Assumption University addresses Myanmar student’s death
Assumption University in Bangkok is facing fierce criticism following the tragic death of a Myanmar student in a motorbike accident. The accident, which took place on November 18 last year, sparked accusations of negligence from both the university and emergency responders.
The victim, along with his 17 year old cousin, was en route to the university when disaster struck. A 40 year old driver made an illegal U-turn over a solid line, leaving the motorcycle with no time to avoid a crash. The collision was severe, but crucial evidence, including the university’s CCTV footage and the car’s black box data, was reportedly unavailable.
According to the family, the university’s response to the accident was delayed and lacked urgency. The university’s ambulance was out of service due to a flat tyre, leaving the student bleeding on the hot asphalt for almost an hour. Despite warnings not to move him, friends were forced to lift the injured student into an ambulance that arrived late. No university staff or security personnel intervened to assist.
The victim was rushed to Ruamchai Pracharug Hospital, where, according to the family, medical staff first demanded a passport before providing treatment. By the time surgeons attempted to operate on his severe brain injuries, his chances of survival had plummeted to just 10%.
In the aftermath of his death, the family faced further hardship. The hospital demanded a payment of 200,000 baht for the release of the body, which the family paid out of pocket. The university, while offering a mere 20,000 baht in funeral support, allegedly pressured the family to drop any legal action.
Now, the family has initiated legal proceedings against both the driver and the university, accusing them of negligence. The case has garnered attention on social media, with discussions on the Vlog by Julia Facebook page intensifying public scrutiny of the university’s emergency response procedures and its treatment of students.
In response, Assumption University issued an official statement on March 14, expressing condolences and outlining its support for the grieving family.
“Assumption University deeply mourns the tragic loss of our Myanmar student and extends our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” the statement read.
The university also announced that it had waived the educational fees for the deceased student’s younger brother for the first semester of the 2025 academic year, as a gesture of support.
Additionally, the university acknowledged the need for improvements in its emergency management systems, vowing to take steps to ensure better care for students in future incidents.
The student’s name has not been released.
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