General
Uthenthawai and Pathumwan Institutes Ordered Closed for Three Months
Thai authorities have ordered a three-month closure of the Uthenthawai and Pathumwan institutes to curb long-standing violent conflicts between students.
According to Khaosod Online, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, has announced four new measures to address the persistent violent clashes between students of Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok (Uthenthawai Campus) and Pathumwan Institute of Technology.
Both institutions have been ordered to close for three months, during which all on-site instruction is suspended. The authorities have mandated that both universities secure alternative locations for their students. If new facilities are not ready within the three-month window, the suspension of on-site learning will continue indefinitely. Access to the current campuses is strictly prohibited for students during this period.
Furthermore, the government has directed Chulalongkorn University to reclaim the Uthenthawai campus land. The directive specifies that this land must not be used for commercial purposes but should instead be developed into an innovation hub for public benefit.
For residents and travelers in Bangkok, this closure means that the areas surrounding these campuses may see a significant reduction in student activity. While the move aims to restore public order, it remains to be confirmed how the institutions will manage the transition to new learning sites and whether the long-term relocation plans will be fully implemented within the stipulated timeframe.
