Celebrating 125 Years of the Brothers of Saint Gabriel

AU Marks 125 years of St. Gabriel Education and President’s Golden Jubilee

Assumption University marked 125 years of St. Gabriel education. The milestone was celebrated on October 7, 2026, with a Mass of Thanksgiving at Assumption Cathedral in Bang Rak, Bangkok, honoring more than a century of the Brothers of St. Gabriel’s educational mission in Thailand and 50 years of religious profession for two members of the congregation.

The celebration held special meaning for the AU community as Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President of Assumption University of Thailand (AU), celebrated his Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession alongside Bro. Phiraphongs Darathai (Paul).

Watch the Mass of Thanksgiving

Mass of Thanksgiving celebrating 125 years of the educational mission of the Brothers of St. Gabriel in Thailand and the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka and Bro. PhiraphongsDarathai.

The Mass was presided over by Bishop Silvio Siripong Charatsri, Bishop of Ratchaburi, and brought together members of the Brothers of St. Gabriel, educators, members of the Catholic community and representatives of institutions connected through the congregation’s long-standing commitment to education in Thailand. The official Catholic announcement confirms the October 7 celebration, venue and presiding bishop.

125 years of education in Thailand

The Brothers of St. Gabriel began their educational mission in Thailand in 1901, establishing a tradition that would grow to include schools and educational institutions serving generations of students across the country.

Assumption University forms an important part of that story. AU is a non-profit institution administered by the Brothers of St. Gabriel, whose educational work in Thailand has continued since 1901.

For the University community, the anniversary connected AU’s present-day mission with the educational tradition that helped shape the institution: education grounded in knowledge, character, service and responsibility to others.

Fifty years of religious life and service

The celebration also honored the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka and Bro. Phiraphongs Darathai, recognizing 50 years of religious life and service.

Rev. Bro. Sirichai has served as President of Assumption University of Thailand since 2024 and has held a wide range of educational, administrative and religious leadership roles in Thailand and internationally throughout his career.

The Golden Jubilee offered the AU community an opportunity not only to celebrate its President, but also to recognize the tradition of service shared by generations of Brothers whose work has helped shape education in Thailand.

As the Brothers of St. Gabriel marked 125 years of educational mission in Thailand, the Mass brought together past and present: a century and a quarter of educational service, 50 years of religious commitment and the continuing role of education in serving future generations.

WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY

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Assumption University and UC Davis CPE Sign MoU to Launch Study Abroad Initiatives

Assumption University of Thailand (AU) is proud to announce a new partnership with UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education (CPE), established through the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Capitalizing on a shared commitment to excellence in Biotechnology and multidisciplinary education, this strategic agreement establishes a formal pathway for AU students to undertake semester-long study abroad programs at UC Davis in California.

Through this collaboration, AU students will gain direct access to world-class educational resources, immerse themselves in an international academic ecosystem, and build key competencies for global leadership.

Further information regarding application cycles, course credit transfers, and informational sessions will be announced shortly.

WRITER: THANANPORN SETHJINDA

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Chinese Songs, Thai Voices, One Winning Harmony at AU

Big voices, bright smiles and plenty of star power! Thirty-eight young singers from schools and universities across Thailand took center stage at the Chinese Song Contest Finals, proving that language learning can be as exciting as a live performance.

Hosted by the Confucius Institute at Assumption University (CIAU) at Assumption College, Bang Rak, the competition gave young performers their moment in the spotlight, complete with colorful costumes, Chinese melodies and the excitement of performing before an audience.

From traditional Chinese favorites to contemporary pop songs, contestants impressed with their pronunciation, vocal skills and stage presence. Some brought elegance and emotion to their performances, while others delivered youthful energy and personality. Each had a chance to shine.

Four Champions, 38 Young Stars

The competition welcomed students in four categories: Primary School, Junior High School, Senior High School and University.

After preliminary selections, 38 finalists earned their places on stage, demonstrating not only their singing abilities but also the dedication required to perform in another language.

Four outstanding performers claimed first prizes:

  • Primary School: Ms. Manasanan Poynok
  • Junior High School: Mr. Kantanat Suphasanrangsan
  • Senior High School: Ms. Thitaree Labkum
  • University: Ms. Suratsavadee Deenok

While four singers took home top honors, every finalist had reason to celebrate. Performing in Chinese before a live audience required preparation, courage and confidence, achievements that extended well beyond the competition results.

Learning Chinese, One Song at a Time

Who says language learning has to stay in the classroom?

For these young performers, music offered a chance to bring Chinese vocabulary, pronunciation and cultural understanding to life.

The songs explored family, friendship, personal growth and Chinese traditions, giving contestants opportunities to connect with the meaning behind the words they sang.

Their performances also demonstrated an important lesson: language learning is not simply about getting the pronunciation right. It is about finding the confidence to communicate and connect with others.

For students who may one day pursue international education, careers or cultural exchanges, that confidence can be just as valuable as a prize.

A Stage for Talent and Friendship

The event was held under the theme “One Melody Unites China and Thailand, Elegant Rhythms Grace Siam,” bringing together young Chinese-language learners from educational institutions across Thailand.

