RMUTL (Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna) opens multifaceted platforms to collaborate with various partners to ‘Drive the Transfer and Exchange of Knowledge to the Network of Local Farmers and Food Producers Throughout 2030.
RMUTL is committed to systematically and sustainably driving agricultural development through the process of knowledge transfer and connecting academic networks with communities comprehensively. A clear example of this ongoing effort for more than 10 years is the work in the Royal Project, which focuses on research and development of local plant varieties at the Chakrapan Penchiri Plant Development Center and other project areas scattered throughout the region. This initiative aims to meet the needs of farmers, food producers, and consumers by improving crop varieties that are suitable for the local ecosystem, while also integrating modern technology into agriculture within the context of the food supply chain. The university recognizes the important role of stakeholders, particularly local farmers who are at the upstream of the food supply chain, serving as producers of agricultural raw materials. Food producers, located in the midstream, process these raw materials into food products before distributing them to central markets, shops, and consumers, including ensuring sustainable management at the downstream level.
Accordingly, Mahanakorn University of Technology (MUT) is committed to driving agricultural development in a systematic and sustainable manner through the process of knowledge transfer and comprehensive connections between academic networks and communities. This commitment is particularly evident in ongoing efforts for over 10 years in the Royal Project, which focuses on research and development of indigenous plant varieties at the Chakrapan Pen Siri Plant Breeding Development Center and various other project areas throughout the region. This project aims to respond to the needs of farmers, food producers, and consumers by improving plant varieties suitable for the ecological environment, alongside the application of modern technology in agriculture.
The acquired knowledge has led to a comprehensive knowledge transfer process covering various dimensions, including the provision of technology clinics for in-depth consultations, training workshops on modern agricultural innovations, such as smart greenhouse cultivation using the Internet of Things (IoT), and the Nan Sandbox Project that integrates knowledge through the Agroforestry-Pharmacy Center, which serves as a collaborative learning space with farmers. Additionally, MUT has established a cooperative network with various partner agencies.
Notably, MUT is responsible for a highly significant mission by continuously participating in the Royal Project, which is a royal initiative, particularly the “Chakrapan Pen Siri Plant Breeding Development Center Project.” This national project aims to benefit the Thai people, Thai farmers, and Thai food producers across all regions, under the strong operation and oversight of the royal initiative planning group at MUT. The results of these efforts are abundantly evident. For instance, on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, a report titled “Progress Report on the Operations of the Chakrapan Pen Siri Plant Breeding Development Center Project for January – May 2023″ was published to the public on the MUT website (https://www.rmutl.ac.th/news/22145-รายงานความก้าวหน้าการดำเนินงาน-โครงการศูนย์พัฒนาพั) to summarize what MUT has accomplished in support of the royal initiative project for the year 2023 at the Chakrapan Pen Siri Plant Breeding Development Center, including three projects: 1) The project to maintain plant varieties granted royal names: Chakrapan Tomato 1, Chakrapan Tomato 2, Lanna Delicious Long Beans, Lanna Stardust Pumpkin, Lanna Yellow Mustard Greens, and Lanna Diamond Eggplant; 2) The vegetable seed production project for 2023; and 3) The production project for short and long cucumbers and Chakrapan tomato plant varieties.”
This project is of national importance, receiving significant attention from the head of state, the royal family, and the government. The University Council, led by the president and the executive team of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (RMUTL), reported on the progress of the Chakkraphan Pensiri Plant Breeding Development Project for the year 2023 on December 18, 2023. Present at the event were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jaturathit Thongprohn, acting president of RMUTL, along with university executives, who welcomed Mom Rajawongse Pensiri Chakkraphan, Mr. Parwit Boonmee, Ms. Chantana Vicharat, and Mr. Natthapol Jaroensuk from the Chaipattana Foundation. They visited to follow up on the project’s progress and toured the seed storage room, seed production fields, and discussed the implementation strategies of the Chakkraphan Pensiri Plant Breeding Development Project at the Agricultural Technology Research Institute of RMUTL in Lampang province, aiming for sustainable benefits.
