WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY
Assumption University of Thailand (AU) welcomed a leading voice in Southeast Asian conservation as Dr. Petch Manopawitr delivered an eye-opening guest lecture for the FT1005 Environmental Conservation course, hosted by the Theophane Venard School of Biotechnology.
Held on July 4, 2025, at the Hua Mak Campus, the session brought together students, faculty, and environmental enthusiasts eager to learn from Dr. Petch’s global experience in conservation science, sustainable development, and community engagement.
Dr. Petch, a conservation scientist and technical advisor to international environmental organizations, currently serves as President of the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand (BCST). He is also the co-founder of ReReef, a Thai-based social enterprise innovating coral reef restoration through community-led solutions.
The session blended ecological urgency with hope, as Dr. Petch challenged students to rethink the way we relate to nature, protect biodiversity, and design solutions that balance science and social impact. Using real-world case studies from Thailand and beyond, he illustrated how conservation can be inclusive, data-driven, and deeply human.
“You don’t have to be a scientist to make a difference. But you do have to be committed,” Dr. Petch shared during the Q&A, sparking a wave of interest in environmental careers and sustainable entrepreneurship.
AU students praised the talk as both “inspiring” and “practical,” especially those considering futures in environmental science, policy, or eco-innovation.
This lecture is part of the university’s mission to foster global citizenship and sustainability awareness, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
More Information about Theophane Venard School of Biotechnology, please visit:
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