Vol. 18 No. 2 June 2013

SIIT Day 2013On June 28, 1996, His Majesty the King graciously granted the name “Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology” to theInstitute. This year, the Institute celebrated “SIIT Day” during June 26-28, 2013, at the SIIT Main Building, ThammasatUniversity (TU), Rangsit Center.

In the morning of June 28, SIIT students, faculty members, and staff members jointly organized and participated in the meritmaking by offering food to monks, both at Rangsit and Bangkadi campuses. Additionally, there were game and sport competitions,technical and academic competitions (Egg-Dropping Competition, Spelling Bee Competition, and General Science and MathQuiz), and an SIIT Got Talent Contest.

In the afternoon session, a special lecture on “Application of ‘Origami’ Engineering” was presented byProfessor Hiroaki Morimura, a specialist from the Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech), Japan.

As a part of the ceremony, the “SIIT Long ServiceAwards” were presented to SIIT faculty and staffmembers. Recipients with 20 service years: ProfessorDr. Somnuk Tangtermsirikul (SIIT Director), Assoc. Prof.Dr. Suebsak Nanthavanij (School of ManagementTechnology), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pisal Yenradee (Schoolof Manufacturing Systems and MechanicalEngineering), and Mr. Sompong Aim-oat (Building andGround Division, Rangsit).

Recipients with 10 service years: Assoc. Prof. Dr.Bunyarit Uyyanonvara (School of Information, Computer,

and Communication Technology), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luckhana Lawtrakul (School of Bio-Chemical Engineering and Technology),Mr. Terrance John Downey (Department of Common and Graduate Studies), Mr. Jerapan Intasang (Computer and AudiovisualCenter), Mr. Wutthichai Khamsingh (Library and Information Services Center), Mr. Nattapat Thong-u (School of Civil Engineeringand Technology), Ms. Yaowaluk Laothoh (Finance and Budget Division), Ms. Pairunya Chaichana (International Affairs andCorporate Relations Division), Ms. Ajarathorn Tivanon (Central Coordinating Division), and Mr. Jedsada Sangnak (Building andGround Division, Rangsit).

Academic Collaborations with Vietnamese UniversitiesThe ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which is to be fully implemented by 2015, will affect the higher education systems inSoutheast Asia. This policy is likely to facilitate the mobilization of students and staff amongst the educational institutionsacross ASEAN countries. Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT) is taking this opportunity to forge furthercollaborations with leading universities in Vietnam and recruit Vietnamese talents for graduate studies at SIIT.

On May 27-30, 2013, a delegation of 12 members led by Prof. Dr. Somnuk Tangtermsirikul (Director of SIIT) visited leadinguniversities in Vietnam, accompanied by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweep Chaisomphob (Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, ThammasatUniversity (TU)), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalie Charoenlarpnopparut (Assistant to the Rector for Student Affairs, TU), Assoc. Prof. Dr.Waree Kongprawechnon (Assistant Director for International Affairs and Corporate Relations), Asst. Prof. Dr. Chawalit Jeenanunta(Head of the School of Management Technology (MT) and Coordinator of MT Curriculum), Asst. Prof. Dr. Mongkut Piantanakulchai(Head of the School of Civil Engineering and Technology (CET) and Coordinator of Civil Engineering (CE) Curriculum), Assoc.Prof. Dr. Suebsak Nanthavanij (a faculty member of the School of MT), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Satha Aphornratana and Assoc. Prof.Dr. Pisal Yenradee (both faculty members of the School of Manufacturing Systems and Mechanical Engineering (MSME)), Asst.Prof. Dr. Wanwipa Siriwatwechakul (a faculty member of the School of Bio-Chemical Engineering and Technology (BCET)),Assoc. Prof. Dr. Komwut Wipusitwarakun and Dr. Nguyen Duy Hung (both from the School of Information, Computer, andCommunication Technology (ICT)).

On the first day of the trip, the delegation visited National University ofCivil Engineering (NUCE). The university was founded in 1966 and islocated in the center of Hanoi. It produces the largest number of civilengineers in Vietnam. Currently, there are about 30,000 students inmatriculation, in both graduate and undergraduate programs. Besidesthe field of civil engineering, the university has offered a number ofacademic programs related to the construction area, such as Institute ofEnvironmental Science and Engineering (IESE), Faculty of ConstructionEconomics and Management, Faculty of Construction MechanicalEngineering, and Faculty of Information Technology.

