School of Tourism and Hospitality, Suan Dusit University, Organizes Historical Seminar “Tracing King Mongkut: The Father of Thai Science”

Bangkok – The School of Tourism and Hospitality, Suan Dusit University, organized an academic seminar under the project “Knowledge Enrichment with the School of Tourism and Hospitality” on the topic “Tracing King Mongkut: The Father of Thai Science.” The seminar aimed to honor the great contributions of King Mongkut (Rama IV), recognized as the Father of Thai Science.

The event was organized by the Arts and Cultural Preservation Committee of the School of Tourism and Hospitality, in collaboration with members of the Chatrachai and Kasemsan royal families, descendants of Her Serene Highness Princess Ornamphai Komarakul Na Nagara, a granddaughter of King Mongkut.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Asst.Prof. Dr.Pornchanit Kaew-nate, Vice President for Academic Affairs and International Affairs, who delivered the welcome address. Representatives from the two royal families, Dr. Supalak Komarakul Na Nagara, President of the Center for Professional Assessment (Thailand) (CPA Thailand), and Mr. Piyachat Chatchai, spoke on the objectives of the event.

On this occasion, members of the Kasemsan and Chatrchai families donated scholarships to support field study activities for students in the Interdisciplinary Tourism Program, School of Tourism and Hospitality.

The seminar session featured distinguished speakers, including Asst. Prof. Dr. Sara Meepolkij, Program Chair of the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Tourism, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Duangkamol Aussavamas, Head of the Thai Language and Culture Program, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The discussion highlighted King Mongkut’s intellectual contributions and leadership in guiding Thailand toward modernization and civilization. Topics included his role in the absolute monarchy system, the Devaraja concept, royal succession principles, the Dhammayutika Nikaya and interfaith relations, diplomacy in a globalizing world, the promotion of knowledge and sciences for national development, and the continuation of his legacy during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

The seminar was held on February 6, 2026, at the meeting room on the 5th floor of the University Office Building, Suan Dusit University.