Walailak University, in collaboration with surrounding communities, organized the 2024 Songkran Festival to preserve Thailand’s beautiful traditions. The event focused on paying respect to the elderly and strengthening the relationship between the university and its neighboring communities.

Today (April 18, 2024), the Cultural and Sports Promotion Center, together with the Academic Services Center, Walailak University, and the communities of Village No. 6, Hua Taphan Subdistrict, and Village No. 8, Thai Buri Subdistrict, Thasala District, jointly organized the Songkran festival. The event was held to honor the tradition of paying respect to the elderly, preserve Thai culture, and instill a sense of love and gratitude towards elders and benefactors. The ceremony took place at the central hall of the School of Architecture and Design, Walailak University.

Associate Professor Dr. Suwit Wuthisutthimethee, Vice President of Walailak University, acting on behalf of the University President, presided over the event. Associate Professor Dr. Marisa Phumipak Na Nongkhai, Director of the Cultural and Sports Promotion Center, delivered the report. The event was lively, with over 500 attendees, including university administrators, faculty members, staff, students, honored guests, and community leaders. They gathered to pour water over the hands of 70 elderly individuals from the surrounding communities, asking for their blessings.

Associate Professor Dr. Suwit Wuthisutthimethee emphasized that the annual Walailak Songkran Festival is held to foster good relations between the university and its neighboring communities. The festival also serves to express gratitude towards elders by pouring water over their hands and seeking blessings for good fortune. Additionally, the university remains committed to developing surrounding communities under its guiding principle of “Being a Pillar of the Community, Excellence Towards Global Standards.” This commitment includes the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, which is seen as valuable for its economic potential in strengthening and sustaining the community’s prosperity.

During the event, elderly community members, who have contributed significantly to their communities and society over the years, were invited to receive blessings from the university students and staff. The ceremony included a Buddhist ritual and the pouring of water over a Buddha image for good fortune. The event featured performances by the Walailak University Dance Club and the Walailak Demonstration Child Development Center, as well as a traditional circle dance accompanied by drums. Awards were given to the healthiest elderly individuals and the best dancers, and food stalls were set up by various university departments.