Message from the President

Walailak University, now in its 34th year, has undergone remarkable transformations that continue to strengthen its position as a leading research-intensive institution. Guided by the motto “Sustainable Growth in Education and Green Environment,” the university is dedicated to shaping future-ready graduates who embody academic excellence with strong professional skills. Walailak University is the only institution in the nation that requires all students in non-professional council programs to complete an eight-month Cooperative Education placement—an internship highly valued by employers for providing real workplace experience and the confidence students need to excel in their future careers.

In the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Walailak University is placed among the top six universities in Thailand and within the 1201+ band globally. Although a newcomer in the world ranking scheme, we are confident that we will do better next time. Our commitment to sustainability has also earned international recognition. Walailak University is currently ranked 93rd worldwide in the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings for its progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and stands proudly as No. 1 in the world for supporting SDG 5: Gender Equality. The university’s quality assurance system, inspired by the ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance (AUN-QA), ensures operations are aligned with international standards, while the implementation of the United Kingdom Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) has played a key role in cultivating critical, analytical, and synthetic thinking skills among our students.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, English proficiency has become essential for global competitiveness. All Walailak University freshmen participate in an intensive, one-month supplementary English course designed to strengthen fundamental skills, in addition to the 390 hours of foundational English lessons—well above the national standard. This is to ensure that our students can communicate confidently and effectively in the English language. Additionally, the foundational English classes are capped at around 25 students to promote active engagement and personalized support.

We care deeply about our students. We want them to have the best learning experience while they are with us. The university’s Smart Classrooms and state-of-the-art laboratories ensure modern, technologically advanced learning environments. Students also benefit from comprehensive sports facilities and high-quality on-campus dormitories that accommodate nearly half of our student body. 

Research excellence remains a cornerstone of the university’s striving for international competitiveness. Approximately 80 percent of our publications appear in top-tier Q1 Scopus-indexed journals, while 90 percent are published in Q1 and Q2 journals combined. More than 60 percent of our research involves international collaborations—reflecting our growing global engagement and scholarly impact.

Walailak University is not only the largest campus in Thailand—spanning 9,594 rai (3,793 acres)—but also one of the most thoughtfully developed. The university’s 250-rai (99 acres) park serves as a rejuvenating green space for both students and the public to enjoy and unwind. A 1,350-rai (534 acres) botanic park provides a vital conservation area and a learning center showcasing Southern Thailand’s rich biodiversity. Walailak University Hospital, a 540-bed medical center offering specialized services, plays a key role in supporting healthcare across the upper Southern region. Looking ahead, the university is preparing to construct a new 4,500-seat Convention Hall, which will expand our capacity to host academic conferences, international events, and major university gatherings.

As we enter 2026, we remain deeply committed to advancing our mission in education, research, and community service. We will move forward with confidence to contribute responsibly to society and to the peace and prosperity of the global community. Together, we will continue building a university that stands among the best in Thailand and is increasingly recognized on the world stage.

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong
President of Walailak University