Dr Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, during the interview. (©JAPAN Forward by Mika Sugiura)
The president of Chulalongkorn University, Thailand's leading university, spoke exclusively with JAPAN Forward on campus in Bangkok about the concept of well-being. He described it as a people-centered approach that goes beyond physical health to include mental and financial well-being.
A similar perspective was reflected in the Thailand Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, themed "Connecting Lives for Greatest Happiness," which combined medicine and culture to highlight physical and mental health alongside broader well-being.
A Holistic View of Well-Being
Dr Wilert Puriwat, president of Chulalongkorn University, explained: "Well-being is not just about a nation's situation — it's about ensuring that every individual can live better and understanding how they can achieve that." He highlighted its comprehensive nature, covering mental health, physical health, and financial stability.
Chulalongkorn University ranks first among Thai universities and 44th globally in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings, which measure sustainability. Its efforts toward UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on well-being, are highly regarded.
The president noted: "Our university is not just a top-level academic institution — it nurtures young people, preparing them to be good citizens not only for one country but for the world." He emphasized that student growth is fostered not only through academic curricula but also through diverse experiences, such as extracurricular activities.
Sharing Knowledge
Through short- and long-term programs, knowledge gained at the university is transformed into practical wisdom and shared beyond the classroom — with professionals and the wider public. This year, the university launched a new college to promote lifelong learning for all citizens.
Food also plays a major role in promoting well-being. In 2024, Thailand's traditional soup, Tomyum Kung, was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
"The value of food goes beyond nutrition. Good food makes people happy and contributes to well-being," the president said. He noted that Tomyum Kung is enjoyed worldwide, much like Japan's sushi.
"Food doesn't require translation. Even if languages differ, food can communicate," he added. "When food engages all five senses — sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch — it becomes more enjoyable and enhances well-being."
Teaching AI
The interview also touched on artificial intelligence (AI), an area of growing research at universities worldwide, including in Japan. Dr Wilert stated, "Artificial intelligence is not real," emphasizing that the technology is a product of engineering that exists as an extension of human intent, not an autonomous entity. "AI is something humans create," he said. "It must not be allowed to control us."
Chulalongkorn University aims not just to be a user of AI but to be a creator and developer of the technology, teaching the same principle to its students.
Inspiring the Youth
Japan and Thailand share more than 600 years of cultural exchange, and 2027 will mark the 140th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations.
Addressing the youth of both countries, the president said, "Being young means the world is before you. Live today to the fullest and prepare for the future. Be the leader of your own life."
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Author: Mika Sugiura
