On July 11, 2024, Naresuan University hosted the 20th Naresuan Research and Innovation Event under the theme “Innovation and Technology for a Sustainable Society.” The event began with a welcome speech by Dr. Phetdao Tohmeena, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, who presided over the opening ceremony.
Associate Professor Dr. Sarintip Tantanee, Acting President of Naresuan University, noted that the university is a key educational institution in the lower northern and upper central regions of Thailand, offering a comprehensive range of disciplines. The university is committed to producing leading-edge research that benefits both the region and the country. It focuses on University-Enterprise Collaboration and International Linkage to meet national and societal needs, emphasizing cooperation with the government, private sectors, and public organizations to foster social progress and economic stability. This year marks the university’s 34th anniversary.
Dr. Phetdao Tohmeena highlighted that the conference provides a platform for presenting research by faculty members and students from within and beyond the institution. It also facilitates the exchange of academic knowledge among faculty, students, researchers, and the private sector, aiming to enhance the quality of research. This supports teaching, learning, and practical applications across various fields, including society, the economy, and the environment. She emphasized the need for higher education institutions in Thailand to adapt to global trends such as Digital Disruption and AI to remain competitive and relevant.
Professor Dr. Kornkanok Inkaninan, Vice President for Research and Innovation Development, detailed the conference activities, which included presentations and theses from the health sciences, science and technology, and humanities and social sciences groups. Special events featured:
- Special Policy Lecture: “Innovation and Technology for a Sustainable Society” by Dr. Phetdao Tohmeena.
- Special Talk: “Nano-Carbons Innovation toward Circular Carbon Economy” by Emeritus Professor Morinobu Endo from Shinshu University, Japan.
- Special Seminar: “Innovation and Technology: Opportunities and Challenges for Thailand and Future Changes toward Sustainability.”
- Discussion: “Phitsanulok as a Center for Wellness in the Lower Northern Region.”
Awards were presented to honor and inspire new researchers:
- Naresuan University Research Honor Award for 2024.
- Plaques for researchers recognized in national and international invention and innovation competitions for 2024.
- Doctor Piyachanok Ungphakorn Award for research with significant impact on society, communities, and regions.
- Outstanding Research Presentation Award.
The event also featured the 8th National Soil and Fertilizer Conference, organized by the Soil and Fertilizer Association of Thailand and the Faculty of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment at Naresuan University, and the 2nd Thai Network for Disaster Resilience Conference.
