Founded in March 1917, Chulalongkorn University is Thailand’s first institution of higher learning. The groundwork and preparation for the university’s establishment, however, took place almost half a century earlier. The worldwide economic, social and political changes in the late nineteenth century compelled Siam, as Thailand was officially called until 1939, to adapt in order to avoid Western colonization. King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) introduced a royal policy to strengthen and improve the government so that the country could successfully resist the tides of colonialism. One of the major parts of this policy was to improve the Siamese educational system to produce capable personnel to work in both the public and private sectors.
To this end, a school was founded in 1871 at the Royal Pages Barracks within the Grand Palace compound. Then, in 1882, King Chulalongkorn upgraded the school and gave it the name “Suankularb”. In the same year, the King also established other schools, including the Army Cadet School, the Cartographic School, the School for Princes and the School for Dhamma Studies.
All of our subjects, from our royal children down to the lowest commoners, will have the same opportunity to study – be they royals, nobles or commoners.
The main mission of Chulalongkorn University is to be the center for academic learning and professional excellence. This is in line with the vision of the university’s founder, King Rama VI, who established the university as a tribute to his father, King Rama V.
Through the pursuit, development, dissemination and application of knowledge, Chulalongkorn University works to educate students with professional know-how and research skills, as well as preserve the arts, culture, and values. In addition to academic knowledge and learning, the university hopes to instill in students a sense of morality, social responsibility, and public service.
The name bestowed upon this university is “Chulalongkorn” – it will forever remain with you wherever you go and in whatever you do – good or bad. For this reason, each time you perform any deed make sure you do so with discernment and have the foresight to weigh the benefits and losses.
Speech of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej delivered at the commencement ceremony for graduates of Chulalongkorn University, May 21, 1950.
To celebrate Chulalongkorn University’s 100th year in 2017, the Chula community is invited to participate in the festivities commemorating this momentous event. These festivities will include the culmination of historic facts and information, moments of immense pride and activities organized in celebration of and as a gesture of gratitude to this beloved alma mater. Over the century, the university has upheld the royal intention of HM King Chulalongkorn and HM King Vajiravudh to establish an institute of higher learning, and endow its graduates with both the education and the ability to serve and develop the country.
Throughout the past 100 years Chula graduates have served the people by applying their knowledge and expertise for the betterment of society and contributing towards the development of the nation in all relevant areas. In the century to come, we shall move forward with the motto, “thinking and doing for the good of society”, and develop approaches to move society forward. By creating innovations and producing highly qualified personnel in all aspects and dimensions, the Chula community will continue to play its part in strengthening Thai society as well as connecting and cooperating with the world community.
