Phuket Rajabhat University’s fair set to boost local economy

The bustling island of Phuket is about to get even busier as Phuket Rajabhat University gears up for its grand Rajabhat Fair, set to run from January 19 to 28. This ten-day extravaganza is projected to inject over 30 million baht (US$857,890) into the local grassroots economy and raise funds for student scholarships.

The Deputy Minister of Interior, Chada Thaiseth, is slated to officiate the opening ceremony on January 19, as announced at a recent press conference held within the university premises. The Rajabhat Fair is a joint venture of Phuket Rajabhat University and the Phuket Rajabhat University Business Promotion Committee, shared Dr Manop Chachiyo, Vice President of the university.

The fair will take centre stage at the Phuket Rajabhat University Auditorium, with its dual purpose of raising funds for scholarships and aiding the growth of the university. Attendees can expect a showcase of the university’s academic and local development projects, transforming the venue into a hub of knowledge and innovation.

In line with the fair’s diverse offerings, vendors will also sell OTOP (One Tambon, One Product) products from all over Thailand. These booths will coincide with events highlighting electric vehicle innovations, amusement parks, and lucky draw activities, creating a dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary attractions.

Dubbed a key event to kick-start 2024, the Rajabhat Fair aims to draw a wide audience from Phuket and adjacent provinces, as well as entice local and international tourists. The fair will offer a unique blend of academic presentations, local development showcases, and tourism activities, explained Dr Manop.

The fair will also feature a variety of OTOP products from all corners of the country, courtesy of the Thai OTOP Company for Society. Attendees can also look forward to academic presentations, local development displays, and an assortment of activities like workshops, competitions, and exhibitions.

Visitors can delve into presentations covering AI technology for education, Smart Farmer management, short courses for professional skills in tourism, and modern educational technology demonstrations in science and agriculture. The fair also intends to spotlight arts, culture, and local wisdom, according to Dr Manop.

Dr Bunsuphap Tanday, Vice-Chancellor, extended his gratitude for the collaborative efforts involved in organising the fair and aiding the university’s development. Echoing this sentiment, Dr Wiphaphan Kusuwan, Chairman of the Phuket Rajabhat University Business Promotion Committee, stressed the significance of promoting scholarships for those in need, creating educational opportunities, and nurturing educational equality, reported Phuket News.

More than just a fair, the Rajabhat Fair is a platform for the university to showcase its progress and expand its network for future collaborations. The fair’s anticipated impact on the local economy is profound, with projections estimating an infusion of over 30 million baht into the grassroots economy. The funds raised will be directed towards scholarships and sustainable social development, concluded Dr Wiphaphan.

In related news, a post by a parent seeking a tutor for their child specifying that it mustn’t be a graduate from Rajabhat University sparked an debate online.