Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Saengtham College Xavier Chiang Rai Campus on expanding an academic service network and expanding educational opportunities for the underprivileged throughout Thailand, including students from neighboring countries such as Myanmar and Laos, with the aim of making undergraduate education more accessible in a convenient learning format for everyone. The signing ceremony was held at Saengtham College Xavier Campus Chiang Rai on 25 March 2025.
STOU team who joined the signing ceremony included;
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanompatt Smitananda, Acting President of STOU
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narathip Sriram Acting Vice-President for Education, Learning Support, and Research
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khajornsak Sitthi, Director of the Office of Educational Services
• Mr. Banchong Somsri, Director of Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center – Lampang
• Mr. Tamphong Wongchan, Director of Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center – Nonthaburi Saengtham College Xavier Chiang Rai Campus team who joined the The signing ceremony included;
• Father Dr. Winai Boonlue, Vice-President for Saengtham College Xavier Chiang Rai Campus
• Father Dr. Pichet Saengtien, Dean of Faculty of Liberal Arts
STOU is the first open university in Thailand that provides distance education, with the concept “Anywhere, Anytime, Anyone Can Learn” by using variety of learning material and channel.
• Text Book
• STOU Online Learning
• TV Chanel and Video Clip
• Consultation at STOU Regional Academic Resources and Community Engagement Center
The MOU is an important step for expanding educational opportunities to students in remote areas, including populations in border regions of Thailand and neighboring countries, so they can access higher education without having to relocate. Furthermore, the MOU also lead the future plan to develop and expand educational opportunities to the Upper Mekong River area.
