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SOLGEN Extends Congratulations to Asst. Prof. Dr. Taweeluck Pollachom, on Receiving Research Funding from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI)

The School of Languages and General Education (SOLGEN) extends its congratulations to Assistant Professor Dr. Taweeluck Pollachom, a faculty member of the School of Languages and General Education, on receiving research funding from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).

The funding has been awarded for the research project entitled “Enhancing truth-telling and survivor-led justice in Thailand’s Southern Border provinces, mobilizing women and youth to heal communities affected by two decades of armed violence,” with a total grant amount of CAD 11,965 (approximately 282,800 Thai baht).

This research grant reflects the research capacity of the faculty at the School of Languages and General Education and supports their academic role in generating valuable knowledge that benefits society at both national and international levels.

SOLGEN Holds Annual Seminar for Fiscal Year 2026 to Strengthen Staff Capacity and Drive the Organization Toward Its Goals

The School of Languages and General Education (SOLGEN), Walailak University (WU), organized the “Annual Workshop and Seminar of the School of Languages and General Education for Fiscal Year 2026” from 29–31 October 2025 at Deevana Plaza Ao Nang Hotel, Krabi Province. The event was presided over by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Pragasit Sitthitikul, Dean of the School of Languages and General Education, with the participation of the school’s administrators, faculty members, and supporting staff.

The seminar aimed to communicate the school’s strategic direction and operational plan for fiscal year 2026, enhance participants’ knowledge of modern teaching and learning approaches, and provide a platform for professional exchange and collaboration to ensure the school’s development keeps pace with the rapidly changing digital era.

The three-day event featured a variety of activities, including:

A presentation on the school’s strategic roadmap by the SOLGEN Executive
A lecture on “Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL)” by Asst.Prof. Piyachat Suongtee
A lecture on “Integrating Al into Teaching: A Practical Approach” by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Pragasit Sitthitikul
A lecture on “Application of AI in Higher Education Teaching and Learning” by Aj.Suthira Thongkao
A lecture on “AI in the L2 Classroom: Insights from Pronunciation and Fluency Tools” by Dr. Simon Moxon

In addition, the seminar included discussion and team-building sessions that allowed participants to share experiences, express opinions, and strengthen interpersonal connections—fostering unity and collaboration within the school.

The seminar successfully enhanced staff understanding of SOLGEN’s strategic goals, while encouraging a shared sense of responsibility in driving the school forward. It also cultivated a warm and collaborative working atmosphere, marking a strong and promising start to the school’s operations in the 2026 fiscal year.

Summary of Research Publications in October 2025

The School of Languages and General Education has research publications that were accepted for publication and published in August, consisting of 5 papers, as follows:

Manuscript title “Representation of Prostitutes in Thai Songs, 2019–2024”
written by Aj. Krisada Kantichol (EIC) and co-authored by Dr. Chutacaphat Rattanaphan (FA), School of Education, and Aj. Kawinsara Sudjai (CA), School of Liberal Arts, Walailak University, has been accepted for publication in “Cogent Arts & Humanities” on Scopus Index, Q1 (88th percentile)
Manuscript title “Conceptual Metaphors of Himmapan Avatars in Thai”
written by Aj. Methus Siriwat (CA) and co-authored by Narongkan Rodsap (FA), Naresuan University (Thailand), and Dr. Satit Leelathawornchai (CA), Utah Tech University (USA), and Umawan Chart-iyaranont (CA), Hatyai University (Thailand), has been accepted for publication in “Scientific Culture” on Scopus Index, Q1 (98th percentile)
Manuscript title “The Representation of Southern Thai Women in Female Artists’ Songs: A Case Study of Ratchanok Suwannaket”
written by Aj. Krisada Kantichol (FA) and co-authored by Aj. Kawinsara Sudjai (CA), School of Liberal Arts, and Dr. Chutacaphat Rattanaphan (CA), School of Education, Walailak University, has been accepted for publication in “Scientific Culture” on Scopus Index, Q1 (98th percentile)
Manuscript title “Transcultural Ancestors and the Politics of Memory: Comparative Rituals in Thailand and Mexico”
written by Aj. Kanokkarn Mueangkaew (CA) and co-authored by Aj. Thachamon Kamlangkuea (FA), Education Program, Faculty of Education, Thaksin University (Phattalung Campus), and Tashi Wangmoc (CA), Royal Thimphu College, Royal University of Bhutan, Bhutan, has been accepted for publication in “Scientific Culture” on Scopus Index, Q1 (98th percentile)
Manuscript title “News regarding the sexual behavior of Thai artists: A study on hedging in the Thai language, exploring deviations from online headlines”
written by Aj. Krisada Kantichol (FA) and co-authored by Aj.Pavirasa Praditsorn (CA), has been accepted for publication in “Scientific Culture” on Scopus Index, Q1 (98th percentile)