Dr. Kitikorn Dowpiset, Vice President for Moral Development Education at Assumption University, welcomed the contestants and encouraged continued educational and cultural exchanges between Thailand and China.

The occasion also brought together university representatives, educators and language specialists who shared a commitment to supporting young learners.

A panel of five judges evaluated the finalists on Chinese pronunciation, singing proficiency, stage presence and song selection. Their assessments recognized both musical ability and the effort required to communicate effectively through Chinese-language performances.

A Special Performance for a Special Anniversary

The contest added a youthful musical celebration to the 125th anniversary of the educational mission of the Brothers of Saint Gabriel in Thailand.

For more than a century, Saint Gabriel educational institutions have encouraged young people to develop their abilities through learning, creativity and personal growth.

The Chinese Song Contest reflected that spirit by providing a platform where students could explore their talents, build friendships and discover what they could achieve beyond the classroom.

The Future Sounds Bright!

For the Confucius Institute at Assumption University, the competition was about more than finding the best singers. It was about encouraging young people to embrace language learning, appreciate cultural differences and believe in their own abilities.

The institute will continue creating opportunities for students to develop their Chinese-language skills through educational and cultural activities.

And for the 38 finalists who stepped into the spotlight, the applause may have faded, but the confidence, friendships and memories will last much longer.

Congratulations to all the young performers. The stage was yours, and you made it count!

WRITER: CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AT ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY

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AU Scholars Bring Thai Expertise to International Stage in Yunnan

Assumption University faculty members delivered keynote addresses at an international cultural gathering in China, showcasing Thai academic expertise in arts, design and communication.

Assumption University of Thailand (AU) made its mark on the international academic stage as two faculty leaders delivered keynote addresses at the Lancang-Mekong Culture Camp, held September 24–28, 2026, in Gusheng Village beside the scenic Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan Province, China.

Dr. Apichart Intravisit, Program Director of the Master of Arts in Arts and Design, and Assistant Professor Dr. Nutthaphut Panjad, Dean of AU’s School of Communication Arts, represented the University during the September 27 academic exchange. They joined scholars from leading Asian universities to explore how art, creativity and cultural heritage can bring communities closer together.

A Village Becomes a Living Classroom

Forget the conventional conference hall. This international gathering turned a traditional Chinese village into a living classroom, where academics, students and local residents shared traditions, stories and experiences.

Under the theme “Using the ‘Self’ as Method: From Nostalgia to River Basins,” the camp explored the cultural connections linking communities across the Lancang-Mekong region.

Participants experienced traditional tea preparation, flower arrangement, incense, cooking and lantern launching. International teams also interviewed local Bai families, recording stories and cultural practices through photography, sketches, writing and sound.

A highlight was the Lancang-Mekong reunion banquet, where participants shared Mid-Autumn Festival traditions and discovered how familiar celebrations can build understanding across cultures.

AU Faculty Join Leading Asian Scholars

The participation of Dr. Apichart and Dr. Nutthaphut placed AU’s academic expertise alongside scholars from Peking University, Chulalongkorn University, Yunnan University and the University of Brawijaya.

The event also brought together distinguished representatives from the local government and academic community, including Mr. Huang Shun, Vice Minister of the Publicity Department of the CPC Dali Bai Autonomous Prefectural Committee, and Prof. Wang Tianxiang of the Sichuan Academy of Fine Arts. Their presence further highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and local authorities in promoting cultural exchange and heritage preservation.

Bringing together participants from China, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, the gathering encouraged conversations about cultural identity, artistic expression and the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.

Their keynote participation highlighted the international relevance of AU’s expertise in arts, design and communication while reinforcing the University’s commitment to academic exchange beyond national borders.

Building Connections Beyond Borders

Organized by the Artistic Agri-Tech Courtyard of the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, the camp demonstrated how universities and local communities can work together to celebrate and document cultural heritage.

For Assumption University, participation in the event offered another opportunity to strengthen international academic relationships, share Thai perspectives and engage with creative approaches to education and cultural preservation.

Through their contributions in Yunnan, AU’s faculty leaders helped extend the University’s international academic presence while demonstrating how creativity, communication and cultural understanding can connect people across the region.

WRITER: APICHART INTRAVISIT

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New Partnerships Put AU at the Heart of Thailand’s Food Innovation

What does it take to turn a Thai coconut, a traditional dessert or a bright student idea into the next big food business At Assumption University of Thailand (AU), the answer now includes 13 new partners ready to help make it happen.

The Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation (FBI) at Assumption University (AU) brought together 13 industry organizations, entrepreneurs and community enterprises on September 25, 2026, for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing aimed at giving the next generation of food innovators the skills, connections and opportunities to succeed.

The partnerships, established under the New Breed Graduate Program, will help students gain practical experience in food innovation, research, product development and entrepreneurship while supporting Thailand’s growing future food industry.

And this collaboration goes well beyond the laboratory.

With expertise spanning smart farming, agricultural drones, functional foods, traditional Thai desserts, startup financing and international shipping, AU’s new partners bring together the knowledge and resources needed to help promising food ideas succeed in the marketplace.