Throughout 2030, the university plans to expand its efforts according to the plan by organizing projects and activities, including outreach to networks of farmers and local food producers to transfer knowledge and technology in various contexts. These include training in safe agriculture, the development of smart farms, research and knowledge transfer on avocados, and support for the development of safe food products. This reflects the university’s commitment to being a central organization, both stationary and proactive, for learning and developing a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG2) to achieve food security, improve the quality of life for farmers, and promote environmentally friendly agricultural innovations. Examples of implementation include:
The Food Innovation Excellence Research and Development Unit of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna invites community enterprises producing agricultural products to participate in the target processed agricultural product development activity.
The Food Innovation Excellence Research and Development Unit of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, in collaboration with the Industrial Promotion Center Region 1 of the Department of Industrial Promotion, is accepting applications from community enterprises producing food, beverages, and other agricultural products to join the target processed agricultural product development activity under the project “Upgrading Agricultural Products to Industrial Agriculture for the Fiscal Year 2023.”
Eligibility requirements are that the community enterprise must be registered as an OTOP (One Tambon One Product) producer (products targeted for development to increase added value include mangoes, pineapples, and longans) and must be a community enterprise operator in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Phrae, and Nan.
Participating community enterprises will receive knowledge transfer regarding trends in functional food products, development of food production and technology, innovations in agricultural product processing, marketing, consumer demand trends, in-depth consulting on product development and prototype packaging, basic nutritional value analysis, prototype product testing, marketing skills enhancement, and product development in digital marketing.
Applications are open from today until January 28, 2024, or until the slots are filled. There is no cost to participate. Interested parties can apply through the link: https://forms.gle/LLtRAyscV8E6wpPu5.
Chiang Rai Province
Joining as a platform for community engagement in agricultural areas, “Chiang Rai City Development Project Towards a 3D Happiness City.”
Starting from the beginning of the year, between January and February 2023, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna dispatched a working group from the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, led by Dr. Subin Jaita, a lecturer in the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (Chiang Rai). The team was sent to inspect safe agricultural areas for communities and localities under the supervision of the Chiang Rai Municipal Office. This was integrated with the Office of the Health Promotion Fund and the local administrative organizations (LAOs) as part of the ongoing project “Chiang Rai City Development Project Towards a 3D Happiness City.” This initiative aims to drive and achieve sustainable food safety and food security goals from upstream.
Additionally, there has been a positive response from local partner organizations, with participation from eight entities: 1) Mae Korn Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 2) Mae Yao Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 3) Rongwiang Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 4) Huay Chomphu Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 5) Pa-O Don Chai Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 6) Doi Hang Subdistrict Administrative Organization, 7) Rim Kok Subdistrict Administrative Organization, and 8) Ban Du Subdistrict Administrative Organization. This initiative aligns with the sustainability policies of Mr. Wanchai Chongsuthanamanee, the Mayor of Chiang Rai, who aims to promote and support local farmers in each administrative area to collaborate in organic and safe agricultural practices, ultimately supplying various food producers, such as community product sales centers and safe agricultural products in Chiang Rai.
Plant Breeding Project at the Chakrapan Pensiri Plant Breeding Development Center, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province
On August 25, 2023, Associate Professor Wichai Tipprasert, the Director of the Administrative Office at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Chiang Rai, along with his team, visited the Chakrapan Pensiri Plant Breeding Development Center in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province, to follow up on the results of the plant breeding project, which has successfully produced the following seeds: 1) Chakrapan Tomato 1 and 2, 2) Kale, 3) Lanna Yellow Mustard Green, 4) Garden Chili, 5) Lanna Bitter Eggplant, 6) Lanna Delicious Long Bean, and 7) Starry Pumpkin. Fresh produce, including Chakrapan Tomato 1, 2, and both short and long cucumbers, has also been produced. The plant breeding project at the Chakrapan Pensiri Plant Breeding Development Center has plans to distribute these seeds while providing knowledge on cultivation and care to farmers and communities affected by flooding during the rainy season. Additionally, fresh produce can be sold year-round.
