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Walailak University, in collaboration with the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) and Thammasat University, has launched Phase II of the RUSH Program to enhance the capabilities of humanities and social sciences researchers. The initiative aims to transform research into practical applications that create tangible impacts on communities, policy, and industry. Researchers from five higher education institutions across Southern Thailand are participating in the program.

Walailak University, in partnership with the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) and Thammasat University, is hosting the Research Utilizations Program for Social Sciences and Humanities Phase II (Southern Region), or RUSH, from 18–20 June 2026. The program is designed to equip researchers from five universities in Southern Thailand with the knowledge and skills needed to advance early-stage research toward real-world applications at the local, policy, and commercial levels.

The official opening ceremony was held on 18 June 2026 at Grand Fortune Hotel, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The event was presided over by Ms. Saowanee Mungsujaritkarn, Deputy Executive Director of the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). She was welcomed by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, and Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President for Research and Innovation. The ceremony also featured a special keynote address by Professor Dr. Anek Laothamatas, former Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

 

Ms. Saowanee emphasized the vital role of humanities and social sciences research in understanding societal challenges and supporting sustainable national development. She noted that NRCT seeks to ensure that research goes beyond identifying problems and contributes to practical solutions and meaningful change. The RUSH Program serves as an important mechanism for nurturing researchers through expert mentorship, enabling their work to address societal needs effectively.



Professor Dr. Sombat stated that Walailak University is honored to co-host the RUSH Program. He highlighted the university’s commitment to producing high-quality research while generating positive impacts on society, communities, and the nation. The training program, he said, provides a valuable opportunity for researchers to strengthen their capabilities, transform knowledge into practical outcomes, and build strong academic networks across Southern Thailand.



Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit added that the RUSH training program is supported by funding from NRCT and the Upper Southern Thailand Higher Education Development Network under the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. A total of 39 researchers were selected to participate, representing five higher education institutions: Walailak University, Prince of Songkla University, Thaksin University, Hatyai University, and Suratthani Rajabhat University.

Walailak University places strong emphasis on developing a robust research ecosystem by supporting researchers at all levels, from early-career academics to leading scholars. The university has achieved remarkable growth in research performance, particularly in the humanities and social sciences. Publications in Scopus-indexed journals have increased significantly. In fiscal year 2026 (October 2025 - May 2026), researchers in these disciplines published 132 articles, including 106 articles in Q1 journals and 121 articles in Q1 and Q2 journals combined, reflecting the university’s growing research excellence and international visibility.











 

 

 





News by Chonthicha Limpiti/ Translated and edited by Settaboot Onphakdee, Division of Corporate Communications