On the following day, the SIIT delegation visited Hanoi University of Science and Technology(HUST). It is the largest technical university in Vietnam and was established in 1956. It is amember of AUN/SEED-Net and has cooperation in research and training with universitiesaround the world in 32 countries. While HUST has a strong partnership with several universitiesin Thailand, it currently does not have collaboration with Thammasat University. SIIT plansto extend the partnership with HUST by initiating an MOU between the two universities.

In the afternoon, the delegation visited Hanoi ArchitecturalUniversity (HAU). The university is organized into four major blocksthat cover all areas related to architecture and urban planning.These include: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Faculty of InfrastructureTechniques and Urban Environment, and Faculty of UrbanManagement. HAU expressed keen interest in establishing apartnership with the School of MT for the development of student/faculty exchange programs.

On the third day, the SIIT delegation traveled from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in the morning,and visited Ho Chi Minh City International University (HCMIU) in the afternoon. The universityis one of the six member universities of Vietnam National University. HCMIU was establishedin 2003 as an interdisciplinary university and the first public university in Vietnam that usesEnglish as the primary language in teaching and research. It offers academic programs infields of economics, management, science, and technology.

SIIT Delegation in discussion with the Rector and Vice Rector of the National University of Civil Engineering (NUCE)

From left, Assoc. Prof. Hoang-Luong Pham (Vice President of HUST) and Prof. Dr. Somnuk Tangtermsirikul (Director of SIIT)

SIIT delegation and representative faculty members of Hanoi Architectural University

From left, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong (Rector of HCMIU)and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweep Chaisomphob (Vice Rector forAcademic Affairs, TU)

SIIT News, June 20132

The last university that the delegation visited before leaving Vietnam was Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT).There are approximately 27,000 students in enrollment (both part-time and full-time). The university is a member of AUN/

SEED-Net, and it offers a wide range of academicand exchange programs by partnering withuniversities in different countries such as France,Australia, and Japan. HCMUT has expressedinterest in establishing a partnership with SIIT. Itsfaculty members also have shown keen interest inparticipating in the visiting faculty program offeredby SIIT. In addition, the SIIT delegation was givenan opportunity to tour the university’s academic andresearch laboratories.

The academic collaboration between the above mentioned universities and SIIT would also include student/faculty exchange,EFS scholarships for top students, joint conferences, etc.

SIIT delegation and representative faculty members of HCMUT

KUT-SIIT Study TourProfessors, staff members, and students from KochiUniversity of Technology (KUT), Japan, visitedSirindhorn International Institute of Technology(SIIT) as a part of their Thai Study Tour during March21-23, 2013. KUT is an SIIT partner university whichhas established strong collaboration with SIIT onboth academic and student exchanges. On the firstday, KUT and SIIT students gave presentations abouttheir universities, and participated in a workshopabout the differences between Thai and Japaneseculture. The second day was a field trip to PhraNakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. KUT students were accompanied by SIIT students as their “buddies” to visit temples and theElephant Camp where they had a chance to learn a brief history of Thailand. On the last day, the group visited the GrandPalace and did some sightseeing in Bangkok. This study tour provided a good opportunity for students from both universitiesto expand their horizons and establish a good friendship with fellow students from the other university.

Visit to Tokyo Institute of Technology, JapanOn June 14, 2013, two staff members from the Student Affairs and Alumni Relations Division of SIIT: Ms. Waraporn Thongthua(Division Chief) and Ms. Chonticha Patchotchai (Staff for Graduate Scholarship Programs) visited Tokyo Institute of Technology,Ookayama Campus, Japan. The purpose of the visit was to exchange useful information regarding campus overview, facilitiesfor students, library, international cooperation, student exchange program, scholarships, student counseling, and studentservices. This visit was sponsored under collaborations of (1) Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan (2) School of Information,Computer, and Communication Technology (ICT) of SIIT, and (3) Transportation Research Center (TREC) of SIIT.

Special thanks are given to the professor and staff members of Tokyo Tech for their fantastic welcome: Professor Kenji Saito(Counselor, Health Service Center), Mr. Tadatoshi Kaneko (Director, International Affairs Department), Ms. Yuka Tsukada(Head, International Cooperation Division – International Affairs Department), Ms. Chinatsu Watanabe (Group Leader,International Activities Group – International Affairs Division), Ms. Akiko Terauchi (TAIST Coordinator, International ActivitiesGroup – International Affairs Division), Mr. Kazuyoshi Sakamoto (Staff, International Student Exchange Division – InternationalAffairs Department), Ms. Kimika Iwata (Staff, Planning and Coordination Group, International Cooperation Division – InternationalAffairs Department), Ms. Masumi Aida (Staff, International Activities Group, International Affairs Division – InternationalAffairs Division), Mr. Sei Konishi (Group Leader, Financial Aid Group, Student Support Division, Student Service Department),and Mr. Tsugihiro Simura (Group Leader, Graduate Admission Group, Admission Division – Student Service Department).