Sharing Knowledge and Exchange on “Safe Food Production System” with Wang Pa Subdistrict Municipality, Lamphun Province
On Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 08:30 to 12:00 at the Residual Chemical Testing Building for Vegetables and Fruits in Chiang Rai Municipality, an activity was held as part of the ongoing “Development Project for Chiang Rai City as a 3D Happiness City” to conclude 2023. However, it marks the beginning of becoming a province and a prototype project for expanding knowledge to ensure food security and sustainable agriculture to neighboring provinces, such as Lamphun.
Assistant Professor Dr. Subin Chaita, a staff member from the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology and a representative of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, was invited to participate with Chiang Rai Municipality to welcome a study group from the Community Health Management Network Center of Wang Pa Subdistrict Municipality, Wiang Nong Long District, Lamphun Province, consisting of 80 people, who traveled to study and exchange knowledge regarding “Safe Food Production Systems (Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream).” The aim was to provide access to knowledge that would lead to capacity development and learning management in such systems, which is part of the cooperation network of Chiang Rai Municipality that aims to promote the transfer of knowledge, skills, and technology to local food producers. A representative from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna delivered lectures, provided information, conducted demonstrations, answered questions, and offered explanations in the transfer of basic technical knowledge regarding “Chemical Residue Testing in Vegetables and Fruits” to promote safe and sustainable food production.
This activity reflects the success of the “Development Project for Chiang Rai City as a 3D Happiness City,” which has been recognized as a model for the comprehensive development of a safe food system, integrating collaboration among Chiang Rai Municipality, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, and network partners since the beginning of 2023. It has done so without limitations on expanding results and can serve as a learning source for other local government organizations, marking a significant step towards developing a cooperative network at the regional level. It reinforces the role of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna as an educational institution aiming to create sustainable collaboration for communities through the systematic transfer of knowledge and technology for sustainable development in all areas of Thailand.
Chiang Mai Province
Proactive Training on “Raising Giant Freshwater Prawns in Earthen Ponds”: Techniques for Reducing Costs and Increasing Yields through Natural Methods
On February 6-7, 2023, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, led by Assistant Professor Pairoj Vorapojpanich, manager of the Technology Clinic, in collaboration with the Non-Formal Education Office of Wiang Phao Subdistrict and the Wiang Phao Subdistrict Municipality, Chiang Mai, organized a training and consulting project on “Raising Giant Freshwater Prawns in Earthen Ponds” at the Ban Chang Kham area, Wiang Subdistrict, Phrao District, Chiang Mai. This initiative aimed to technically develop local farmers engaged in fisheries in line with expanding food security and safe agricultural practices. It also aimed to provide new knowledge for new farmers as an alternative occupation or to elevate their income and strengthen the economic status of the community, aligning with market demands both domestically and internationally. It is well-known that giant freshwater prawns are significant and add substantial value to Thailand’s economy. According to reliable sources such as reports on the production and trade of giant freshwater prawns and products from 2020 and trends for 2021, it was stated that “giant freshwater prawns have an average production of 201,000 tons, generating over 10 billion baht annually for breeders, accounting for 1/5 of the total aquaculture production and 1/10 of the overall aquaculture production in Thailand.” Moreover, the technique for raising giant freshwater prawns in earthen ponds can naturally enhance the feed for fish, requiring specific skills and processes that farmers must master to achieve good results in terms of quantity, quality of production, and environmental friendliness. Thus, the Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna team visited the area to transfer knowledge and specific technical skills to over 30 interested farmers and community members.
