Raphee Day, observed annually on August 7, commemorates Prince Raphi Phatthanasak, the “Father of Thai Law,” who laid the foundation for Thailand’s modern legal and judicial systems. Recognising that legal education extends beyond theoretical knowledge, the Faculty of Law, Burapha University, emphasises cultivating professional ethics, integrity, and a commitment to justice from the outset. The “First Light of Law” candlelight ceremony symbolically transmits legal principles, moral values, and social responsibility from faculty and alumni to incoming first-year law students. This initiative inspires students to uphold the rule of law and become ethical legal practitioners who support sustainable governance and justice within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and society at large.
Project Coordinator: Ms.Pimprapai Snitwongse Na Ayudhya
Objectives:
- To enhance first-year law students’ understanding of the historical contributions, legal ethics, and foundational principles established by Prince Raphi Phatthanasak.
- To instil positive professional attitudes toward legal education while fostering meaningful connections among students, faculty members, and alums.
- To strengthen academic morale, institutional pride, and a commitment to public service and social justice among incoming law students.
Program Activities:
The project commenced with an opening ceremony presided over by the President of Burapha University Council. This was followed by a lecture on the history and royal contributions of His Royal Highness Prince Rapee Pattanasak, Prince of Ratchaburi. The program then continued with a panel discussion entitled “Candlelight of Legal Ethics,” featuring alumni working as judges, compliance officers, lawyers, and officials from the Department of Intellectual Property. Following the discussion, student representatives led the participants in taking an oath of professional commitment before the statue of His Royal Highness Prince Rapee Pattanasak. The ceremony then proceeded with a candle-lighting activity forming the letters “LAW BUU,” symbolising the passing on of the ideals of justice. The event concluded with the presentation of commemorative bookmarks, words of encouragement from faculty members, and an “Alumni Talk” session to foster professional networks.
Expected Outcomes (Impacts):
This initiative directly enhances first-year law students’ ethical awareness, professional integrity, and understanding of the rule of law. By connecting incoming students with distinguished alums and faculty, the program establishes a strong legal mentorship network that promotes institutional transparency, active stakeholder engagement, and high standards of legal education. Ultimately, it prepares future legal practitioners to serve society with moral responsibility, supporting strong institutions, human rights, and sustainable governance in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) region.
Date of Implementation: August 20, 2026
