Suan Dusit University plays an active and socially responsible role in supporting communities affected by disasters, guided by a people-centred development approach and a strong commitment to community resilience. Through its mission of academic service and civic engagement, the University integrates humanitarian support into its core institutional responsibilities, particularly in times of social and environmental crisis.
One clear example of this role is the “Warm Blanket for the Heart” initiative, organised by the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management in collaboration with the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Red Cross Chapter and the Thai Red Cross Society. The initiative aimed to provide essential relief supplies, including blankets and daily necessities, to communities in southern Thailand affected by natural disasters. This activity demonstrates the University’s function as a civic university that responds directly and meaningfully to the urgent needs of disaster-affected populations.
The initiative was implemented through broad participation by university executives, academic staff, administrative personnel, and students. All stakeholders were involved in the humanitarian assistance process, including resource mobilisation, donation collection, sorting, packaging, and coordination for delivery. This participatory approach ensured that assistance reached vulnerable communities in a timely and context-appropriate manner, while also strengthening collaboration with external humanitarian organisations.
Beyond immediate disaster relief, the initiative contributed to post-disaster recovery by restoring morale, enhancing a sense of security, and reinforcing social solidarity among affected communities. These outcomes are essential components of long-term recovery and resilience-building following disasters. At the same time, student participation in the initiative fostered experiential learning related to disaster management, community engagement, and sustainable development, thereby strengthening social responsibility and civic awareness among future graduates.
At the institutional level, Suan Dusit University acts as a social facilitator, connecting academic knowledge, material resources, and external partnerships to support coordinated disaster response efforts. Collaboration with humanitarian organisations improved operational efficiency, reduced duplication of efforts, and enhanced the overall effectiveness of community support mechanisms. This collaborative model reflects the University’s contribution to building inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities.
In conclusion, the “Warm Blanket for the Heart” initiative constitutes clear direct evidence of Suan Dusit University’s commitment to supporting communities affected by disasters. Through structured humanitarian outreach, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and community-focused engagement, the University demonstrates its concrete contribution to disaster risk reduction, relief, and recovery, fully addressing the intent and expectations of SDG 11.5.1.