SOLGEN Showcases “AI for Student Services: SOLGEN Connect – The SOLGEN Official Line Initiative.” at the Innovative Student Development Event

On September 29–30, 2025, the Student Affairs Division, School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, received a certificate from Ms. Waraporn Rungtrakan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), in recognition of its selection to present an innovative student development project for the year 2025. The event was organized by MHESI under the theme “Student Development in the AI Era: The Future Challenges.”

The Assistant Dean for Student Affairs presented the project titled “AI for Student Services: SOLGEN Connect – The SOLGEN Official Line Initiative.” This innovation leverages the SOLGEN Line Official platform as a key tool for communication, public relations, counseling, and as a centralized hub for student services. The platform was designed to be easily accessible, convenient to use, and aligned with the lifestyle of students in the digital age.

This participation not only highlighted the university’s innovative achievements but also provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and experiences with universities across the country. The aim was to jointly explore approaches to enhance student potential in line with 21st-century skills and to adapt to the rapid global transformation driven by AI. Notably, the project was one of only 30 initiatives selected for presentation from more than 300 submissions nationwide.

SOLGEN and USM jointly held a discussion and knowledge exchange on language and culture under the theme “Same Same but Different.”

On the morning of 29 September 2025, the School of Languages and General Education (SOLGEN), Walailak University, led a group of students to visit the School of Languages, Literacies and Translation, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, Malaysia.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by En. Azril Ali, Deputy Dean for Academic, Career & International Affairs, who also gave an introduction to USM and its academic programs. His session helped Walailak University students gain a deeper understanding of the institution and establish academic linkages between the two universities before moving into the discussion activities.
The highlight of the program was a discussion and knowledge exchange on language and culture under the theme “Same Same but Different.” Students and the Deputy Dean engaged in lively conversations about English language teaching approaches, strategies for skill development, and classroom activities that foster communication and creative learning.
In addition, En. Azril Ali shared his insights on the challenges of English language teaching in multicultural classrooms—where diversity in culture, ethnicity, and religion means that students bring different backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. He emphasized the importance of designing teaching activities that align with such contexts while creating an inclusive learning atmosphere for everyone.
The discussion was vibrant and interactive. Students had the opportunity to practice English communication, share ideas, ask questions, compare differences, and identify common ground that could inspire future teaching and learning practices. To further strengthen the friendship and collaboration, USM hosted a welcome luncheon, deepening ties between the two institutions.
Walailak University would like to express its sincere appreciation to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the School of Languages, Literacies and Translation, especially En. Azril Ali, for the warm welcome and generous support. This event marked a valuable step toward expanding academic collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two universities in the years to come.

SOLGEN and UUM co-organized a forum discussion on “Leadership Empowerment and Development: Global Cultural Exchange”

On September 27, 2025, the Student Affairs Office of the School of Languages and General Education (SOLGEN) led 10 Walailak University students to Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), where they joined 8 student representatives from the School of Education Student Club to co-organize a Forum Discussion on the topic “Leadership Empowerment and Development: Global Cultural Exchange” from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

During the forum, students from both institutions exchanged ideas, shared their visions for jointly advancing their universities, and discussed their experiences in organizing activities to develop 21st-century skills and improve English proficiency. They also proposed future student collaboration initiatives, such as:

English development through Play-Based Learning,

Edutainment forums,

Online storytelling competitions,

An International Volunteer Camp hosted by Walailak University, and

Inviting Universiti Utara Malaysia students to serve as facilitators in Walailak University’s Pre-English Program in 2026.

The event was conducted smoothly, with students actively exchanging ideas and expressing strong interest in expanding joint activities in the future.

SONGEN congratulates its faculty members who have been recognized in the World’s Top 2% Scientists List 2025.

