Throughout 2024, the Cultural Studies Center of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (RMUTL) and the Faculty of Arts and Architecture reaffirmed its dedication to preserving and promoting Lanna culture through more than 15 annual art and cultural activities. These initiatives embodied RMUTL’s vision of integrating education, tradition, and creativity in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of cultural preservation, public participation, and creative innovation. A major highlight of the year was the “Lanna Cultural Heritage Continuation Project”, organized in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of RMUTL’s founding, featuring a series of sacred rituals and performances — including the Wiang Ched Lin sacred water ceremony, chanting and blessing rituals, and a spectacular light and sound performance titled “From Wiang Ched Lin to the Land of Lanna”, symbolizing RMUTL’s two-decade journey of merging wisdom, art, and modern learning.
Another significant achievement was RMUTL’s participation in the Yi Peng Grand Krathong Procession 2024, held on November 16, 2024, under the concept “Chalerm Khwan Thosamaracha Sakkarthararamingrat Chakkraphat Rajamongkol”. The procession, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uthen Kamnan, Acting President of RMUTL, together with university executives and students, marched from Tha Phae Gate to Chiang Mai Municipality. The Krathong design drew inspiration from the auspicious 72nd birthday celebration of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, depicting Phaya Naga, the divine guardian of the Ping River, alongside the Seven Royal Treasures (Ratana)—emblems of prosperity, righteousness, and compassion. The grand float conveyed deep cultural and spiritual symbolism, honoring the King’s benevolence and celebrating the unity of the Thai people. RMUTL’s outstanding craftsmanship and creative interpretation earned the university First Runner-Up in the competition, exemplifying its excellence in traditional artistry, cultural storytelling, and collaborative creativity.
Additionally, RMUTL continued its mission of nurturing cultural awareness through notable performances such as the “Chalerm Khwan Suman Leela Sattathararamingrat” traditional Lanna dance on February 1, 2025, folk music performances by faculty members, and the annual Wai Kru and Phra Vishnukarma Worship Ceremony (July 26, 2024), promoting spiritual connection and respect for craftsmanship. Moreover, RMUTL alumni contributed to the Royal Commencement Ceremony on February 14, 2025, designing the stage under the theme “Dandin Thin Tham (Land, Place, and Dharma)”, blending art, philosophy, and environmental consciousness.
Through these cultural initiatives, RMUTL strengthens its role as a center for sustainable cultural preservation and creative education, advancing SDG-driven goals in public access to cultural experiences, heritage protection, green cultural production, and cross-sector collaboration between academia, community, and government institutions.
