16.2.2 Students’ union
Description of Activity
Srinakharinwirot University officially recognizes the Students’ Union as an independent representative organization for all students. The Union is approved and operates under the Division of Student Affairs, serving as a central mechanism for student participation in governance and decision-making processes for students' benefits within the University.
The Students’ Union is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing various student activities that enhance students’ quality of life. It plays a crucial role in fostering both physical and mental well-being, supporting students through diverse programs, workshops, and activities both inside and outside the classroom.
Evidence of Implementation
The Students’ Union is officially established under university regulations and operates with a recognized governance structure.
It serves as a representative body for students in various committees and meetings concerning university affairs.
The Union manages and monitors student activities and budget allocations to ensure transparency and accountability.
Activities organized by the Students’ Union include community engagement, leadership development, sports, and cultural programs that promote inclusivity and democratic participation.
Impact and Alignment with SDG 16
The establishment and active operation of the Students’ Union demonstrate Srinakharinwirot University’s commitment to "good governance" and "democratic participation" within higher education. Through its representative functions, transparent management practices, and student empowerment initiatives, the Union contributes directly to the promotion of peaceful, just, and inclusive institutions.
This structure ensures that students’ voices are valued in institutional governance and that their well-being, rights, and interests are continually supported through participatory and transparent processes.
Students' Union Structure
Under the supervision of the Division of Student Affairs, Srinakharinwirot University has developed a well-defined structure for its Students’ Union, consisting of three main bodies:
Student Council
Student Organization
Volunteer Center
These three components collectively form the central framework of the Students’ Union, ensuring comprehensive representation and engagement of students across the entire university.
The Student Council functions as the legislative body, representing student voices in university policy discussions and decision-making processes. The Student Organization is in charge of planning and carrying out student-led events, academic and cultural events, and programs to help students become leaders. Meanwhile, the Volunteer Center focuses on promoting social responsibility and community engagement through various volunteer and service-learning projects.
Together, these bodies embody the principles of good governance, participation, and transparency in student affairs. They not only support the well-being and development of students but also strengthen the university’s contribution to society through civic engagement and volunteerism.
This combined setup shows that Srinakharinwirot University is dedicated to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by encouraging democratic involvement, and social responsibility.
Source: http://studentaffairs.op.swu.ac.th/Portals/25/02_1.pdf?ver=MgwJmZzVuqIlpT63DC59qw%3d%3d
1. Student Council of Srinakharinwirot University
The Student Council serves as the legislative and supervisory body within the Students’ Union, operating under the Division of Student Affairs. It is entrusted with protecting student interests, promoting democratic participation, and ensuring transparency in student governance.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Safeguard the interests of students and the university community.
Review and approve the plans, projects, and budgets proposed by the Student Organization, student clubs, and faculties’ student associations.
Monitor and audit the implementation of activities and the use of allocated budgets to ensure they align with approved plans and university policies.
Oversee the operations of the Student Organization to ensure compliance with university regulations and directives.
Provide recommendations and opinions on student-related matters to the university administration.
Review and endorse the establishment or dissolution of student clubs before submission to the university for approval.
Recommend the appointment of students to serve on special committees or task forces when deemed appropriate.
Conduct votes of no confidence in individual or collective members of the Student Organization Executive Committee when accountability concerns arise.
Election and Governance Process:
Members of the Student Council and its Executive Committee are elected in accordance with university regulations. Official university announcements stipulate transparent and fair procedures for meetings, voting, and vote counting.
The president of the Student Council of Srinakharinwirot University, academic year 2024
2. Student Organization of Srinakharinwirot University
The Student Organization of Srinakharinwirot University serves as the official representative body of all students, acting as a bridge between students and both internal and external university stakeholders. Its mission is to protect students’ rights and interests, promote holistic development, and strengthen student participation in university life and governance.
The Student Organization is primarily responsible for planning, implementing, and coordinating annual student activities and initiatives in collaboration with relevant departments and external partners. It plays a central role in managing and supporting 20 faculty/college-level student associations and four specialized divisions (44 clubs) that focus on distinct dimensions of student development and engagement:
Academic Affairs Division – Promotes academic enrichment and knowledge-sharing through academic seminars, intellectual competitions, and knowledge exchange programs among students.
Ethics, Culture, and Arts Division – Supports activities that cultivate moral values, ethical awareness, and appreciation of Thai arts and culture, including religious observances, traditional ceremonies, and moral volunteer projects.
Public Service Division – Focuses on community service and volunteerism through projects such as community outreach, environmental conservation, and local development initiatives, promoting active citizenship and social responsibility.