Consultation Forum on Production Technology and Launch of the 4-Party Fund Supporting Safe Food Product Development for Thailand’s International Market
Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna emphasizes the importance of collaborating with local communities to share knowledge and technology for sustainable development. One tangible evidence is the establishment of the Community Technology Transfer Institute (CTTI), which has been operational for over 10 years. It is a large unit under Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, responsible for specific tasks with a modern management structure, highly flexible operations, and a degree of autonomy different from other agencies to meet the changing global challenges and community needs that evolve continuously. In the context of technology transfer in food production, on March 15, 2024, in front of the Buarawong meeting room at the Chalermphrakiat Building, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, under the leadership of Assistant Professor Dr. Worajak Muangjai, director of the Community Technology Transfer Institute and head of the Royal Patronage Program, introduced a team to showcase technological capabilities to promote community development and open consulting services for visitors interested in the demonstration of products derived from research and academic services. The event titled “Open House NIAxRMUTLxDIProm – Uniting Forces to Enhance Entrepreneurial Potential with Innovation and Research” included the promotion of funding for “Innovation in Agriculture and Food Business” under the “Mandatory Innovation for 2024” platform, involving a collaboration between four organizations: Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization), Kasetsart University, and the Northern Industrial Promotion Center 1. This collaboration aims to promote the development of high-quality safe agricultural and food products at an international level, which is essential for strengthening Thailand’s agricultural and food industry’s competitiveness, thereby enhancing economic value for the country and leading to a structural transformation toward a “Value-Based Economy” in line with the government’s Thailand 4.0 policy and the strategic plan of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna for 2023-2027.
Technology Clinic of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Conducts Consultation Activities on Aquaculture and Aquaculture Feed Production
From July 12-14, 2023, the Technology Clinic of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, in collaboration with the Wiang Learning Center (Sakorn), conducted a consultation activity on “Aquaculture and Aquaculture Feed Production.” The session was led by lecturer Somkiat Tanta, a faculty member in the Aquaculture program at the Faculty of Science and Agricultural Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, along with a team providing knowledge transfer to farmers and interested individuals at the Ban Chang Kham Learning Center, Wiang Subdistrict, Phrao District, Chiang Mai. The training included techniques for raising frogs, breeding frogs for parent stock, and producing aquaculture feed, enabling farmers to apply this knowledge to their occupations or to further develop their careers and increase their income.
Three Network Partners Collaborate to Train on “Crop Cultivation in Greenhouses with Internet of Things (IoT) Systems for Agriculture”
Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, in collaboration with the 19th Chiang Mai Skill Development Institute and North-Chiang Mai University, organized a training course from December 12-15, 2023, to transfer knowledge and skills regarding the construction of greenhouses integrated with IoT systems for local farmers and workers interested in participating, with 20 participants attending. The training was officially opened by Assistant Professor Dr. Worajak Muangjai, director of the Community Technology Transfer Institute, who also served as a lecturer on “IoT Systems for Greenhouses.” The training featured expert speakers, including lecturer Pichet Thaneel, acting dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at North-Chiang Mai University, who discussed “Management in Greenhouse Systems.” In the afternoon, Mrs. Natthamon Patmasukon, director of the 19th Chiang Mai Skill Development Institute, along with her team, visited the training atmosphere and interacted casually with the participants. Subsequently, Mr. Wachara Kittivorachet, responsible for supporting the operations of the Royal Project Foundation at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, lectured on “Greenhouse Design” and led a tour of the demonstration greenhouse at the Clean Energy Research Unit of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna.
