This participation was initiated to publicly showcase the academic and research capabilities of the Faculty of Gems at a prominent local industry event. Its importance stems from the strategic effort to disseminate innovative research, such as jewellery from recycled materials, and to share expert knowledge through panel discussions with industry leaders. The faculty actively strengthened its network with local entrepreneurs and the community by promoting its academic programs and offering gemological services. This activity was a crucial platform for knowledge exchange, enhancing the faculty’s reputation as a center for excellence. Ultimately, it fostered vital collaborations between academia, industry, and the public, contributing to the region’s sustainable economic and educational development.
Project Coordinator:
Lecturer Dr. Dawan Madlee, Faculty of Gems
Objectives:
Participating in this event aimed to promote and disseminate the academic potential, research output, and academic programs of the Faculty of Gems to the general public. It also aimed to foster collaborative networks with entrepreneurs in Chanthaburi’s gem and jewelry industry. The event provided a platform for presenting creative research works, conducting academic panel discussions, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and career trends in both the business and professional sectors. Furthermore, the Faculty offered free gemological analysis services to the public, with the overall goal of enhancing its image as a center of academic excellence and innovation in gemology one that is closely connected to the local community and industry in Chanthaburi Province.
Program Activities:
The event featured an exhibition of jewellery research creations utilising innovative materials combined with gemstone fragments, presented by Assistant Professor Worachai Roubroumlert, a lecturer from the Jewellery Design Department, Faculty of Gems, Burapha University, Chanthaburi Campus. His work was selected as one of the ten featured pieces in the opening runway showcase. In addition, the event included a panel discussion titled “Unlocking Opportunities in the Gem and Jewellery Industry”, led by Dr. Aumaparn Phlayrahan, a lecturer from the Gems and Jewellery Technology Department, Faculty of Gems, together with local entrepreneurs from Chanthaburi Province. The session shared insights on career paths, professional experiences, and future trends in the Thai and global gem and jewellery industries. Assistant Professor Suparee Taowongsa, also from the Jewellery Design Department, contributed to the discussion by presenting her “Lunar Wave” jewellery collection. Furthermore, Saharat Na-Nan, a Gems and Jewellery Business Department lecturer, introduced the Faculty of Gems’ academic programs to prospective students and attendees. The Faculty also hosted complimentary gemstone inspection services and showcased genuine gemstone jewellery for sale as part of the event’s interactive activities.
Expected Outcomes (Impacts):
The Faculty of Gems’ participation in this event reflects the role of higher education institutions in promoting lifelong learning and sustainable development of learners and communities academically, through research, and via public knowledge dissemination. Notably, the exhibition of jewelry created from recycled materials combined with gemstone fragments supports the concept of a circular economy and promotes efficient resource utilization. The academic panel discussions and curriculum presentations also played a key role in creating valuable educational and employment opportunities, fostering strong linkages between academia, business, and the local industry. This close collaboration contributes to inclusive and sustainable urban development while strengthening networks among educational institutions, the private sector, and the public. Such partnerships are fundamental to long-term local and societal advancement.
Date of Implementation: June 1-3, 2025