SIIT News, June 2013 3

New Faculty MembersDr. Nguyen Duy Hung and Dr. Sasiporn Usanavasin joined SIIT as full-time faculty members of the School of Information,Computer, and Communication Technology (ICT) in May and June, 2013, respectively.

Dr. Nguyen Duy Hung obtained hisB.Eng. in Electronics andTelecommunication from Hanoi Universityof Technology (Vietnam). He received hisM.Eng. in Computer Science and Ph.D.in Remote Sensing and GIS, both fromthe Asian Institute of Technology (AIT),Thailand. His research areas includeartificial intelligence, multi-agents,argumentation, proof procedures,

dialogues, contract dispute resolution systems, sensornetworks, and geographic information systems.

Dr. Sasiporn Usanavasin received herB.Sc. (1st Class Honors) in InformationTechnology from Sirindhorn InternationalInstitute of Technology (SIIT),Thammasat University (Thailand). Shereceived her M.Eng. and Ph.D. inSoftware Engineering from KeioUniversity (Japan). Her research areasinclude software engineering, semanticweb and knowledge engineering, and

service science and service innovation.

SIIT Received “Excellent” Rating for2011 Research Outcomes Assessment by TRF

The Thailand Research Fund (TRF) assessed research outcomes for the year 2009 and 2010 for 34 participating public andprivate universities in Thailand. Four indicators were used in assessing the research outcomes:

Indicator 1: Equivalent International Journal Papers/Faculty MemberIndicator 2: Impact Factor/Faculty MemberIndicator 3: Equivalent International Journal PapersIndicator 4: Impact Factor

According to the 4 indicators, participants’ research outcomes were classified into 5 levels: Level 5 – Excellent, Level 4 – VeryGood, Level 3 – Good, Level 2 – Fair, and Level 1 – To Be Improved.

On March 12, 2013, TRF announced the 2011 research outcomes assessment at the Century Park Hotel, Bangkok. SirindhornInternational Institute of Technology (SIIT), Thammasat University (TU), received the highest rating of “Level 5 – Excellent”for the Engineering and Technology categories. For the Engineering category, the Civil Engineering (CE), Mechanical Engineering(ME), and Electronics and Communication Engineering (EC) Programs received the highest rating in their correspondingfields. The Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science (CS) Programs also received the highest rating in Informationand Communication Technology/Computer Engineering/Informatics field for the Technology category. In addition, TU receivedan award from TRF for having the highest number of excellent ratings in the Engineering and Technology categories.

Recipient of Outstanding NRU Project AwardProf. Dr. Somnuk Tangtermsirikul, SIIT Director, received an “OutstandingNRU Project Award” and was invited to give a presentation on“Technology Development for Sustainability of Construction Industry inThailand” at the 2nd Thailand National Research University Summit(ThaiNRU II), which was organized by the Office of the Higher EducationCommission during May 7-8, 2013 at the Queen Sirikit NationalConvention Center. Prof. Somnuk’s research was one of the projectsunder the Industry Supracluster, chaired by Prof. Dr. Piyasarn Praserthdam(Chulalongkorn University). Prof. Somnuk’s research team consists ofDr. Chalermchai Wanichlamlert, Dr. Pakawat Sancharoen, Dr. PongsakChoktaweekarn, Dr. Raktipong Sahamitmongkol, and Dr. WarangkanaSaengsoy, all from the Construction and Maintenance Technology

Research Center (CONTEC), SIIT. The aim of this research was to develop technologies for sustainability of the constructionindustry in Thailand.