The School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, proudly congratulates

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Budi Waluyo
Asst. Prof. Dr. Mark B. Ulla

for being recognized in the World’s Top 2% Scientists List 2025, as ranked by Stanford University and Elsevier.

This achievement marks a great honor for our school and Walailak University, highlighting the international impact and contribution of our faculty members in research and academia.

Warmest congratulations to both of you on this prestigious recognition!

SOLGEN Volunteers Bring Empowerment & Learning to Ban Takhian Dam

From 27–28 September 2025, Walailak University’s SOLGEN Volunteer Program brought together students, lecturers, and the Ban Takhian Dam community for a transformative two-day experience!

The event involved 15 student volunteers from diverse academic backgrounds—Informatics, Veterinary Science, Medical Technology, and Business—and from countries including Myanmar, China, and Thailand. They were joined by 13 lecturers and staff from Thailand, South Africa, Bhutan, the Philippines, the UK, the US, Australia, and Myanmar.

Volunteers taught English to children and adults, helped translate restaurant menus, and engaged in cultural exchange activities like Poetry Under the Coconut Tree and Beach Talks. The program culminated in a joyful English play performed by the students, showcasing their learning and teamwork.

Students shared that the experience not only enhanced their teaching skills but also strengthened their confidence and sense of purpose. One volunteer said, “Teaching the children and learning from the community gave me confidence and purpose. I realized that volunteering is not only about giving but also about growing.” Another added, “Working with children and seeing them perform their English play was incredibly rewarding. It made me feel that our efforts truly made a difference.”

Community members expressed overwhelming appreciation, noting that the program’s support in English learning, bilingual resources, and collaborative activities would have lasting benefits for both the school and the local economy.

Program Director Anggi Suharja, who also founded the School Under the Coconut Tree, said:

“This is not the end, but a door opened for Ban Takhian Dam… the beginning of many more days to learn from one another and to empower one another.”

A huge thank you to all volunteers, lecturers, and community members who made this program a success!

SOLGEN organized a study visit on examination and academic management at the Office of Educational Affairs, Kasetsart University.

Executives and staff members from the School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, organized a study visit on examination and academic management at the Office of Educational Affairs (OEA), Kasetsart University.

The Executives, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pragasit Sitthitikul, Dean of the School of Languages and General Education, together with 13 Executives and staff members, visited to learn about online language testing management and academic service operations at the Office of Educational Affairs (OEA). The visit took place on September 19, 2025, at the Kattaleeya Meeting Room, Rapee Sakrik Building.

The Executives and staff members were warmly welcomed by Dr. Neranuch Pachanatip, Director of the Office of Educational Affairs (OEA), and Dr. Jitti Niramitranon, Deputy Director, along with division heads, assistant directors, and staff from the Academic Services Division. The Kasetsart University team shared insights into their administrative practices and operational procedures, followed by a guided tour of the online examination facilities for Walk-in Exams and the language and skills assessment management system at the Chongrak KULAM Examination Room, Central Classroom Building 1.

This study visit also served as a meaningful platform to strengthen academic collaboration between the School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, and the Office of Educational Affairs (OEA), Kasetsart University, fostering continued partnership and knowledge exchange between the two institutions.

SOLGEN Hosts GE Day: Beyond the Algorithm (GE Got Talent)

The General Education Department, under the School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, organized GE Day: Beyond the Algorithm (GE Got Talent) on September 17, 2025, at the ground floor lobby of the Prof.Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong Building (ST). The event was filled with creativity, energy, and an atmosphere of excitement.

The highlight of the day was a special lecture by Dr. Taneth Ruangrajitpakorn from the Artificial Intelligence Research Group, National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), on the topic “Humans in the AI Era: Living and Growing Together.” The talk offered valuable perspectives on adaptation and progress in today’s digital society.

In addition, the event featured a talent competition under the theme Beyond the Algorithm (GE Got Talent), providing students with an opportunity to showcase their skills, creativity, and talents. Other activities included exhibitions of students’ works from general education courses, knowledge-enhancing games, and interactive activities with prizes. The lively atmosphere throughout the event reflected the enthusiastic participation of students, who gained both knowledge and enjoyment in equal measure.

Special thanks to the Division of Corporate Communication, Walailak University, for providing the photographs.