On 28 March 2025, Burapha University,
in collaboration with the Center for SDG Research and Support (SDG Move), Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University, and the Office of the National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), organized a regional workshop to present key sustainable development challenges in the eastern region and gather input from stakeholders. The event was held at Thaothong 5 Conference Room, Burapha University, Chonburi Province, with participation from over 40 representatives from government agencies, the private sector, academia, and civil society.
This workshop was part of the “Provincial SDG Index Project,” which aims to identify area-based needs in science, research, and innovation (SRI) to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project uses quantitative indicators aligned with the SDGs, combined with inclusive stakeholder engagement at the local and regional levels.
As a co-host, Burapha University took an active role as a “University for Sustainable Development,” aligning with its Strategic Plan 2025–2028. In particular, Platform 3 : Sustainable Societal Development emphasizes the use of science and innovation to address social and environmental issues and to serve as a model organization for sustainability.
The objectives of this workshop were threefold :
1. To present data from the Provincial SDG Index.
2. To gather feedback from local stakeholders.
3. To discuss collaborative strategies for developing effective SRI mechanisms at the regional level.
This platform not only helped foster a shared understanding of the region’s development challenges but also served as a foundation for designing locally relevant mechanisms. The outcomes will inform pilot implementations and contribute to Thailand’s national Voluntary National Review (VNR), to be presented at the global level in 2025 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Swaminee Theerawut,
Vice President for Strategic Planning and Policy, on behalf of Burapha University, stated : “…Burapha University places great importance on creating value and fostering lasting change in eastern communities through research and innovation that responds directly to local needs. Public participation is the core of sustainable development in all dimensions…”
Furthermore, the activity reflects the university’s strong commitment to SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by promoting open, transparent processes that include all stakeholders in shaping sustainable regional development. It also aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering strategic collaborations among universities, government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to drive inclusive and resilient societies.
This initiative not only underscores Burapha University’s intellectual leadership but also highlights the power of collaboration to transform data into policy and knowledge into action, leading to genuine and lasting development at the local level — serving as a deep-rooted and far-reaching model for national and global progress.
