Chulalongkorn University hosts Bhutan’s King and Queen for honorary degrees
Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degrees conferred in recognition of leadership, development, and social contribution
Chulalongkorn University had the great honour of welcoming His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck of the Kingdom of Bhutan on Monday, December 22, for the Conferral of the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degrees, held at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium and Maha Chulalongkorn Building.
Upon Their Majesties’ arrival at Chulalongkorn University, they were received by Professor Dr Surakiart Sathirathai, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council; Professor Dr Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University; members of the University’s senior executive team; and Bhutanese students of Chulalongkorn University. Floral tributes were presented to Their Majesties, followed by the signing of the Guest Book.
Prior to the ceremonial proceedings in the auditorium, the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Gowns were formally presented by Professor Dr Surakiart to His Majesty the King, and by Professor Dr Wilert to Her Majesty the Queen. The ceremony opened with the Maha Chulalongkorn Song, followed by a Welcome Address and Citation delivered by Professor Dr Surakiart, and the formal Conferral of the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degrees, including the presentation of certificates, programme booklets, and academic insignias.
On this occasion, Chulalongkorn University presented the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degree in International Development Studies (International Programme) to His Majesty King Wangchuck, in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his people, guided by the principles of sustainable development; his emphasis on disaster preparedness; his initiation of Royal Development Projects with a strong focus on children and youth; his efforts to enhance the quality of life of the Bhutanese people; and his support for public participation and democratic values.
In addition, the University presented the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Sociology and Anthropology to Her Majesty Queen Pema, in recognition of Her Majesty’s devoted advocacy for social development and her visionary leadership, which have significantly contributed to improving the quality of life of the Bhutanese people in the areas of health and well-being, equality, conservation, and sustainable development.
Chulalongkorn University also announced the offering of ten scholarships to students from the Kingdom of Bhutan, with Professor Dr Wilert, President of Chulalongkorn University, presenting letters offering five scholarships to His Majesty the King and five scholarships to Her Majesty the Queen.
At 11am, His Majesty the King of Bhutan graciously delivered a Royal Address, providing inspiration and guidance to the academic community. Souvenirs were subsequently presented to Their Majesties by Professor Dr Surakiart, Chairman of the Chulalongkorn University Council, and Professor Dr Wilert, President of Chulalongkorn University, followed by group photographs with members of the University Council and senior executives.
The programme featured cultural performances celebrating the enduring friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Bhutan, including performances of the Bhutanese and Thai National Anthems, the Maha Chulalongkorn Overture by the ChulaThaiYO Ensemble, and a joint Thai–Bhutanese performance entitled Rattanaboriban Romyen Machaanan Saung Phaendin, symbolising enduring harmony under the benevolent reigns of both Kingdoms.
Their Majesties later proceeded to the Maha Chulalongkorn Building to pay their respects before the portrait of King Chulalongkorn. A luncheon followed this in honour of Their Majesties, hosted by Chulalongkorn University.
Their Majesties’ visit reflects the deep-rooted friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Bhutan, reaffirming Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to academic excellence, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.
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