WRITER: THOMAS AQUINAS SCHOOL OF LAW
On Monday 7th August 2023, approximately 120 Thomas Aquinas School of Law Members comprised of the Dean, Lecturers, and Students from various years participated in the “Rapee Day Ceremony and 1st Academic Visit” of the Academic Year 2023”. An enlightening field trip took law lecturers and law students behind the scenes of the Nation’s core institutions which were the Supreme Court, The Thai Bar Association under the Royal Patronage, and the National Assembly, fostering a deeper understanding of law, justice, and democracy.
The trip offered an unparalleled opportunity for young minds to delve into the intricacies of the nation’s law and court reformation system and democratic governance with the objectives are to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of HRH Prince Rapee Pattanasak’s works, life, and contribution toward the reformation of Thailand’s law and court systems in the reign of King Rama V, Evolution of legal education in Thailand, the Importance and preparation of the Barrister-at-Law Program, and Legislative processes under the constitution, as well as to disseminate the university’s reputation and identity to the public.
The marvelous trip started in the early morning at the Supreme Court to commemorate and pay respect by presenting a flower wreath to Prince Rapee’s statue in front of the Court of Justice Building. Not only Assumption University Law School, but also more than 100 organizations of the legal profession and academic institutes nationwide joined this ceremony to show their gratitude and thankfulness to the Father of Thailand’s Modern Law and Court System. In this regard, all participating students learned more about the significant causes why Thailand had to reform its public administration including law and court systems, also development principles that finally make Thailand’s law and judicial process have been standardized and trusted as same as other civilized countries.
After that, Law School members travelled to the Thai Bar Association under the Royal Patronage for a field trip purpose. Students had a great opportunity to directly learn about the evolution of Thailand’s legal education, the background, roles, and functions of the Thai Bar Association, and self-preparation guideline for the study of the Barrister-at-Law Program after a Bachelor of Laws graduation in the future. At this place, students were introduced to eminent legal professionals who navigate the complexities of Thailand’s legal system. Engaging interactions with seasoned lawyers shed light on the practical challenges and ethical dilemmas faced in the field of law. The students’ inquiries were met with enthusiasm, fostering a spirit of curiosity and contemplation about legal careers. The participants also obtained a very warm reception from Mr. Sakda Choungrungsri, Secretary General of the Training Bureau, who kindly delivered a welcoming speech and a special lecture on “Authorities and Roles of The Thai Bar Association and How to Succeed in the Barrister-at-Law Study”, and took lecturers and students to take a tour of the library, lecture rooms, hall of fame, bookstore, registration system, teaching and learning process, examination management, and other learning support facilities. Students also enjoyed shopping here for several kinds of law books with very special discounts on the occasion of Rapee Day this year.
In the afternoon, the final stop of the excursion was the iconic “National Assembly” building, or “Sappaya-Sapasathan”, Dusit District, Bangkok, where the future legislators had the privilege of immersing themselves in the heart of democratic governance. Through guided tours and interactive sessions with parliamentarians, the lecturers and the students discovered the inner workings of legislative processes, the architectural design concept, authorities and duties of the parliament in the aspect of the House of Representative Members, check and balance system toward the Executive Power, and the legislative process in the law enactment and the law amendment as to the constitution provisions. The experience kindled aspirations of active civic participation among the young attendees.
As the students returned to school, their minds abuzz with newfound insights, it was evident that the trip had succeeded in its objective: bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical experience. Through their engagement with the Supreme Court, Thai Bar Association, and National Assembly, these young learners now possess a more profound appreciation for the tenets of justice, the intricacies of law, and the essence of democracy.
“This educational journey was not only a testament to the commitment of Thomas Aquinas School of Law to holistic education but also a stepping stone for these students toward becoming informed, responsible, and engaged citizens of Thailand.” said Asst. Prof. Dr. Sthianrapab Naluang, the Dean of the Law School.
Every 7th August annually is “Rapee Day” to commemorate HRH Prince Rapee Pattanasak, the Father of Thailand’s Law and Court System, for his significant modernization efforts, which included reforms in the legal and judicial systems. He was a key person who initiated a series of reforms aimed at modernizing various aspects of Thai society, including the legal and court systems. He established a foundation for a more organized and structured legal framework and introduced Western legal concepts to Thailand. His efforts laid the groundwork for the development of a more comprehensive legal system, including the establishment of courts, laws, legal institutions, and law schools. His legacy in this area continues to influence Thailand's legal and judicial practices to this day.
This impressive trip was actively and effectively co-organized by the School of Law Student Committee, and the Asian Law Students Association of Assumption University (ALSA AU) Committee.
More Information about Thomas Aquinas School of Law, please visit:
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