Suan Dusit University (SDU) is firmly committed to fulfilling its mission as an institution dedicated to sustainability by extending its knowledge and learning opportunities beyond the boundaries of the campus. The university believes that sustainable development cannot be achieved solely through classroom instruction; rather, it requires a process of shared learning between the university and the community (Community Engagement) to foster awareness, empowerment, and inspiration through Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) accessible to all.
In 2024, SDU implemented a range of diverse Educational Outreach initiatives designed to transfer sustainability-related knowledge to a broad audience—including local communities, educators, alumni, and the general public. These initiatives not only enhanced understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG Integration) but also served as essential mechanisms for promoting Lifelong Learning for Sustainability, a guiding principle deeply embedded in the university’s educational philosophy.
A notable example of this outreach is the Innovative Research Project on Promoting Community-Based Gastronomy Tourism in Suphanburi Province under the BCGs Model, conducted by faculty members from the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. The project exemplifies the practical application of sustainability concepts through the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) framework. It supports the development of sustainable gastronomic tourism by integrating local agricultural knowledge, culture, and environmental stewardship. Community members actively participated in all phases—from learning and co-designing innovations to managing local resources for maximum benefit. This initiative represents both Community-Based Learning and the promotion of a Green Economy, directly supporting SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
At the same time, the Faculty of Science and Technology implemented the Project to Reduce Health Risks from Environmental Problems among Children, Youth, and the Elderly, in collaboration with the Kanlapaphruek Community in Bangkok. This project emphasized practical and participatory learning (Learning by Doing) under the theme “Low-Carbon Community for Healthy Living through Waste Separation Practices.” It promoted Environmental Health Literacy, encouraging behavioral change in waste management, energy conservation, and urban greening. Through workshops, demonstrations, and educational materials such as community manuals and infographics, participants gained the capacity to apply Low-Carbon Lifestyle principles in their daily lives. The project transformed the university into a hub for Knowledge Exchange for Sustainability, bridging academic expertise with real-world community solutions in alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Further extending its outreach, the Faculty of Management Science organized the “Low Carbon Tourism” Seminar in collaboration with government agencies, private sectors, and the local community of Plai Bang Subdistrict, Nonthaburi Province. This initiative created a learning platform that promoted the development of Eco-Tourism and sustainable urban management. It exemplified Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships where academic, public, and private actors co-developed strategies to enhance local economic resilience and environmental responsibility, supporting SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Beyond community-based activities, SDU has also cultivated public learning spaces (Public Learning Spaces) that allow people from various backgrounds to share knowledge and inspiration freely. One of the most impactful initiatives is the “Suan Dusit Talk”, an ongoing series of informal discussions designed to connect knowledge, experience, and creativity among students, alumni, and the general public. The 204th session, titled “From the Competition Field to My Dream Restaurant,” featured Chef Ged (Wisaka Rawijan)—an alumna of the School of Culinary Arts and owner of Fine Cuisine BKK—who shared her journey from culinary competitions to establishing a sustainable restaurant business. Conducted in a Hybrid Learning format (onsite and online via Zoom), this session served as an example of Alumni Engagement for the SDGs, linking alumni expertise with student and community learning.
The dialogue not only inspired participants to pursue careers with social and environmental consciousness (Responsible Career Path) but also reinforced the importance of the Circular Economy and Responsible Consumption principles in business development. It aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting accessible and inclusive learning for all.
Taken together, these activities illustrate SDU’s transformation into more than a conventional academic institution—it has become a University for Lifelong Learning and Sustainability, transferring classroom knowledge into real-world contexts while cultivating sustainable mindsets and behaviors across society. By engaging local communities, alumni networks, and the wider public, Suan Dusit University has established itself as a model for Educational Outreach for the SDGs, fully meeting the Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings criteria: Existence of Outreach, Evidence Provided, and Public Availability.
Through collaborative and inclusive learning, SDU continues to create meaningful social impact and drive Thailand toward a sustainable future grounded in education, participation, and collective responsibility.
🔗 Publicly Available Evidence
- Suan Dusit University. (2024). Innovative Research Project on Promoting Community-Based Gastronomy Tourism in Suphanburi Province under the BCGs Model.
https://www.dusit.ac.th/home/2024/1389414.html - Suan Dusit University. (2024). Project to Reduce Health Risks from Environmental Problems among Children, Youth, and the Elderly.
https://www.dusit.ac.th/home/2024/1362036.html - Suan Dusit University. (2024). Seminar on “Low Carbon Tourism: Eco-Innovative Approaches for Sustainable Travel.”
https://www.dusit.ac.th/home/2024/1314234.html - Suan Dusit University. (2023). “Suan Dusit Talk” Session 204(47): “From the Competition Field to My Dream Restaurant.”
https://www.dusit.ac.th/home/2023/1181784.html