic and professional networks on a global platform.

📌 Free participation
📌 Registration: https://forms.gle/QS3VBBxgWdBssqHS6
🔗 More information: https://wrc.wu.ac.th/2026

January 29, 2026
Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence (RIIE)Hosts Special Lecture on “Strategies and Experiences in Securing International Research Grants”

On Friday, December 26, 2025, the Institute for Excellence in Research and Innovation Promotion organized a special lecture titled “Strategies and Experiences in Securing International Research Grants.” The event was presided over by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation, who delivered the opening remarks.

The institute was honored to have Research Professor Dr. Jetsumon Prachumsri, Associate Dean for Research at the Faculty of Tropical Medicine and Head of the Mahidol Vivax Research Unit (MVRU), as the keynote speaker. Dr. Jetsumon shared her extensive knowledge, firsthand experiences, and strategic approaches to developing high-quality research proposals for international funding agencies.

This event served as a collaborative platform for researchers to exchange ideas and gain direct insights from a leading expert. Participants received valuable consultations and recommendations on elevating their research proposals to meet international standards, fostering future global research networks and collaborations.

The lecture drew significant interest, with 55 researchers attending from 12 different schools. This high turnout reflects the enthusiasm and commitment of the university’s research personnel to elevating their work to a global stage.

January 19, 2026
Upper Southern Higher Education Network Hosts “U-School Mentoring Reading & Showcase” to Advance Educational Quality and Foster a Love of Reading
On December 19, 2025, Walailak University, serving as the host institution of the Upper Southern Higher Education Network, organized the “U-School Mentoring Reading & Showcase” event to present and share outcomes from the Education Quality Development and Local Development Project — mentored by higher education institutions — along with reading promotion competition activities for fiscal year 2025.

The event stemmed from the Upper Southern Higher Education Network receiving support from the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (OPS-MHESI) to implement two key projects

The Education Quality Development and Local Development Project, mentored by higher education institutions under the Higher Education Development Network, fiscal year 2025

The Education Quality Development and Local Development Project, mentored by higher education institutions — Reading Promotion Activities, fiscal year 2025

The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr. Keerati Kaewsamrit, Director of the Higher Education Driving and Development Division. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation of Walailak University, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Project Management Committee of the Upper Southern Higher Education Network, delivered the welcome address. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wichitpan Rongwong, Director of the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence, serving as Secretary of the Project Management Committee, presented the project report.

The event featured key activities that reflected the tangible outcomes of the projects. It drew considerable interest from executives and representatives of OPS-MHESI, including Ms. Nadda Cheyode, Director of the HSRI Driving and Development Group 1, as well as representatives from the Upper and Lower Central Higher Education Networks, project management committee members, faculty from network institutions, teachers, and students — with approximately 150 participants in total.

The “U-School Mentoring Reading & Showcase” served not only as a platform for presenting academic work and project achievements, but also as an opportunity to strengthen collaborative networks among higher education institutions, schools, and communities, with the shared goal of sustainably elevating educational quality and nurturing a reading culture at the local level.

Photo galleries and event highlights are available for viewing.

Written by: Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence

December 19, 2025
December 19, 2025
Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence Organizes the “AI for Academic Excellence” Workshop to Enhance Publication Capacity through Artificial Intelligence

On Wednesday, 3 December 2025, the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence organized an online hands-on workshop entitled “AI for Academic Excellence: Enhancing Publication Capacity through Artificial Intelligence” via Zoom Meeting. The opening ceremony was presided over by Associate Professor Dr. Siwit Pongkarangsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation, who officially opened the program and emphasized the importance of applying artificial intelligence to advance research quality and academic publishing.

The workshop was honored by Professor Dr. Panita Wannapiroon, Head of the Department of Information and Communication Technology for Education, Faculty of Industrial Education, and Head of the Innovation and Technology Management Research Center, Research and Development Office of Science and Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok. She also serves as Chairperson of the IEEE Education Society Thailand Chapter. Professor Dr. Panita served as the keynote speaker, sharing her academic expertise and professional experience with participants.

The training program aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and understanding of the application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the research process and the preparation of academic manuscripts. The workshop focused on the use of AI to support data analysis, improve scholarly writing, and develop effective prompt engineering techniques, thereby increasing the quality and publication potential of research outputs at both national and international levels.

The workshop attracted strong interest from academic staff and researchers, with a total of 80 participants in attendance. Participants are expected to apply the knowledge and skills gained to systematically and efficiently develop and refine their research manuscripts, contributing to higher-quality and more impactful scholarly publications.

สถาบันส่งเสริมการวิจัยและนวัตกรรมสู่ความเป็นเลิศจัดโครงการอบรมเชิงปฏิบัติการ เรื่อง AI for Academic Excellence เพิ่มศักยภาพการตีพิมพ์ด้วยปัญญาประดิษฐ์

Interested individuals may access the recorded training videos at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DE5l793b4exWS1BxpvsCanA51kURvlZ2?usp=sharing

December 4, 2025