SIIT News, June 20134

BCET Faculty Members Won a Gold Medal and a Special Prizeat the 41st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva

Asst. Prof. Dr. Pisanu Toochinda (Head of the School of Bio-Chemical Engineering and Technology, BCET) and Assoc. Prof. Dr.Luckhana Lawtrakul (a faculty member of the School of BCET) won a Gold Medal and a special prize of Excellent Achievementfrom the Malaysian Association of Research Scientists (MARS) at the 41st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva.The event was held at the Palexpo Exhibition Center, Geneva, Switzerland, on April 10-14, 2013. Both winners were recognizedfor their invention entitled “Nanoencapsulation of Active Compounds from Plants using Beta-cyclodextrin and MicrowaveEnhancement.” The Gold Medal was awarded in the category of “Foodstuffs – Drinks – Cosmetics – Paramedical – HealthHygiene.”

TU Outstanding Thesis Award 2011Ms. Pitchakan Theekakul, a master’s degree student of the School of Information,Computer, and Communication Technology (ICT), received an “Outstanding ThesisAward 2011” from Thammasat University (TU) for her thesis entitled “A Semantic-based Reasoning Framework for Pervasive Sensing.” Her thesis research wassupervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ekawit Nantajeewarawat (Assistant Director forGeneral Administration, Bangkadi Campus and a faculty member of the Schoolof Information, Computer, and Communication Technology - ICT, SIIT) and Asst.Prof. Dr. Surapa Thiemjarus (National Electronics and Computer TechnologyCenter - NECTEC). Her study was financially supported by Thailand AdvancedInstitute of Science and Technology, National Science and TechnologyDevelopment Agency, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Sirindhorn InternationalInstitute of Technology.

From left, Asst. Prof. Dr. Surapa Thiemjarus, Ms.Pitchakan Theekakul, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. EkawitNantajeewarawat

SIIT Students Won Award from theThaioil Group Energy Innovation Contest 2012

Mr. Veerapat Sucheewaboripont, Mr. Chanon Thamromdee, and Mr. Pitthayuth Rujichaiwat (fourth-year Mechanical Engineering(ME) students) won the 2nd runner-up in the Thaioil Group Energy Innovation Contest 2012 for their project entitled “WindBooster for Low Wind Speed Turbine Project.” The wind booster in this project is designed with a nozzle and guide vane soconventional vertical-axis wind turbines can gain more efficiency of energy conversion. This project was conducted undersupervision of Prof. Dr. Thananchai Leephakpreeda.

The contest was organized by the Thaioil Public Company Limited and the Petroleum and Petrochemical College, ChulalongkornUniversity. The awards presentation was at the Petroleum and Petrochemical College, Chulalongkorn University. The recipientsreceived 30,000 baht in cash and trophies.

From left, Mr. Pitthayuth Rujichaiwat, Mr. Veerasak Kositpaisal (CEO, Thaioil Public Company Limited),Mr. Veerapat Sucheewaboripont, and Mr. Chanon Thamromdee

SIIT News, June 2013 5

2012 SIIT Best Teaching AwardsOn June 28, 2013, as a part of the “SIIT Day 2013” celebration, the SIIT Director presented the Best Teaching Awards of theacademic year 2012 to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jirachai Buddhakulsomsiri (from Rangsit Campus) and Asst. Prof. Dr. Suthathip Suanmali(from Bangkadi Campus).

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jirachai Buddhakulsomsiri is the Coordinator of Industrial Engineering (IE)Curriculum, School of Manufacturing Systems and Mechanical Engineering (MSME). He receivedhis B.Eng. in Chemical Engineering from Chulalongkorn University (Thailand), M.S. in Statisticsand Industrial Engineering, and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, both from Oregon State University(USA). His research areas include applied operations research, production planning and control,systems simulation, engineering economics analysis, and logistics and supply chain management.In the academic year 2012, he taught the following courses: IES 302 (Engineering Statistics), IES 315 (Methods Analysis andWork Measurement Laboratory), IES 331 (Quality Control), IES 362 (Manufacturing Engineering Laboratory I), IES 376 (Logisticsand Supply Chain Management), IES 391 (Applied Statistical Methods), and SE 616 (Design of Experiments in Supply ChainSystems).

Asst. Prof. Dr. Suthathip Suanmali is a faculty member of the School of Management Technology(MT). This is her second award in this category. She received her first Best Teaching Award in theacademic year 2008. Dr. Suthathip received her B.S. in Mathematics and Financial Economics(Summa Cum Laude) from Methodist University (USA), M.S. in Applied Mathematics, and Ph.D. inMathematics, both from North Carolina State University (USA). Her research areas include appliedlinear algebra, highway assets maintenance and management systems, regional trade analysis,and cross border trade facilitation. In the academic year 2012, she taught the following two

courses (4 sections): MTS 251 (Resource Economics) and MTS 334 (Applications of Business Statistics).

