Senate Questions Ministry on Uthen Thawai Relocation Plan

During a Senate session on November 9, 2026, Senator Samphan Chaiwisetjinda formally questioned the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), Yoschanan Wongsawat, regarding the government's decision to relocate the Uthen Thawai campus. The Senator argued that the institution, which has operated for nearly a century, holds historical significance tied to the wishes of King Rama VI and should not be treated as a source of criminal activity. He further questioned the necessity and justification for Chulalongkorn University's acquisition of the land for development, suggesting that relocating an educational institution solely due to student conflicts is an inadequate solution. In response, Minister Yoschanan maintained that the ministry is acting in accordance with the resolution of the Committee on Higher Education Policy (KAYAP). He stated that while the ministry is willing to assist students and faculty in finding new locations or transferring to nearby Rajamangala University of Technology campuses if they are uncomfortable, the current site is no longer considered viable for the institution. For residents and visitors, this ongoing dispute highlights potential changes to the educational landscape in the Pathum Wan area. It remains to be confirmed how the ministry will address the specific concerns raised by the Senate and what the final timeline for any potential relocation will be.