Message from the President
Message from the President
President Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse is the embodiment of personal dedication and devotion to the vision of achieving a resilient and self-reliant society for people in the Asia and the Pacific region. He was awarded the 1973 Magsaysay Award for community leadership. He has been elected five times as a Member of Parliament. He was the Deputy Bangkok Governor, the Chair of the House of Foreign Affairs Committee, the Minister of University Affairs, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office. Owing to his great contribution to understanding of foreign affairs, Prof. Dr. Krasae received the Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the Most Exalted Order of both the White Elephant and the Crown of Thailand. He was also awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun by the Emperor of Japan.
Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse is a legend. He was awarded the degree of Doctor of Public Health from Columbia University and the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, known as the Asian Nobel Prize, for his community leadership. Prof. Dr. Chanawongse served as a member of the Cabinet as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of University Affairs (Higher Education) and Advisor to the Prime Minister. He has also served as chair of Naresuan University, Princess of Naradhiwas University and Panyapiwat Institute of Management.
Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse, who is now 88 years old, has devoted himself to education in Thailand because of his enthusiasm and faith that life can become better for everyone. Meanwhile, he has promote the connections between Thailand and the international community. For example, he served as Chair of the Board of the United Nations Asian Disaster Preparedness Center.
Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse said that Krirk University is historic and well- known in English education. The reputation of Krirk University has always been very notable. After taking over as university president, Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse has been committed to taking the university forward. Now, overall, there are 2,365 full- time students and 745 part-time students, including 1,193 full-time and 284 part-time postgraduate students, and 1,172 full-time and 461 part-time students. Students at Krirk University enjoy their campus life and learn everyday. “I was born in arural area and served as a medical doctor. I consider that education in rural areas influences the future of Thailand. I realize the importance of education, and stress that the cultivation of leadership will lead to success. The Institute of Leadership Development at Krirk University was founded for advocating leadership in all areas,” said Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse. Furthermore, the Institute of Thailand, China and ASEAN and Institute of Safety Management have been established for a brighter future for all. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse has served as Chair of the Board of the United Nations Asian Disaster Preparedness Center for 25 years and is fully aware of the importance of disaster preparedness education, such as the increasing impact of floods, droughts, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis.
” I think education is crucial and the network between the university and Thailand has helped in building up cooperation among countries, including in the areas of education, economy, art, culture and the environment. This is my belief and dedication to the fulfillment of that vision, ” said Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse.