SIIT Distinguished Young Alumni AwardThe “SIIT Distinguished Young Alumni Award” recognizes SIIT alumni having a minimum of five years of work experience, andwith outstanding achievements in their profession, governmental affairs, or social contributions. The honorees will serve asrole models for SIIT students and other alumni. This year, SIIT proudly presented the SIIT Distinguished Young Alumni Awardto Mr. Pitipat Preedanont at the “SIIT Day 2013” Ceremony on June 28, 2013.

Mr. Pitipat (a 1998 graduate with B.Eng. in Civil Engineering) is currently a Managing Director and/or Director in all affiliated companies of PREEDA Group. PREEDA Group has been one of theleading construction companies in Thailand during the past 40 years. Recently, PREEDA Group hassuccessfully evolved into a full-scale real estate developer.

Mr. Pitipat was recruited by the Thai Condominium Association, and has been working as one ofthe directors in the association. He enthusiastically participates and helps organized activities

hosted by the association. He was recently assigned to lead the coordination task in hosting The House and Condo Show No.27 and No. 28 by the Thai Condominium Association, Housing Business Association, and Thai Real Estate Association.

Aside from his main businesses, Mr. Pitipat has always been active in professional networking, and Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) activities. He was selected as a President of SCB Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP) #13. He initiated and led a verysuccessful CSR campaign to raise funds of almost 3 million baht for helping the elderly with Cataract disease in 2012.

Additionally, Mr. Pitipat recently was selected among several successful business owners to be a co-host in a cable TVprogram named “Smart Focus” on Smart SME Channel True 25.

“Sanya Dharmasakti Day” in Academic Year 2012On April 5, 2013, a ceremony to celebrate “Sanya Dharmasakti Day” for theacademic year 2012 was held at Thammasat University (TU), Rangsit Center.On this occasion, SIIT faculty and staff members, and students prepared aset of Phan Phum, which is a floral arrangement on a pedestal tray, andpresented it to the statue of Professor Sanya Dharmasakti to pay respect.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Veeris Ammarapala (Assistant Director for Student Affairs andAlumni Relations, SIIT), as the representative of the SIIT Director, togetherwith Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalie Charoenlarpnopparut (Assistant Rector for StudentAffairs, TU), staff members, and students (representatives of the SIIT StudentCommittee) participated in this activity to present a Phan Phum from SIIT tothe statue of Professor Sanya Dharmasakti.

SIIT News, June 20136

“Pridi Banomyong” DayOn May 11, 2013, a ceremony to celebrate the “Pridi Banomyong” Day was held at Thammasat University (TU), Tha Pra ChanCenter. On this occasion, SIIT faculty and staff members, and students prepared a set of Phan Phum, which are floralarrangements on a pedestal tray, and presented it to the statue of Professor Dr. Pridi Banomyong (the Founder of TU).

Assistant Professor Dr. Veeris Ammarapala (Assistant Director for Student Affairs and Alumni Relations, SIIT) as therepresentative of the SIIT Director, Associate Professor Dr. Chalie Charoenlarpnopparut (a faculty member of SIIT and alsothe Assistant Rector for Student Affairs of TU), Ms. Suchaya Rattanangam, Ms. Chonticha Patchotchai, and the representativesof SIIT Student Committee (Mr. Varakorn Autadej, Mr. Photpinit Kalayanuwatchai, Mr. Paloch Suchato, Ms. Sawiya Kiatpapan,Ms. Jinjuta Charoensiri, and Ms. Tanapsorn Suebthawilkul) were representatives from SIIT in this ceremony.

The Songkran Festival at SIITIn Thailand, the Songkran festival celebrates the Thai traditional New Year. At SIIT, the Songkran festival was held at theRangsit Campus during April 9-11, 2013 by the SIIT Student Committee, Student Affairs and Alumni Relations Division, andCentral Coordinating Division.

More than 240 students and 60 faculty and staff members participated in this event to emphasize the festival’s spiritual andreligious aspects. The first activity was pouring water mixed with Thai fragrance over a Buddha image. It is believed that thispractice will bring good luck and prosperity for the new year. The second activity was “Rodnam Damhua,” a traditional wayto celebrate with the elderly (faculty and staff members) by pouring water through their hands to show respect and gratitude.

