RMUTL’s recruitment framework goes beyond traditional admissions and hiring practices. It integrates outreach programs, inclusive policies, and supportive structures that encourage participation from vulnerable groups—particularly individuals with disabilities. The university views diversity not merely as representation, but as a foundation for academic excellence and social innovation.
Through targeted initiatives and the dedicated work of the Division of Student Development (DSD) and the Disability Support and Services (DSS) Center, RMUTL creates pathways for underrepresented individuals to access education, employment, and skill development opportunities on an equitable basis.
RMUTL’s inclusive recruitment and engagement framework includes policies and programs designed to ensure that underrepresented groups can study, work, and thrive within the university community.
Dedicated Recruitment and Support Unit – DSS Center
Students and personnel with disabilities are officially registered under the supervision of the Division of Student Development (DSD) within the Disability Support and Services (DSS) Unit. The DSS team comprises three professional specialists trained in disability support, rehabilitation coordination, and special education. Their role extends beyond administrative work—they provide personalized assistance and welfare coordination for both students and staff with disabilities.
Their responsibilities include:
- Facilitating medical care and physiotherapy for students who require specialized treatment.
- Coordinating leave of absence and academic adjustments for medical or rehabilitation needs.
- Assisting with welfare services such as healthcare access, participation in extracurricular activities, and support for internships or cooperative education (Co-op).
- Organizing skill enhancement programs and personal development workshops to promote the employability and self-reliance of students with disabilities.
Through these comprehensive services, the DSS Center ensures that individuals with disabilities can engage fully in academic and professional life at RMUTL.
Inclusive Recruitment Campaigns and Outreach
RMUTL conducts inclusive recruitment and awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging participation from vulnerable or underrepresented groups. Activities are organized to raise awareness and to encourage inclusive participation, including:
- The “Open Forum on Educational Equality” (June 28, 2024) — an event designed to empower vulnerable groups, especially persons with disabilities, and to promote skills development through Re-Skill, Up-Skill, and New-Skill activities.
- The “Annual Meeting for Students with Disabilities” (August 9, 2024) — a gathering focused on academic and social inclusion, peer support, and accessible learning environments.
Both initiatives directly support the recruitment and retention of students from underrepresented backgrounds by emphasizing RMUTL’s role as an inclusive and welcoming institution.
Collaboration with External Organizations
RMUTL partners with various government and private agencies to strengthen outreach and recruitment for vulnerable groups. These partnerships include:
- Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI): Supporting education grants and inclusion programs for students with disabilities.
- Provincial Social Development Offices: Coordinating community-based recruitment and support for low-income and disabled students.
- Local employers and co-op partners: Providing training and job opportunities for students with disabilities through RMUTL’s cooperative education programs.
Employment and Internship Pathways for Disabled Students
RMUTL not only recruits students with disabilities but also works to prepare them for professional employment. The DSS Unit collaborates with the Cooperative Education Department and industry partners to identify suitable workplaces, create accessible environments, and promote fair treatment for disabled interns and graduates.
Additionally, the university organizes workshops on communication skills, independent living, and entrepreneurship to empower students to succeed in the job market.
Continuous Capacity Building and Inclusion Promotion
The Division of Student Development organizes annual workshops and awareness events to educate faculty and administrative staff about diversity and inclusion. These programs cover topics such as inclusive teaching methods, communication with students with disabilities, and anti-discrimination in recruitment and classroom management.
RMUTL also promotes gender equality and social inclusion through participation in campaigns like Chiang Mai Pride 2024 and International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
| Activity | Objective | Participants | Partners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recruitment and registration under DSD and DSS supervision | To ensure that students and staff with disabilities receive ongoing academic, medical, and welfare support from trained specialists | Students and staff with disabilities | DSD; DSS Center (3 specialized officers) |
| Open Forum on Educational Equality (June 28, 2024) | To promote equal education and skills development for vulnerable groups through Re-Skill, Up-Skill, and New-Skill initiatives | Students with disabilities; faculty; staff; external participants | DSD; MHESI; Local community representatives |
| Annual Meeting for Students with Disabilities (August 9, 2024) | To enhance peer support, awareness of rights, and continuous academic monitoring for students with disabilities | Students with disabilities; DSS staff; faculty advisors | DSS Center; Student Development Division |
| Employment and cooperative education assistance | To prepare students with disabilities for work readiness and ensure inclusive co-op opportunities | Students with disabilities; HR and co-op partners | Cooperative Education Center; Local employers; DSD |
| Medical and welfare assistance services | To provide special case treatment coordination, physiotherapy, academic leave requests, and welfare activities | Students and staff with disabilities | DSS Center; University Health Unit; Hospitals; Social Welfare Offices |
| Awareness campaigns and staff training on inclusivity | To build awareness of diversity, inclusion, and equitable recruitment | Faculty, staff, and administrators | DSD; HR Division; Public Relations Department |
RMUTL’s recruitment strategies for underrepresented groups go beyond traditional admissions—they integrate long-term care, capacity building, and community partnerships. By registering all students and staff with disabilities under the Division of Student Development and ensuring they are directly supported by three qualified specialists in the DSS Unit, RMUTL provides comprehensive academic, medical, and social support.
These specialists assist with medical appointments, physiotherapy coordination, welfare services, academic leave management, and personal development programs such as internships and cooperative education. This holistic support model ensures that persons with disabilities and other underrepresented individuals are not only recruited but are also empowered to achieve success and independence.
Source Links
- RMUTL Student Development Division (DSD) – Disability Support and Services Center
https://std.rmutl.ac.th/ - RMUTL SDGs News: “Open Forum on Educational Equality – Promoting Opportunities for Vulnerable Groups” (June 28, 2024)
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1596994821252281&set=pcb.1596997981251965&locale=th_TH - RMUTL Annual Meeting for Students with Disabilities 2024 (August 9, 2024)
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=487065867357512&set=pcb.487067084024057 - RMUTL Participation in International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 and Chiang Mai Pride 2024 – DSD News
https://sdgs.rmutl.ac.th/