Chulalongkorn University recognizes the importance of union-based employment practices, supporting labor rights, and acknowledging the role of unions. To this end, the university has established a The Faculty Senate and professional networks to support and amplify the voices of staff. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to fostering union-based employment practices, a key performance indicator in The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. These efforts align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, demonstrating Chulalongkorn University’s dedication to creating fair work environments that promote sustainable economic growth.

Although the Professional Network does not explicitly represent operational personnel in the same way as the Faculty Senate does, it serves an equally essential function. For example, it establishes a communication network among Chulalongkorn University’s operational staff in a variety of professional fields, providing timely and complete information exchange. The network also allows for the exchange of work experiences, mutual learning, and a better understanding of pertinent rules, regulations, operational issues, and solutions within each profession. The impact of this network is significant: it empowers staff by offering support in navigating professional challenges, fostering a collaborative culture, and promoting greater cohesion and efficiency within the university’s operational structure. By strengthening communication and mutual support, the Professional Network helps operational staff stay informed, share best practices, and adapt effectively to new policies and institutional goals, ultimately contributing to the university’s overall excellence.

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On Friday, September 6, 2024, the Professional Network Committee for HR Practitioners, in collaboration with the Human Resource Management Office at Chulalongkorn University, hosted the annual Professional Network for HR Members meeting and held a specialized training session on “AI Opportunity in HR” as part of the Technical Essential Courses for CU-HR. This session took place from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., both on-site in the 7th-floor conference room in the Mahatheera Rachanusorn Building (Central Library) and online via Zoom.

The event was presided over by Professor Kanaphon Chanhom, Ph.D., Acting Vice President, who gave the opening comments and welcomed the HR Network members. The morning session included a workshop presented by Mr. Pitchakorn Chantipjam, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Connext AI, who discussed the topic “AI Opportunity in HR for CU-HR,” which explored practical uses of artificial intelligence in human resources. In the afternoon, members attended a knowledge sharing session with the Human Resource Management Office, where they discussed updates on HR management policies, exchanged experiences, and evaluated current HR practices. This event had a significant impact on HR professionals within Chulalongkorn University by enhancing their knowledge and skills in leveraging AI to improve HR processes. It fostered a collaborative learning environment, allowing members to understand emerging HR technologies and better adapt to the evolving HR landscape. This meeting not only strengthened the technical capabilities of the CU-HR team but also promoted alignment with the university’s forward-looking HR strategies. For further details, visit https://www.hrm.chula.ac.th/newhrm/post-06092024-20/

On Friday, April 5, 2024, the Human Resource Management Office at Chulalongkorn University hosted the event “Chula Inter Staff Meet Up (in Songkran Festival)” at the Phra Si Maha Bodhi courtyard in front of Chamchuri Building 4. This event aimed to foster a networking ecosystem for international staff at the university, aligning with the university’s strategic goal of building a global presence. The gathering provided a platform for staff from different departments to connect, create a sense of unity, and strengthen employee engagement through the celebration of the annual Songkran festival. The event was opened by Vice President Mrs. Supaporn Chanchamroen, with President Professor Dr. Bundhit Eua-arporn delivering blessings to the staff and presiding over the traditional water-pouring ceremony. The event welcomed over 200 participants, including international staff, their families, and Thai employees.

The event’s program included an information-sharing session for international staff led by Assistant to the President Mr. Pokai Sriratanobhas, Director of International Affairs and Global Network, Dr. Ram Piyaket, and a team from the HR Management Office led by Assistant to the President Assoc. Prof. Pachsiry Chompukum, Ph.D. This “Meet & Greet with Inter Staff” segment provided crucial updates and facilitated open discussion among the attendees. A highlight of the event was the “Chula Leadership Water-Pouring Ceremony,” which allowed international staff to experience Thai culture and interact closely with senior university leaders. These leaders included President Professor Dr. Bundhit Eua-arporn, Vice President for General Administration and Arts and Culture Assoc. Prof. Pomthong Malakul Na Ayudhaya, Ph.D., Vice President for Human Resources and Organizational Development Mrs. Supaporn Chanchamroen, and Director of the C2F Planning Office, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vithaya Kulsomboon.

The cultural experience was enriched by a “Drum Dance and Thai Music” performance by students from the Faculty of Fine Arts, showcasing the elegance of Thai arts. The event concluded with a traditional Thai-style fair atmosphere, featuring live music by Arai Band, hands-on cultural booths, and traditional Thai games such as garland-making, stilt walking, and dart throwing. There was also a variety of Thai foods and snacks, including pad thai, tom yum goong, som tam with grilled chicken, miang kham, kanom krok, kanom chan, and kanom tom, to provide international staff with an immersive Songkran experience.

The impact of this event was profound, as it not only strengthened bonds within the diverse university community but also introduced international staff and their families to Thai traditions, fostering cultural understanding and camaraderie. This celebration reflected Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to inclusivity and internationalization by integrating cultural appreciation into the workplace, enhancing the overall experience of foreign staff and reinforcing Chulalongkorn’s image as a globally welcoming institution.

On Wednesday, August 28, 2024, the Human Resource Management Office at Chulalongkorn University hosted the “Inter-Staff Connecting Activities” event for international staff from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event commenced with registration and an opening ceremony at Chula Naruemit Pavilion, presided over by Professor Professor Kanaphon Chanhom, Ph.D., Acting Vice President. Following the ceremony, participants enjoyed off-campus activities at significant cultural sites, including Wat Saket Ratchaworamahawihan (the Golden Mount) and the King Prajadhipok Museum in Bangkok.

This event aimed to strengthen connections among international staff, providing them with a platform to build relationships and establish a learning ecosystem that supports the university’s international programs. By introducing international staff to Thai culture and heritage, the activity helped promote a deeper cultural integration and sense of belonging within the university community. The impact of the “Inter-Staff Connecting Activities” was substantial, as it encouraged intercultural understanding and relationship-building among international employees. This initiative supports Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of its international learning programs and reinforcing the university’s position as a global academic hub.

Additionally, the university supports information management systems to streamline various processes, such as the development of the “CU Adjunct System” an information system designed to assist adjunct and international faculty members. This platform consolidates essential data, procedures, and forms to facilitate the work of HR staff and support networks, making it easier to manage and assist adjunct and international professors. The impact of the CU Adjunct System is significant, as it enhances efficiency, reduces administrative burdens, and provides a seamless experience for international and adjunct faculty. By centralizing necessary resources, the system enables HR personnel to deliver targeted support, helping to foster an inclusive environment and ensuring that all faculty can focus on their roles in teaching and research. This initiative aligns with Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to excellence in global academic collaboration and reinforces its goal of becoming a welcoming and supportive institution for faculty from diverse backgrounds.