PSU Communication Sciences Creates a “Think–Write–Develop” Platform Empowering Deep South Storytellers to Bring Local Stories to the Global Screen
The Faculty of Communication Sciences, Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Pattani Campus, organized “Deep South Film NextGen: Screenwriting Development to Elevate Local Issues to the Global Stage” from 22–26 August 2026 at TR Rock Hill Hotel in Hat Yai, Songkhla.
Supported by the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture, the program provided a creative space for aspiring storytellers to transform local perspectives, cultural identities, and community issues into compelling screenplays through a structured development process, with the potential to reach wider national and international audiences.
The initiative also contributes to PSU’s SO5 strategy, which focuses on advancing an innovation-driven economy, the creative economy, and high-value tourism. The opening ceremony on 22 August 2026 was presided over by Assistant Professor Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of Prince of Songkla University, while Assistant Professor Dr. Arthitaya Somlok, Assistant Dean for Social Mission, Faculty of Communication Sciences, welcomed participants and outlined the objectives of the program.
Throughout the five-day workshop, participants gained hands-on experience across the screenwriting process—from identifying stories and issues worth telling to developing concepts and story structures, writing scripts and dialogue, and participating in table readings and peer reviews. These sessions allowed participants to hear their scripts brought to life, exchange perspectives, and receive constructive feedback from experts and fellow participants before refining their work.
The program featured experienced professionals from the film industry, including Boonsong Nakphoo, independent film director and screenwriter, and Teerawat Rujintham, Director of Photography (DoP). They were joined by lecturers from PSU’s Faculty of Communication Sciences in sharing professional insights, screenwriting techniques, and individual guidance with participants throughout the program.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants presented their developed screenplays through pitching and showcase sessions, bringing together the full creative journey—from discovering a story and developing an idea to writing, receiving feedback, revising, and presenting the final concept. The program also provided opportunities to build connections among emerging creators, film professionals, and others interested in the creative industry.
Deep South Film NextGen represents another important platform for transforming the cultural assets, identities, and diverse stories of Thailand’s Deep South into creative works with broader potential. By strengthening storytelling and screenwriting skills, the initiative helps local voices communicate their stories with greater impact, contributes to the growth of the creative economy, and creates new opportunities for stories from the Deep South to reach national and international audiences.