Message from the President

Walailak University continues to make great strides in its commitment to cultivating global leaders who are both professionally proficient and morally grounded, in alignment with its motto, “Sustainable Growth in Education and Green Environment.” Over the years, the university has expanded its global presence, marked by significant national and international achievements. In 2025, the university is ranked within the 1201-1500 range among research-intensive universities worldwide, placing 6th in Thailand according to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. Walailak University has also excelled in its contribution to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in stewardship and outreach to support sustainability, ranking 3rd and 4th worldwide, respectively, in the THE Impact Rankings Report 2024. Additionally, the university’s efforts in advancing the SDGs have been recognized with the Global Good Governance Awards 2024 from Cambridge IFA for Advocacy of Social Responsibility in Higher Education and as an excellent Green Campus. The university also received a “Best Practice” evaluation for academic services in the 2023 academic year from its quality assurance system.  

Walailak University’s partnerships with over 100 institutions and international researchers across America, Europe, Asia, and Australia have resulted in over 90 percent of the university’s research publications being in Scopus-indexed quartile 1 and quartile 2 journals - the highest ratio among Thai institutions. This achievement earned Walailak University the Outstanding Award for Internationally High-Caliber Research from Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. Our teaching and learning practices are internationally standardized, conducted based on the United Kingdom Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF). With over 700 professional teachers certified by Advance HE - the highest number among Thai institutions - we ensure that our graduates are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. Walailak University also stands out as the only university in Thailand to implement an eight-month cooperative education program, offering students professional experience in real-world workplaces and preparing them to confidently excel in their careers upon graduation.

Walailak University places great emphasis on providing high-standard facilities to foster an enriching educational environment and ensure students’ well-being. These include smart classrooms, smart laboratories, co-working spaces, on-campus dormitories, a sports complex, the Chopradu Food Court, and various recreational areas. The university has the largest ornamental garden among Thai universities, a serene space where students and the public can unwind and exercise. The 533-acre botanical park is home to preserved native plants and an herbal garden, serving as a valuable educational resource for students and the broader community in the Southern region. Moreover, Walailak University Hospital, a tertiary hospital currently operating with 540 beds and specialized clinics, plays a vital role in providing healthcare services for the people of the upper Southern region.  

Walailak University is also committed to advancing its graduate studies programs in three main academic areas - Health Sciences, Science and Technology, and Social Sciences - offering master's and doctoral degrees that are designed to address the needs of a rapidly evolving global landscape. These programs emphasize advanced research, interdisciplinary approaches, and practical applications, equipping graduates with the expertise and vision to make meaningful contributions to society and various industries worldwide.   

Looking ahead to 2025, we remain steadfast in providing education for future generations, tackling national and global challenges, and driving sustainability for the peace and prosperity of our planet. Our achievements, made possible by the hard work and dedication of our community, inspire confidence in students and parents who entrust their future to our institution. With these efforts, we are determined to rank among the Top 5 universities in Thailand, and will continue to be an institution of good governance, a source of knowledge for critical problems facing the nation, to unfailingly address community needs, and to strive for international recognition for excellence.

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong 
President of Walailak University