MFU Joins Chiang Rai Pride 2026 Press Conference to Foster an Inclusive Society

Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) representatives, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President, alongside Chinavorn Teekawattanakorn, President of the Student Union, and representatives from the MFU Human Rights Club, attended the press conference for "Chiang Rai Pride 2026." 

The event was presided over by Mr. Norasak Suksomboon, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai Province, alongside various public and private sector partners, in a collective effort to advance a society that embraces gender diversity and promotes mutual respect across Chiang Rai province.

Scheduled for 14 June 2026, Chiang Rai Pride 2026 will be held under the theme "Be You, Be Proud, Be Pride." Main highlights include: a parade marching into Central Chiang Rai, a Pride Market open to community entrepreneurs and vulnerable groups, activity booths, stage performances, and the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with national networks.

The event is driven by three core agendas: upholding human rights and human dignity, stimulating the local economy and tourism, and building a creative, inclusive city that embraces diversity in all dimensions.

During the preparatory meeting, MFU presented five concrete gender-inclusive policies currently implemented on campus:

• Permitting students to dress according to their gender identity
• Allowing students to freely choose their on-campus roommates
• Recognising the marital status of LGBTQ+ employees and providing equal spousal welfare benefits
• Providing gender-inclusive restrooms on campus
• Integrating gender-focused courses such as Gender Economics and Gender and Development into the academic curriculum.

MFU also proposed a pathway toward positioning Chiang Rai as a "safe space for all differences." This vision draws on the province's existing strengths in ethnic and cultural diversity, as well as its vibrant international student community from across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). MFU emphasised that these foundations provide a solid base to extend acceptance toward gender diversity, helping to establish Chiang Rai as a city that genuinely embraces every identity on the global stage.

"Mae Fah Luang University is committed to building an inclusive environment that prepares our students to become capable global citizens who respect the dignity of others. We are proud to support Chiang Rai Pride 2026," stated Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont.

MFU has consistently pursued its Well-being and Sustainable Future policy, aiming to create a safe and open learning environment for all, regardless of gender identity or cultural background. The university’s active participation in this initiative reflects its role as an institution that fosters understanding and respectful coexistence — ultimately contributing to Chiang Rai's emergence as an internationally recognised city of equality.