Special Seminar for SIIT Alumni

On April 10, 2013, a special seminar on “Human Resource Management Strategies” was given by Assistant Professor Dr.Veeris Ammarapala (Assistant Director for Student Affairs and Alumni Relations) and Dr. Itthisek Nilkhamhang (a coordinatorof the Electronics and Communication Engineering (EC) curriculum) for SIIT alumni. The seminar took place at RuankaewRoom, Dairy Queen Restaurant, Bang Khen, Bangkok. It was organized by the Student Affairs and Alumni Relations Divisionto not only help SIIT alumni gain more experience in human resource management strategies but also strengthen therelationship between SIIT and its alumni.

SIIT News, June 2013 7

TU Orientation for New Undergraduate StudentsCo-organized by SIIT Students

On May 19, 2013, Thammasat University (TU) organized an orientation for new undergraduate students at its Tha Pra ChanCenter. The second-year SIIT students were co-organizers of this event under a supervision of Asst. Prof. Dr. Veeris Ammarapala(Assistant Director for Student Affairs and Alumni Relations of SIIT) and the SIIT Student Committee.

This event was aimed to provide useful information (e.g., TU history, dress code, examination regulations, classrooms andlaboratories, library services, dormitories, sport complexes, and facilities for students) to new students as well as to unitethem with Thammasat’s spiritual aspect. In the evening, all freshmen were served with a very special meal with cooked ricefrom the TU Rice Farm Project (where rice was planted and harvested by senior students, and faculty and staff members ofTU). The TU rice influenced a feeling ofappreciation for TU as a whole and helpedto strengthen the bonds among the TUcommunity. The last program of the event,a very memorable “Lights and Sound” on-stage presentation, was performed toenhance the unity of TU.

Orientation for New Undergraduate Students andAwards Presentation of Academic Year 2013

SIIT held an orientation for new students of the Academic Year 2013 on June 1, 2013 at the Social Science Complex,Thammasat University (TU), Rangsit Center. This year, SIIT admitted 839 new undergraduate students. Six hundred andninety-four (694) new students, with more than 328 guardians, participated in the orientation.

Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchat (Vice Rector for Planning and Finance, TU) attended the orientation asthe guest of honor. New students were briefly informed of SIIT academic policies, regulations andprocedures, student activities, scholarships, ethics, and welfare, as well as facilities of SIIT at bothRangsit and Bangkadi campuses.

As part of the orientation, SIIT Academic ExcellenceAwards (62 silver medals for freshmen, sophomore, junior,and senior classes; and 9 silver/gold medals for thegraduating class) were presented to 64 academicallyoutstanding students. Twenty-two (22) four-year continuingscholarships and nine (9) three-year continuingscholarships from the Sirindhorn Technology Scholarship Fund were presented to academically outstanding new students andsophomore students, respectively. In addition, three (3) awards for students who have contributed to enhancing SIIT’sreputation were presented to nine (9) students (one individual activity and two group activities).

SIIT News, June 20138

Orientation for Graduate Scholarship Recipients(Semester 1/2013)

The scholarship orientation and agreement signing ceremony for the “Graduate ScholarshipProgram for Excellent Foreign Students (EFS)” and the “Graduate Scholarship Program forStudents from Neighboring Countries (SSNC)” was organized on June 5, 2013, at SIIT (RangsitCampus) by the Student Affairs and Alumni RelationsDivision.

Eighteen foreign students qualified for the EFS and SSNCscholarship programs for the 1st semester of the

academic year 2013. Sixteen of these scholarship recipients were in the EFS scholarshipprogram and the other two scholarship recipients were in the SSNC scholarship program.During the orientation, the scholarship recipients were informed of the details of the EFSand SSNC scholarship programs, including the scholarship policies, privileges, serviceobligations, and payment guidelines.

The SSNC and EFS scholarship programs are supported by the Sirindhorn Technology Scholarship Fund. The SSNC is availablefor students from the People’s Republic of Lao and the People’s Republic of Cambodia to study in a master’s degree programat SIIT. The EFS scholarship program is available for excellent students from reputable universities of any foreign countries tostudy in a master’s or a doctoral degree program at SIIT. The scholarships provide full tuition and educational support fees,living allowance, and other benefits.

Welcoming New International Students to SIIT (Semester 1/2013)The International Affairs and Corporate Relations Division held an orientation for the new international students who enrolledin courses at SIIT in semester 1/2013 on June 5, 2013 at SIIT (Rangsit Campus). There were 54 new international students,including exchange students from SIIT’s partner universities and graduate students who received SIIT graduate scholarshipsin various scholarship programs. The orientation was intended to provide new students with information about academic life,regulations, VISA, and campus life, including Thai culture.

