The academic seminar “Good Governance: The Foundation for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century” aims to address the need for greater knowledge, understanding, and awareness of the importance of good governance across all sectors. Good governance is a key mechanism for building a transparent, fair, and accountable society, fostering public trust, and driving sustainable development. In today’s world, complex economic, social, political, and environmental challenges require governance principles that enhance effective decision-making and management. This seminar provides a platform for experts, scholars, students, and the public to exchange experiences and ideas. It also fosters networks of collaboration among institutions and organizations.
The event aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals — SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Furthermore, it enhances the image of Burapha University as a hub of knowledge on governance. It inspires young people to recognize their role in developing a society based on ethics and integrity. Ultimately, this project is both valuable and essential in driving Thai society towards sustainable development.
Objectives
1.To promote knowledge, understanding, and awareness of the importance of good governance across all sectors of society.
2.To provide a platform for exchanging ideas, experiences, and knowledge among experts, academics, youth, and the public.
3.To establish and expand collaborative networks among agencies, organisations, and institutions at national and international levels in alignment with SDG 16 and SDG 17.
The academic seminar “Good Governance: The Foundation for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century” was held on 28–29 June 2025 at the Faculty of Political Science and Law, Burapha University. The event was attended by more than 250 participants from various sectors, including the Good Governance Association, political parties, and educational institutions at both higher education and secondary school levels, such as Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Ang Sila Pittayakom School, Photisampan Pittayakarn School, Bansuan (Chan Anusorn) School, Ban Bueng “Utsahakam Nukhro” School, Bang Lamung School, and Chonburi “Sukhabot” School. Internal university units and student activity organizations, such as the Student Organization and the Faculty of Political Science and Law Student Club, also took part in the event.
The program commenced with discussions on building partnerships to strengthen good governance, followed by welcome remarks by the President of the University Council and the opening ceremony presided over by the President of the Royal Society of Thailand. A keynote address was delivered by Mr. Chuan Leekpai, former Prime Minister and former President of the National Assembly. The seminar featured a session on “Good Governance in the Public, Private, and Civil Society Sectors,” presented by distinguished experts. In the evening, a networking dinner was held to foster relationships. On the second day, Professor (Emeritus) Dr. Bowornsak Uwanno, Fellow of the Royal Society of Thailand, delivered a lecture, followed by a panel discussion on “Strengthening and Sustaining Good Governance in Thai Society.” The event concluded with a summary of policy recommendations and the closing ceremony.
The academic seminar “Good Governance: The Foundation for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century” has delivered tangible benefits in multiple dimensions. Firstly, more than 250 participants from diverse sectors gained profound knowledge and understanding of good governance principles in the public, private, and civil society sectors, while recognizing the importance of applying them within their own organizations and communities. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Secondly, the project strengthened collaborative networks among agencies, organizations, and educational institutions at various levels to advance good governance in the long term, in accordance with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Thirdly, the involvement of prominent national figures and collaboration with the Royal Society of Thailand elevated Burapha University’s reputation as a leading institution in the national academic arena. Finally, by providing students and youth with opportunities to interact directly with distinguished experts, the project inspired them to develop as ethical leaders committed to social responsibility.
Implementation Details
Date: June 28-29, 2025
Project Managers: Assoc. Prof. Anurat Anantanatorn, Mr. Touch Khanthaprasit
