Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Confers Degrees to University of Phayao Graduates for the Academic Year 2023

The University of Phayao Council has approved the awarding of honorary doctoral degrees to individuals who have made significantly contributions to the nation and society. The recipients of the Honorary Doctorates for the 2023 academic year are:

The University of Phayao Council has approved the awarding of honorary doctoral degrees to individuals who have made significantly contributions to the nation and society. The recipients of the Honorary Doctorates for the 2023 academic year are:

1. Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Law
   - Phra Paisan Prachathorn Vi. (Phra Ajarn Phob Chok Tissavaso)
2. Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management Technology
   - Emeritus Professor Dr. Thares Srisatit
3. Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Thai
   - Assistant Professor Dr. Prapote Assawavirunhakarn

4. Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Creative Architecture (Interdisciplinary curriculum)
   - Professor Special Dr. Anek Laothamatas

In addition, the Outstanding Teaching Award for 2024 was conferred upon Assistant Professor Dr. Wilaiphorn Wichayawat.

The Outstanding Researcher Awards for 2023 were presented to four recipients in different fields:

1. Assistant Professor Ratchaniporn Kongsui (Health Sciences)
2. Assistant Professor Dr. Thiti Gaketem (Science and Technology)
3. Warach Madhyamapurush (Humanities and Social Sciences)
4. Assistant Professor Dr. Payungsuk Intawicha (Participatory Community Research)

As of the academic year 2024, the University of Phayao has 21,578 students and 1,903 staff members. The university has made significant progress in various missions, including:

• Human Capital Development: In 2024 5,964 new students enrolled, and 3,810 students graduated in 2023.
• Research and Innovation: The university collaborates with government agencies, private sectors, and communities to develop research and innovations, contributing to economic, social, and community advancements. The "UP Product" initiative has successfully commercialized university research, generating income for local communities.
• Academic Services and Cultural Promotion: The university promotes lifelong learning through initiatives such as the "One Faculty, One Innovation Community" project and the "Learning Space" development project, which serves people of all ages. Notably, UNESCO has recognized Phayao as a Learning City.
• Social Well-Being and Institutional Development: The university has consistently been ranked globally and has maintained its position as Thailand's top-ranked university for student loan repayment rates for three consecutive years.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's Royal Speech to the Graduates

"His Majesty the King has graciously appointed me to represent him at the University of Phayao's degree conferral ceremony for the academic year 2023. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the distinguished individuals and graduates on this prestigious achievement.

Education is a crucial factor in both personal and national development, serving as the foundation for stability and progress. A well-rounded education encompasses not only knowledge and skills, but also character, ethics, and discipline, which are essential in shaping individuals into responsible and capable members of society. True success is achieved through a combination of intelligence, integrity, diligence, and a strong sense of responsibility. Graduates who apply their education for the greater good will not only benefit themselves, but also contribute to the betterment of the nation.

On behalf of His Majesty the King, I wish all graduates and attendees continued success, happiness, and prosperity."

In the academic year 2023, a total of 3,810 degrees were awarded at the doctoral, master's, and bachelor's levels, including dual-degree programs. The University of Phayao's 2023 graduation ceremonies will take place from February 23rd to 25th, 2025, at the Phaya Ngam Muang Auditorium, located at the University of Phayao in Phayao Province.