In conjunction with this orientation event, SIIT students from the International Clubalso held a campus tour on June 6, 2013 in order to introduce new international students to the facilities around the campus.

Welcoming Activities for New SIIT StudentsSecond-year SIIT students organized two activities, namely, “First Meeting” and “SIIT-TU Campus Tour” to welcome newundergraduate students of the Academic Year 2013 under a supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Veeris Ammarapala (AssistantDirector for Student Affairs and Alumni Relations) and the SIIT Student Committee. The “First Meeting” activity was organizedon May 11, 2013 at Thammasat University (TU), Tha Pra Chan Center. More than 720 first- and second-year SIIT studentsparticipated in the activity which was intended to provide them an opportunity to meet each other for the first time, and to joinrecreational activities in order to establish unity among students.

The “SIIT-TU Campus Tour” activity was organized on June 9, 2013 before the beginning of the first semester at TU, RangsitCenter. It was intended to provide useful information about the learning facilities, buildings, and sport complexes at theRangsit Center. Moreover, it offered a good opportunity for warm relationships and unity among students. More than 880first- and second-year SIIT students participated in this activity.

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First-Aid Training for SIIT StudentsOn April 25, 2013, a “First-Aid Training for SIIT Students” activity was organized by the SIIT Student Committee at the SIITRangsit Campus. The event was led by Mr. Varakorn Autadej (President of the Student Committee of Academic Year 2013)and was under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Veeris Ammarapala (Assistant Director for Student Affairs andAlumni Relations). The objective of this activity was to teach basic first-aid procedures to SIIT senior students who volunteerto be the staff team for organizing such activities as welcoming new students, voluntary camps, game and sport competitions,etc.

Professional trainers from the Thammasat University Hospital educated students about common and precarious health problems,as well as how to deal with them in the most efficient manner. This is a crucial step to ensuring the safety of students insituations where only students are present. The workshop included techniques ranging from simple tasks such as applyingbandages, to the more complex ones, such as CPR. There were 35 students from SIIT, Faculty of Engineering, and Faculty ofArchitecture and Planning of Thammasat University participating in this activity.

Community Services by SIIT Students - Baan 11

On June 30, 2013, a group of SIIT students (Baan 11) led by Mr. Panudetch Treeweranuwat (a 2nd- year student of the Schoolof Bio-Chemical Engineering and Technology (BCET) and Head of Bann 11), under a supervision of the Student Affairs and

Alumni Relations Division, visited Khlong Khon Village (in Amphawa,Samut Songkhram Province) to participate in a mangrove forest plantingactivity. The students volunteered to rehabilitate the damagedmangroves, and, hence, help in reducing air pollution and preventingcoastal erosion as well as saline water intrusion. They also visited WatKhlong Khon, a temple in Samut Songkhram Province, to make a donationof 20,490.00 baht to the temple’s fund for constructing a new chapel.Through these activities, the students not only performed communityservices, but also developed a charity mind-set and mutual rapport.

New Exchange Students from SIIT’s Partner Universities

Austria

Mr. Maximilian Partl from Johannes Kepler University Linz (Austria) enrolled incourses in the Mechanical Engineering (ME) Curriculum.

Mr. Maximilian Partl

Johannes Kepler University Linz

SIIT News, June 201310

Brunei

University Brunei DarussalamThree students from University Brunei Darussalam, Ms. Nurul Afiqah Binti HajiMorni, Ms. Irza Binti Tuah, and Ms. Nur Nadhirah Binti Haji Ahat, enrolled in coursesat SIIT under the supervision of faculty members from the Department of Commonand Graduate Studies (CGS).

From left, Ms. Nurul Afiqah Binti Haji Morni, Ms. Irza Binti Tuah, andMs. Nur Nadhirah Binti Haji Ahat

France

European Institute of Information Technology (EPITECH)

Mr. Damien Pierre Guy Burel, Mr. Kevin Jack Pierre Mollet, Mr. ThomasPierre Gérard Levy-Mouisset, and Mr. Anouar Zemouri, all fromEuropean Institute of Information Technology (EPITECH), enrolled incourses in the Information Technology (IT) Curriculum.

