Research News

The Center for Academic Services, in collaboration with the School of Science and the School of Accountancy and Finance at Walailak University, conducted a hands-on learning activity based on the STEM Education approach through the “Young Hydroponics Way of Life” learning stations at Chumchon Mai School, Thaiburi Subdistrict, Tha Sala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, on August 5, 2026. The activity aimed to develop career skills, promote food self-reliance, and support the sustainable development of communities surrounding the University.

The activity was part of the sub-activity “STEM Education for Sustainable Hydroponic Vegetable Cultivation,” under “The Integrated Multidisciplinary Programs for Sustainable Educational Outreach to Communities Surrounding the University.” Led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Hathaichanok Kommen, the activity created an engaging learning environment outside the classroom for Grade 5 and Grade 6 students. The students took on the roles of “young scientists and junior farmers,” rotating through two hands-on learning stations:

Cost and Profit Calculation Station: Students learned how to calculate the production costs of hydroponic vegetables and establish appropriate selling prices systematically. The station was supported by Dr. Saiphit Satjawisate from the School of Accountancy and Finance, through an ad-hoc activity conducted in collaboration with “the Project for Strengthening Transparency in Temple Accounting and Internal Control Systems” under “the Program for Advancing Social and Cultural Development toward Sustainable Communities.” The activity introduced young learners to basic accounting and fundamental business concepts, helping them understand how agricultural production can be managed as a viable enterprise.

Hydroponic Vegetable Processing Station: In addition to learning proper and hygienic harvesting techniques for hydroponic vegetables, the students gained hands-on experience transforming fresh, chemical-free produce from the school’s growing plots into healthy sandwiches. Faculty members incorporated lessons on food sanitation and encouraged students to apply creativity in food presentation and product design to create added value from agricultural produce. The activity inspired students to recognize opportunities to transform vegetables they grow themselves into ready-to-eat products and introduced them to the concept of becoming young innovative agricultural entrepreneurs in the future.

The organizing team extends its sincere appreciation to the Director of Chumchon Mai School, and the school’s teachers for their warm welcome, venue support, coordination, and valuable assistance, all of which contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the activity.

Beyond providing an enjoyable learning experience and fostering STEM-based thinking, the activity also contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 4: Quality Education by providing meaningful learning opportunities beyond the classroom; SDG 2: Zero Hunger by strengthening safe agricultural learning and food security; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration among the university, school, and local community. The initiative also supports the “WU HAPPY TREE” framework in the area of education and contributes to the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, particularly Education (ED5).

News by Mr. Kittipong Bunlear, The Center for Academic Services, Walailak University https://cas.wu.ac.th