The Faculty of Science at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Showcases Agricultural, Food, and Health Innovations at the 90th Maejo Agricultural Fair
On December 16, 2023, the Faculty of Science and Agricultural Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna participated in an exhibition showcasing research and transferring agricultural innovation knowledge at the “90th Maejo Agricultural Fair: Agriculture, Food, Health.” The objective was to disseminate academic work, technology, innovations, and appropriate agricultural technology knowledge to farmers, food producers, the public, and various organizations and networks in both the public and private sectors through integrated collaboration among networks to strengthen them both domestically and internationally. The event took place from December 16-24, 2023, at Maejo University, San Sai District, Chiang Mai. The displayed works included: 1) Organic Surin Jasmine Rice that Cooks Quickly by Assistant Professor Dr. Orathai Buntawong from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Lampang; 2) Microwave Clay Herbal Balls by Lecturer Natthamon Juangjeim from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Lampang; 3) Brownie Rice Flour by Dr. Prasanee Kongwong from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Lampang; 4) Seasoning Powder from Giant Freshwater Prawns by Assistant Professor Dr. Ratanaporn Narath from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Chiang Rai; 5) Cricket Flour by Dr. Sukuntala Saichai from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Chiang Mai, in collaboration with Maejo University – Phrae; 6) Black Ear Mushroom Drink “mush c” by Assistant Professor Dr. Suriyaporn Niphrom from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Phitsanulok; 7) Stretch Grass Products by Lecturer Jenchira Lankaeo from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Nan; 8) Honey Lime Spread by Assistant Professor Dr. Piyanuch Roskhru from Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna – Nan; 9) Agricultural Chemical Products (Plant Medicine) by Associate Professor Dr. Malee Tangrabieb from the Agricultural Technology Research Institute; 10) Application of Micro/Nano Bubbles Technology in Agriculture by Associate Professor Dr. Chit Srithantip from the Agricultural Technology Research Institute, among others.
Lampang Province
The Cultural Center organized the “Preserving Lanna Local Wisdom” cultural event featuring activities for making traditional snacks and local food.
The Cultural Center of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Lampang, organized the cultural day project “Preserving Lanna Local Wisdom” featuring activities such as making traditional snacks and local dishes on July 19, 2023, at the processing building of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Lampang. The event aimed to transmit and preserve knowledge related to arts, culture, and local wisdom, as well as to enhance the skills of participants so they can apply this knowledge in future careers.
Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna collaborated with the Lampang Provincial Agricultural Office and partner networks to showcase achievements and share knowledge aimed at elevating high-value agricultural products through academic research. On August 18, 2023, the Agricultural Technology Research Institute of Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, in cooperation with the Lampang Provincial Agricultural Office and educational and community networks, held an integrated research project activity titled “Participatory Process for Enhancing High-Value Agricultural Products with Appropriate Technology to Create Opportunities and Social Value for the Target Poor Communities in Lampang Province.” The research funding was provided by the Agricultural Research Development Agency for the year 2023, at the conference hall (dome) of the Agricultural Technology Research Institute, Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Lampang Province. Associate Professor Santi Changjareeya and a team of researchers exchanged ideas and provided training to farmers as part of the network’s efforts for the 2023 fiscal year.
This event brought together heads of agricultural community centers from 13 districts, totaling 130 participants, including faculty members and staff from the research institute, representatives from farmer networks, and food producers. Dr. Payungsak Manochai, Deputy Director of the Agricultural Technology Research Institute, welcomed the attendees, and Mr. Theerapong Rithichot, the Lampang Provincial Agricultural Officer, officially opened the project. This initiative supports participants in developing a research paradigm focused on local resources, fostering “Innovations for the Community,” and expanding policy concepts such as “Lampang Agricultural Innovations,” creating networks that link various development activities (research, academic services, technology clinics, and teaching) for the personnel of the research institute and community networks to drive the strategic plans for Lampang Province in the future.
Cultivating Future Quality Farmers: Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna opened a fish farming laboratory to provide experiences for students from Lamphun Agricultural and Technology College. On September 4, 2023, the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna, Lampang (RMUTL Lampang) welcomed a group of teachers and students from Lamphun Agricultural and Technology College, specifically first-year vocational students (Vocational Certificate Level 1), totaling 24 individuals, for a visit to observe teaching activities and learn practical fish farming under the integrated agriculture subject.
Associate Professor Somkiat Tanta coordinated and guided the students through activities in the fields of plant science, animal science, aquaculture, and food technology, providing them with information for further education at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna. In this regard, Associate Professor Somkiat Tanta, from the Animal Science and Aquaculture department, stated, “This visit to the fish farming laboratory aims to enhance students’ experiences through practical learning based on science and technology. RMUTL Lampang serves as a mentor university in the collaborative education program with Lamphun Agricultural and Technology College, opening a fish farming laboratory to promote experiential learning. Additionally, the university supports academic expertise by providing specialized lecturers for various courses, including Associate Professor Dr. Orathai Boonthavong, Assistant Professor Napapon Deesanam, and Dr. Prasani Kongwong, focusing on agricultural product processing technology and Associate Professor Kunwitt Panichkul, who specializes in soil-less cultivation.”