Personality Development and Sports Division – Encourages personal growth, confidence-building, and well-being through sports competitions, health promotion activities, and personality development programs.
Through these integrated functions, the Student Organization fosters an inclusive and dynamic student community that values academic excellence, ethics, community service, and well-being. It exemplifies student leadership in practice and contributes to building a participatory and responsible university environment.
Relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Promotes physical and mental well-being through sports, personality development, and wellness activities.
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Enhances learning beyond the classroom through academic and experiential learning initiatives.
SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Strengthens community engagement and sustainability through volunteer and social development projects.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Encourages democratic participation, transparency, and student leadership in institutional governance.
The president of the Student Organization of Srinakharinwirot University, academic year 2024
3. SWU Volunteer Center
The “SWU Volunteer Center” promotes a strong culture of volunteerism among students, encouraging them to become socially responsible citizens who actively contribute to the well-being of their communities. The Center aims to instill values of empathy, generosity, and civic-mindedness—qualities that help lay the foundation for a compassionate and sustainable society.
This initiative reflects the university’s core identity as a “University for Social Engagement”, emphasizing the belief that higher education should not only foster academic excellence but also cultivate socially conscious graduates who give back to society.
Since its establishment, the SWU Volunteer Center has continuously organized a wide range of volunteer and community service programs, engaging large numbers of students in meaningful projects that address social, environmental, and developmental needs. These activities include community outreach programs, educational support for underprivileged groups, public health promotion, and environmental conservation.
Through these efforts, the Center has become widely recognized both within and outside the university as a driving force for positive social change. It provides students with hands-on learning experiences that strengthen leadership, teamwork, and moral development—core components of holistic education.
Relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Enhances experiential learning through volunteer-based education and community service.
SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Supports sustainable social and environmental development through ongoing volunteer initiatives.
SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: Encourages active citizenship and participation in building fair and inclusive communities.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthens collaboration between the university, local communities, and partner organizations in promoting social well-being.
Impact and Alignment
The SWU Volunteer Center exemplifies Good Governance and Social Responsibility in Higher Education, aligning with Srinakharinwirot University’s commitment to being a socially engaged institution. By nurturing students who lead with compassion and purpose, the Center directly contributes to the creation of a new generation of graduates who are equipped to drive sustainable social transformation in Thailand and beyond.
Summary
Through its structured Students’ Union, Srinakharinwirot University ensures that every student has a voice in shaping university life and contributing to society. The integrated model—comprising the Student Council, Student Organization, and SWU Volunteer Center—demonstrates the university’s firm commitment to democracy, transparency, and social responsibility. This governance framework not only supports effective institutional management but also nurtures socially conscious graduates who will continue to advance sustainable development at both local and national levels.
Evidence of Implementation
The Students' Union structure has received official university approval and recognition under the Division of Student Affairs.
Regular meetings and elections for Student Council members conducted transparently according to university regulations.
Annual plans, budgets, and activity reports submitted and reviewed by the Student Council for monitoring and accountability.
Documentation of student-led projects under the Student Organization and Volunteer Center, including photos, reports, and partnerships with local communities.
In summary, under the administration of the Students’ Union, Srinakharinwirot University provides a comprehensive framework that empowers students to participate in university governance and contribute to the university community. The Students’ Union plays seven key roles as follows:
Representation of Students’ Rights and Interests
Acts as the official voice of students in advocating for their rights, welfare, and academic interests with the university administration, ensuring that student perspectives are included in institutional decision-making.
Organization of Diverse Student Activities
Initiates and supports a wide range of student-led activities in the areas of academics, sports, recreation, arts and culture, and social engagement—enhancing the overall student experience and campus life.
Promotion of Holistic Student Development
The program encourages students to develop various life skills and leadership competencies through active participation in activities organized by the university, student clubs, and other departments.
Support and Mentorship for Student Initiatives
The department provides consultation and guidance to students, which includes project proposal writing, budget planning, and coordination with university offices for funding and resource support.
Organizational and Administrative Management
Oversees internal governance within the Students’ Union, including the election and appointment of key positions such as the President of the Student Council, the President of the Student Organization, and the Head of the Volunteer Center. The Union also monitors the performance of affiliated units and serves as a communication bridge between the university and the student body.
Promotion of Democratic Participation
It works by following democratic rules, setting up clear elections for student leaders, and encouraging students to get involved, act ethically in campaigns, and talk openly with each other. This program provides real-world learning experiences in democracy and governance.
Support for Student Clubs and Associations
The department assists and monitors other student associations and clubs within the university, providing budgetary support, quality assurance, and coordination to ensure effective and transparent activity implementation.