From left, Mr. Damien Pierre Guy Burel, Mr. Kevin Jack Pierre Mollet,Mr. Thomas Pierre Gérard Levy-Mouisset, and Mr. Anouar Zemouri

Germany

Hochschule Ravensburg-Weingarten (HRW) University of Applied SciencesThere were seven exchange students from HRW University ofApplied Sciences. One student enrolled in courses in theComputer Science (CS) Curriculum and six students enrolledin courses in the Management Technology (MT) Curriculum.

From left, Mr. Sebastian Wanner, Mr. Fabian Martin,Mr. Jonathan Melwin Schmickl, Mr. Lukas Johannes Röhrich,Mr. Mathias Huber, and Mr. Martin Schwehr

Techniche Universität Damstadt

Two students, Mr. Cihangir Ucanand Mr. Jens Janßen, enrolledin courses in the MECurriculum.

From left, Mr. Cihangir Ucan andMr. Jens Janßen

Technische Universität Dortmund

Mr. Dominik Ring from theTechnische Universität Dortmundenrolled in courses in the IndustrialEngineering (IE) Curriculum.

Mr. Dominik Ring

Japan

Saitama University

Mr. Takashi Kakazu from Saitama University (Japan) enrolled in courses in the Civil Engineering(CE) Curriculum.

Mr. Takashi Kakazu

SIIT News, June 2013 11

The SIIT News is published quarterly by SIIT.Advisor: Prof. Dr. Somnuk TangtermsirikulEditors: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suebsak Nanthavanij

Mr. Paul V. NeilsonMr. Terrance J. Downey

Editorial Assistants: Ms. Usanee KoedlapmeesukMs. Ornanong ChoosuwanMr. Samrit SriboonthiengMr. Peerasak Raksanont

For additional information about SIIT, please contact:Sirindhorn International Institute of TechnologyThammasat UniversityP.O. Box 22, Thammasat-Rangsit Post OfficePathum Thani 12121, ThailandTel: +66-2-986-9009, +66-2-564-3221~9Fax: +66-2-986-9112~3http://www.siit.tu.ac.th

SIIT Exchange Students At Partner Universities(Student Exchange Program and Summer Training Abroad Program)

From left, Mr. Tanatat Sombutphanich (from the School of Information, Computer, and CommunicationTechnology, ICT) and Mr. Jade Kanjanakul (from the School of Management Technology, MT) wereaccepted by Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences (Finland) to attend a summer trainingprogram under the academic cooperation between SIIT and Helsinki Metropolia University of AppliedSciences during April – May 2013.

Institut Supérieur d’Electronique de Paris(ISEP), France

Mr. Thaneadpol Burapaskul, anundergraduate student from the Schoolof ICT, was accepted by ISEP (France) toattend a summer training program underthe academic cooperation between SIITand ISEP during April – May 2013.

Hochschule Ravensburg-Weingarten(HRW) University of Applied Sciences,

GermanyFrom left, Ms. PhimnareeSinghachotsukpat and Ms. PancheewaBenjamasutin, two undergraduatestudents from the School of MT, wereaccepted by HRW (Germany) to attend asummer training program under theacademic cooperation between SIIT andHRW during April – May 2013.

Techniche Universität Damstadt (TUD), GermanyOne student from the School of Civil Engineering and Technology (CET), one studentfrom the School of Manufacturing Systems and Mechanical Engineering (MSME),three students from the School of MT, and five students from the School of ICTwere accepted by TUD (Germany) to attend a summer training program under theacademic cooperation between SIIT and TUD during April – May 2013.

From left, Mr. Chakrit Malithong, Mr. Nutthakarn Intharawijitr, Mr. Ruengroot Hotrawaisaya, Mr.Pongtep Vorapipat, Ms. Chanakanta Jantaratim, Mr. Tharadhol Tangsritrakul, Mr. BoonyaritSoonsiripanichkul, Ms. Bussaba Funngern, Ms. Araya Watthanakaruna, and Ms. ThundluckSereevoravitgul

Osaka Institute of Technology (OIT),Japan

Mr. Kan Teerakanok, an undergraduatestudent from the School of ICT, wasaccepted by OIT (Japan) to attend asummer training program under theacademic cooperation between SIIT andOIT during April – May 2013.

Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Saitama University,Japan

Mr. Kunchid Arayawathanawet, anundergraduate student from the School ofICT, received a scholarship from the JapanStudent Services Organization (JASSO) toparticipate in the Short-Term ExchangeProgram (STEP) at Saitama University(Japan) as an exchange student duringApril 2013 – February 2014.

SIIT News, June 201312