The collaborative educational program with Lamphun Agricultural and Technology College is part of the Scientific Technology-based Technology College project by the Office of Vocational Education Commission, where the mentoring university assists in academic matters and teaching organization. The Agricultural Biotechnology department at Lamphun Agricultural and Technology College signed an agreement to collaborate with Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna and Mae Jo University for qualified instructors, management, and extracurricular activities, allowing learners to research, design, and implement practical applications, leading to product and technology development that fosters agricultural production knowledge, language skills, technological proficiency, and vocational capabilities, thereby effectively entering the labor market and pursuing further studies,” added Somkiat.
RMUTL Lampang also participated in an exhibition to share research innovations and provide educational guidance during the “Winter Season and Good Things from Lampang City 2023” event. The university set up a booth showcasing research innovations and offering educational guidance from December 15-24, 2023, at the National Sports University, Lampang Campus (Lampang Provincial Stadium). The exhibition highlighted innovations such as Eco print (creating fabric products from natural materials), pineapple fiber products, ceramic clay massage balls, smart IOT greenhouses, and educational guidance booths for interested youth.
RMUTL Lampang transferred knowledge about “Thai traditional snacks made with local cassava flour” to the upstream community in Wang District, Lampang. On July 22, 2023, Instructor Watcharee Thepyothin from the Agricultural Industry Department at RMUTL Lampang, alongside Assistant Professor Dr. Dararat Thaturak from the Faculty of Business Administration and Liberal Arts, conducted an activity to share knowledge about Thai snack products substituting glutinous rice flour and/or rice flour with local cassava flour from the project for developing food products from local cassava to expand commercial applications. This initiative was part of the “Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, RMUTL Lampang (OPSTH – RMUTL), for the fiscal year 2023,” aimed at promoting communities to utilize agricultural industry knowledge and science to preserve and advance traditional Thai dessert culture.
In Nan Province, RMUTL Lampang collaborated with the Nan Provincial Industry Office to conduct a workshop titled “Safe and High-Value Agriculture” on April 3, 2023, at Namthong Hotel, Nan. This initiative sought to promote a comprehensive understanding throughout the value chain in the context of agriculture and food processing. The project included activities like “Processing Agricultural Products with Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation to Create Added Value” and “Developing New Innovative Products” within a practical training framework.
The initiative emphasized maintaining safety standards throughout the production process, selecting raw materials certified for safety, and employing suitable processing technologies to preserve nutritional value and product safety. Targeting community enterprises and businesses, approximately 20 establishments participated in the project. The training aimed to develop production processes and innovative product processing through science, technology, and creative innovations. Achieving these goals would not only enhance the value of agricultural raw materials but also uphold safety standards based on Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), ensuring consumer confidence in the nutritional quality and safety of products, leading to expanded market opportunities for processed agricultural products from Nan and neighboring provinces sustainably.
RMUTL Nan invited participation in a showcase of new innovative products titled “Linking and Testing the Market” on August 11, 2023. The event featured new innovative products from community enterprises and agricultural product processors, such as sweet oranges, mulberries, hemp seeds, snow lotus, and seaweed, among others, providing opportunities to taste, shop, and view various processed food and beverage products like mulberry jelly with goji berries, ready-to-drink protein whey with hemp seeds, and snow lotus syrup. Attendees could also meet over 20 community enterprise partners and processors directly on August 11, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Debase area in the city.