A Recipe for Real-World Success

Imagine students developing a healthier snack from locally grown ingredients, discovering a new use for Thai herbs or finding an international market for a traditional community product.

Through these partnerships, such possibilities can become practical learning experiences.

Students will have opportunities to explore the entire food business journey, including research, proof of concept, product prototyping, production planning, marketing, financial management and commercialization.

The collaboration also creates opportunities for knowledge exchange between university researchers and industry professionals, helping businesses explore new products while giving students a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities awaiting them after graduation.

Meet the Ingredients Behind the Innovation

AU’s 13 partners represent an impressive mix of expertise, with each bringing something valuable to the table.

In food research and product innovation, Innovative Pharma Herbs Company Limited brings its focus on the Food as Medicine concept, while SKY Pharma Agro Consultancy Co., Ltd. contributes expertise in extracts and active compounds. W&M Natural Products Co., Ltd. specializes in developing functional foods from Thai coconuts.

On the production and culinary side, Value Sourcing Co., Ltd., through its Reo’s Deli brand, offers experience in ready-to-eat foods, while ZEEDDER Co., Ltd. focuses on adding value to Thai dipping sauces and related products.

Traditional Thai food knowledge also has a place at the innovation table. Krathum Rai Phatthana Community Enterprise, known for its Khanom Mae Saraphi brand, and Lung Anek bring expertise in Thai desserts and established production traditions, helping preserve culinary heritage while exploring new commercial opportunities.

Meanwhile, Centro Vision Co., Ltd. and Sakawchan Garden contribute agricultural technology and smart farming expertise, including the use of drones and modern cultivation practices.

Helping turn promising products into viable businesses are Taste Bud, which connects FoodTech and BioTech innovators with funding and startup support through initiatives such as TED Youth Startup; Thinkmate Business Advisory Company Limited, specializing in financial and business planning, taxation and management; and Seabra Trans International Co., Ltd., which brings international trade, shipping and logistics expertise.

Completing the partnership is the Federation of Thai Industries, Phetchaburi Chapter, providing valuable connections to wider industry networks and opportunities for academic and commercial collaboration.

Together, these 13 organizations give AU students access to perspectives, professional networks and practical expertise that no single classroom or laboratory could provide.

Good Ideas Deserve a Place at the Table

For the Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation, the initiative reflects an educational approach that combines scientific knowledge with creativity, commercial awareness and hands-on experience.

It also recognizes that Thailand’s food future is not simply about inventing something new. It is about finding smarter, more sustainable and more profitable ways to use the ingredients, traditions and expertise the country already possesses.

By connecting students with businesses of different sizes and specialties, AU aims to develop graduates who can contribute to food innovation from day one, whether they join an established company, support a community enterprise or launch their own venture.

With 13 new partners bringing their expertise to the table, AU is helping ensure that the next great Thai food innovation has more than a promising recipe. It has a pathway to success. 

WRITER : THE AU LIBRARY

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From Classroom to Global Boardroom AU Hosts Marian College Graduate Leadership Program

Assumption University of Thailand (AU), through the Graduate School of Business and Advanced Technology Management, successfully hosted a three-day Global Business and Leadership Program for master’s students from Marian College Kuttikkanam (Autonomous), India, from September 22 to 24, 2026.

The program combined academic learning, leadership development, cross-cultural perspectives, and industry exposure, giving participants opportunities to connect classroom concepts with the realities of an increasingly international business environment.

Learning Across Borders

Throughout the three-day program, students took part in sessions exploring global business practices, cross-cultural management, empowerment, and change leadership.

The program was led by three of Assumption University’s distinguished faculty members, Dr. Bhumiphat Gilitwala, Dr. Somchai Tantasanee, and Dr. Sirichai Preudhikulpradab, who brought academic expertise, professional experience, and leadership perspectives into each session. Through engaging discussions and practical insights, they encouraged students to look beyond theory, examine business challenges from an international perspective, and connect new ideas with their own professional and leadership development.

Drawing on their academic and professional experience, the faculty encouraged students to examine contemporary management challenges, exchange ideas, and consider how leadership principles can be applied to their own personal and professional development.

From Theory to Industry

Adding a practical dimension to the program, participants joined an industrial visit to MG Motor, where they gained first-hand exposure to business and operational practices within the automotive industry.

The visit helped students connect academic concepts with real-world applications while expanding their understanding of how international companies operate, adapt, and compete in today’s business environment.

Celebrating Achievement

The program concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony recognizing the students’ successful completion of the three-day learning experience.

Rev. Bro. Sirichai Fonseka, f.s.g., Ph.D., President of Assumption University of Thailand, presented certificates to the participating students and congratulated them on their achievement.

Group photographs marked the conclusion of the program and celebrated another meaningful academic collaboration between Assumption University and Marian College Kuttikkanam (Autonomous).

Through programs such as this, Assumption University continues to provide opportunities for international academic exchange, practical learning, and leadership development while strengthening connections with higher education partners across the region and beyond.

WRITER: SIRICHAI PREUDHIKULPRADAB

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