Mae Fah Luang University Hosts International Festival 2026: Bridging Cultures and Cultivating Global Citizens for a Sustainable Future

Mae Fah Luang University (MFU), led by the Global Relations Division (GRD) in collaboration with embassies, educational institutions, and international partners proudly hosted the MFU International Festival 2026. Held from 16–18 September 2026, the three-day landmark event advanced MFU’s strategic vision of becoming a leading university in ASEAN with international recognition, striving for well-being and a sustainable future. 

Organised under the theme "Bridging Cultures, Building Global Citizens (Zero Waste)," the festival brought together local high school students, university faculty, Chiang Rai residents, and esteemed international delegates. The initiative aimed to foster intercultural understanding and global citizenship; expand international collaboration and educational opportunities; and strengthen the influential roles of both Mae Fah Luang University and Chiang Rai Province on the regional and global stage. 

In her remarks, Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Vice President of Mae Fah Luang University stated that “At Mae Fah Luang University, internationalisation is about more than just university partnerships or studying abroad. It is about preparing our students to understand diverse perspectives, communicate across cultures, and collaborate in a world without borders. We do not just want to produce knowledgeable graduates; we strive to cultivate open-minded, compassionate, and responsible global citizens.”

Dr. Romyen highlighted that MFU’s commitment to internationalisation is reflected in its diverse campus, which is home to nearly 2,000 international students from over 54 countries and more than 100 international staff members. Together, they create a vibrant ecosystem that prepares the community to navigate a rapidly changing world. 
The official grand opening ceremony took place on 18 September 2026 at the MFU Indoor Stadium. Distinguished guests included Mr. Rujtisak Rangsi, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai Province; Mr. Wanchai Jongsutthanamanee, Mayor of Chiang Rai City; Mr. Rajeev Tandon, Vice Consul of India in Chiang Mai; and Asst. Prof. Dr. Sahatthaya Sittiwiset, Vice President of Chiang Rai Rajabhat University. 

During the ceremony, Mr. Norasak Suksomboon, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai Province, delivered an address on the province's key role as a “gateway to the region and to the world,” seamlessly connecting people, trade, tourism, education, and culture. Adding to the diplomatic discourse, Mr. Pranav Ganesh, Consul of the Republic of India in Chiang Mai, presented a special lecture titled "Chiang Rai–India: New Opportunities in a Changing World." 

Designed to elevate MFU’s global profile, the festival provided robust academic and study-abroad resources. Participants explored educational exhibitions hosted by the Mekong-Australia Partnership Support Unit, the British Council, Fulbright Thailand, Campus France Thailand, the Taiwan Education Center Thailand, and CRRU’s TOEFL/IELTS Test Center.

The event also served as a platform for critical multi-sectoral discussions. Highlights included:
•    Environmental Governance: A panel titled “From Flooding to Water Contamination — Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future,” featuring representatives from government, civil society, and academia discussing water governance and climate adaptation.

•    International Education: A seminar on 'Empowering Global Citizens through International Education,' where global organisation representatives exchanged perspectives on scholarship opportunities and the key qualities needed for the next generation.

•    Student Voices: The 'Global Voices' panel, which allowed MFU international students to share their personal insights on culture, identity, and global citizenship.

Beyond academics, the festival celebrated human connection through holistic well-being and the arts. Participants engaged in student-centered activities such as the Personal Color & MBTI Workshop, the "Detox Jai" Workshop for mental relaxation, and a Collage Art Workshop focused on emotional expression. Cultural interactive sessions featured Angklung and Tari Indang Dance, Chinese Art, a Young Curators Lab, and an international film screening.

The vibrant atmosphere culminated in the main event spaces, which featured dynamic open spaces specifically designated for students to showcase their creative works and demonstrate their entrepreneurship skills, English and Myanmar speech competitions, a "Chinese Got Talent" contest, martial arts demonstrations, and captivating cultural performances from MFU’s diverse international student body. A standout moment was the "Fashion Diplomacy & MFU Colours" fashion show, which explored attire as a diplomatic tool before students took to the runway in traditional costumes from around the world. Attendees also enjoyed collaborative musical performances by the MFU Band and an Indonesian Angklung troupe, while exploring the "From Local Food to Better Life" seminar and food booths featuring authentic cuisine from 16 different countries. 

In keeping with the festival’s commitment to sustainability, the entire event was organised under the “Zero Waste” concept. This initiative reminded participants that being a global citizen also means taking active responsibility for our shared environment. Ultimately, the MFU International Festival 2026 was far more than an exhibition of cultures; it was a dynamic, collaborative space for the people of Chiang Rai and the international community to learn, connect, and broaden their worldviews together.