Sustainable Development Project: “Disability Studies and Social Enterprise in Thailand 2025 (Winter 2025: Thailand DIST/ENTR)” under the collaboration between Burapha University and the University of Delaware, USA
Persons with disabilities are a vulnerable group gaining increasing attention from the international community, especially in terms of education, career development, and employment promotion. These factors foster equality and reduce social disparity, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a leading academic institution in Thailand, Burapha University has been entrusted by the University of Delaware, USA, to implement disability and social enterprise study tours in Thailand continuously. This initiative promotes the exchange of knowledge and experience in disability development. The project aims to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of managing the quality of life for people with disabilities in Thailand through visits to key public and private organisations. Additionally, it offers an opportunity to establish academic cooperation networks between the two universities and further develop related research and policies.
The objective of this project is divided by 4 parts as follows,
1. To enhance understanding and experiences concerning various aspects of disability in Thailand.
2. To study models for promoting and improving the quality of life of people with disabilities in Thailand.
3. To examine the models and management of social enterprises (SE) for people with disabilities in Thailand.
4. To develop academic and public service cooperation networks between Burapha University and the University of Delaware, USA.
The project comprises four main activities:
1. Orientation and hands-on learning – includes lectures, group discussions, experience sharing, and project presentation.
2. Study visits to organizations involved in disability and community development, including government agencies, foundations, and businesses supporting employment for people with disabilities in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Chonburi.
3. Cultural excursions – visits to significant cultural and historical sites such as Wat Phra Kaew, Phra That Doi Suthep, and the Sanctuary of Truth Museum.
4. Evaluation – includes study results, presentations, and project outcomes assessments for future development. The project emphasizes experiential learning, allowing participants to apply knowledge and build sustainable collaboration networks.
This project contributes to developing international knowledge and understanding of disability issues in Thailand through deep study and knowledge exchange. Target groups can effectively apply the experiences gained to education, research, and relevant policy development. Additionally, the project enhances the international image of Burapha University and fosters academic collaboration networks between domestic and international institutions, paving the way for long-term academic and social development.
Project Leader: Mrs. Buttri Dumrisathonlamark, Director of the Center of Development and Extension Organizational Competency (CDE), ASC