On 18–20 August 2025, Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) organised the National Science Week 2025 under the theme “Science in Action for Sustainable Community.” The event served as a platform to promote scientific and technological knowledge among youth, students, and the general public, while encouraging the integration of science into sustainable community development.
The opening ceremony featured a tribute to King Mongkut (Rama IV), recognised as the “Father of Science in Thailand,” held at the C1 Building. The ceremony was presided over by Prof. Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Vice President, together with university executives, faculty members, students, and representatives from various organisations. This marked both an expression of gratitude for His Majesty’s contributions and the official commencement of Science Week.
Throughout the three-day event, a wide range of competitions and contests were held to encourage young people to showcase their scientific and technological potential. Highlights included a science speech contest, a science-imagination drawing contest, science project and creative invention competitions, a Smart & Sustainable Packaging Design Contest, a Northern Thai healthy food contest (for both students and the public), and a teaching media design competition for educators.
Additionally, a recycled fashion and invention contest was held to promote environmental awareness. This competition aimed not only to spark creativity and innovation but also to raise awareness of environmental sustainability. Participants showcased imaginative works combining art, aesthetics, and practical application—such as fashion made from plastic bottles and aluminum cans, and recycled inventions designed for real-world reuse.
Beyond competitions, the event featured exhibitions and hands-on science activities designed to inspire curiosity and engagement. These included exhibitions honouring the “Father of Science in Thailand” and the “Father of Technology,” the MFU for Sustainable Community showcase, and interactive experiments such as Chinese herbal tea brewing, the “Clean Hands, Healthy World” hygiene activity, Thai herbal inhaler demonstrations, “Mysterious in Science” puzzle challenges, wind-powered car testing, paper helicopters, and giant smoke-filled soap bubbles. These interactive sessions drew great interest from students and visitors, offering both fun and learning opportunities.
More than a scientific showcase, the Science Week emphasised creativity, public-mindedness, and responsibility toward society and the environment, aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Over the three days, the National Science Week 2025 at MFU welcomed more than 15,000 participants from 146 schools across Chiang Rai and neighboring provinces. The strong turnout underscored MFU’s role as a regional hub for science, technology, and innovation—empowering Thai youth with the skills and creativity needed to thrive in an innovative and sustainable future.