Enhancing knowledge to prepare for farmer training under the “Nan Sandbox” project was held from October 9-11, 2023. Associate Professor Dr. Winai Saengkaew, Deputy Dean for Research and Academic Services at Mae Jo University and an alumnus of RMUTL Lampang, along with Dr. Thedsak Thonlaksana, a faculty member from the Herbal Science department, visited and lectured to the Agricultural and Herbal Medicine Center (PAD) team on developing optimal cultivation conditions for medicinal plants to produce high and consistent levels of active ingredients. This activity aimed to enhance the knowledge of RMUTL Lampang personnel in preparation for knowledge transfer to farmers in the area under the “Nan Sandbox” project, welcomed by Associate Professor Dr. Wiroj Mongkonthep, Director of the University Administration Office, and Associate Professor Dr. Ratchaneeporn Inkam, Co-Director of the Agricultural and Herbal Medicine Center, along with their teams.
On Thursday, November 23, 2023, Instructor Pakorn Sunthornmeth, head of the project “Developing Smart Farms for Agriculture to Elevate the Population for Quality Entry into the Elderly Society,” along with volunteer students, visited the project area to follow up on activities related to the “Semi-Automatic Irrigation System.” They checked and tested the operation of irrigation equipment in vegetable plots outside the greenhouse, engaging in knowledge exchange and collecting data on various aspects to compile results on project implementation, including issues, obstacles, and community feedback from the planning process for seasonal vegetable planting, cultivation methods, maintenance, harvesting, processing, group accounting, and cost and income analysis from vegetable sales. Additionally, the youth volunteers aimed to leverage technology and innovations, along with knowledge from the university, to assist farmers and community participants. One aspect included harvesting produce from the project’s vegetable plots to be processed into local food for sale in community markets, with fresh vegetables delivered to buyers, such as restaurant operators and hospitals, as needed.
Tak Province
Towards Enhancing Knowledge for Farmers and Local Food Producers: Promoting “Avocado as a Health Food” with Knowledge from Research
RMUTL, led by the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, organized a project titled “Knowledge Transfer for Developing Health Food Products from Local Avocado Varieties in Tak Province.” This project targeted ten avocado-growing farmers in the Phob Phra District, taking place on September 23-24, 2023, at the Thep Phithak Garden in Chao Khap Subdistrict, Phob Phra District, Tak Province. It is part of a sub-project funded under the Fundamental Fund for the 2023 fiscal year.
The project involved on-site visits to connect with local farmers, specifically avocado orchard owners, by faculty members and students from the Food Business program. They transferred knowledge on skills, development, and processing to create various health food products from avocados. Examples include: 1) Utilizing avocado as a fat substitute in healthy chocolate custard filling, 2) Developing healthy avocado-based desserts, and 3) Creating health-focused stroopwafels filled with avocado cream. Avocados are emerging as a new economic crop in Thailand, favored for being a healthy fat-rich fruit that is nutritious and satisfying.
The on-site initiative, led by Associate Professor Dr. Achara Dolwitthayakoon, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, included Dr. Donporn Wongwaiwech, faculty member Wannawimon Phumphoe, and students, showcasing the value and benefits of the university’s research projects. These efforts aim to provide practical applications that can contribute to sustainable food business development in the community. This initiative is supported by the Science, Research, and Innovation Promotion Fund (Wor.Vor.N.) to genuinely promote local development and food security.
Throughout 2023. RMUTL highlights a commitment to becoming a hub for connecting and transferring knowledge to the Local Farmers and Food Producers Network through diverse activities and projects covering all educational service areas in the six northern provinces, impacting regions nationwide and internationally.
Additionally, combining knowledge transfer through various channels—including hands-on training workshops, consulting through technology clinics, knowledge exchange forums, and proactive fieldwork—integrates modern agricultural innovation (Smart Farming), Internet of Things (IoT) technology, development of safe food products, enhancement of high-value agricultural product standards, and safe food processing. This leads to northern farmers and local food producers developing high-value products that effectively meet market demands, fostering balanced development in economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
All operations have received collaboration from a network of partners in the public sector, private sector, and local communities, reflecting the organization’s critical role in driving a holistic agricultural ecosystem, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG2) of enhancing food security and promoting environmentally friendly agriculture.
