Songkhla Nakarin news

Prince of Songkla University (PSU) hosted the 3rd/2026 Traveling Meeting of the Student Development Committee under the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT) from 3–5 September 2026, under the theme “University for Mankind.”

The meeting brought together university executives, student affairs professionals, and student leaders from higher education institutions across Thailand to exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices in student development. The goal is to prepare a new generation with not only knowledge and skills, but also integrity, public-mindedness, and social responsibility.

The opening ceremony was held on 3 September 2026 at the PSU International Convention Center, Hat Yai Campus, where Assistant Professor Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of PSU, welcomed participants and presented PSU’s guiding philosophy of “Our Soul is for the Benefit of Mankind.”

The President highlighted PSU’s longstanding commitment to serving society, inspired by the words of Prince Mahidol of Songkla: “Let consideration of personal gain take second place to the overall benefit of mankind.” This principle has become part of the University’s culture and PSU DNA, shaping its work in education, research, healthcare, community development, and public service.

This commitment is also reflected in PSU’s response during times of crisis, from the 2004 tsunami and the COVID-19 pandemic to major floods in Southern Thailand. During the recent severe flooding in Hat Yai, PSU mobilized faculty members, staff, and students to operate an emergency shelter for 11 days, supporting more than 15,000 people with food, accommodation, safety, and healthcare services.

Associate Professor Dr. Thanita Lerdpornkulrat, Chair of the CUPT Student Development Committee, emphasized that universities today must go beyond academic knowledge and professional skills. They must also prepare students to become responsible citizens who understand the value of living together and can use their knowledge to create meaningful benefits for communities and society.

Throughout the three-day program, participants joined activities focusing on student volunteerism, public-mindedness, disaster response, and community engagement. The program also included discussions on developing students’ social responsibility amid global challenges, as well as a Hat Yai site visit to learn about the city’s experience and recovery from natural disasters.

Participants will also explore Songkhla’s historical and cultural assets, discuss the role of students in advancing the Soft Power of Songkhla, and visit Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to exchange perspectives on student services and welfare at the international level.

By hosting the meeting, PSU reinforces its role as a “University for Mankind”—using education, knowledge, and the potential of young people to create positive social impact, while working with higher education networks to develop students who are ready to respond to future challenges and contribute to sustainable development.