Empowering the Next Generation: Mae Fah Luang University Hosts Regional National Science Week 2026

From 18 to 20 August 2026, Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) transformed into a hub of innovation as it hosted the “Regional National Science Week 2026.” Spearheaded by the Scientific and Technological Instruments Center (STIC) in collaboration with science-related schools, internal divisions, and network partners, the three-day event was held under the inspiring theme "Intelligence Science for a Sustainable Future".

The event commenced at the C1 Lecture Building with a floral tribute before the royal portrait of King Mongkut, the Father of Thai Science, honouring His Majesty's foundational role in advancing Thai science. Asst. Prof. Dr. Natthawut Yodsuwan, Vice President of MFU, presided over the ceremony, joined by university executives, staff, students, and delegations from schools in Chiang Rai and the upper northern region.

During the official opening ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siam Popluechai, Director of STIC, outlined the event's core objectives. Co-hosted with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the event aimed to immerse students, educators, and the public in hands-on learning across science, technology, and health sciences. By showcasing the university's latest advancements, the initiative sought to inspire future studies and demonstrate how science can be leveraged to serve society, promote well-being, and build a sustainable world.

In his opening remarks, Asst. Prof. Dr. Natthawut Yodsuwan emphasised the transformative power of the event. He noted that the exhibitions and activities were designed not only to sharpen technical skills but to instill a scientific mindset—one that drives creative innovation, enhances quality of life, and delivers lasting benefits to society. 

The vibrant three-day event featured a diverse array of engaging activities, categorized into competitive challenges and immersive exhibitions:

Competitions & Contests

•    Cosmetic Science and Beauty Quiz Competition, organised by the School of Cosmetic Science
•    Food Science and Technology Quiz Competition, organised by the School of Agro-Industry
•    Speech Contest under the theme “Intelligence Science for a Sustainable Future,” organised by the School of Liberal Arts
•    Scientific Imagination Drawing Contest, organised by the School of Science
•    Future Smart Packaging Challenge Design Contest (Upper Secondary Level), organised by the School of Agro-Industry
•    Science and Technology Skills Competition, organised by the School of Science
•    Scientific Imagination Drawing Contest on the topic “Upcycling Agricultural Waste into Cosmetic Products,” organised by the Center of Excellence in Natural Products Innovation
•    Science and Technology Innovation Contest, organised by the School of Science
•    Healthy Northern Local Food Tray (Khantoke) Contest for Upper Secondary School Level and the General Public, organised by the School of Agro-Industry
•    Science Project Competition, organised by the School of Science
•    Recycled Fashion and Innovation Contest for Environmental Conservation, organised by the School of Health Science
•    Science and Technology Teaching Media Competition, organised by the School of Science

Interactive Exhibitions & Open Houses

• Cutting-Edge Tech: Robot and IoT Technology, Modern Programming & AI 6.0, and Modern Games & Virtual Reality.
• School of Science Open House: Featuring the Bio-Glow Forest Model, Haunted Glow Lab, and DIY Hologram.
• Specialised Displays: ‘Explore China Future’, Secrets of Fungi, ‘Fun Fun’ Dental, World of Tea and Coffee, and Technology & Innovation for Natural Crisis Management.
• Royal Exhibitions: Showcases honouring the Father of Thai Science, the Father of Thai Technology and Innovation, the Mother of Biodiversity Protection, and the Mekong Fabric Bonds Exhibition Honouring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.

Ultimately, Regional National Science Week 2026 reflects MFU’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders. As an institution in the Greater Mekong Subregion, MFU remains steadfast in its mission to serve as an educational hub—developing human capital, translating research into real-world solutions, and promoting environmental conservation to ensure a sustainable future for the region.