Nakhon Pathom:Turning research into economic opportunities, Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University is reviving Dvaravati culture and transforming agricultural waste into artificial gemstones. Associate Professor Dr. Piyawan Pinkaew, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and Deputy Head of a cultural economic project, emphasizes the initiative's goal to leverage "Dvaravati cultural capital" to create a sustainable cultural market in Nakhon Pathom Province. This project, supported by the Area-Based Development Fund, aims to convert historical knowledge and local wisdom into products, tourism, and learning activities, fostering a 'living cultural market' with tangible economic and social impacts.
According to Thai News Agency, the project, led by Associate Professor Dr. Wirat Pinkaew, integrates insights from diverse fields such as social studies, graphic design, and tourism. Efforts are concentrated on four key areas significant for their archaeological and historical importance. Now in its third phase, the project has already shown economic benefits by collaborating with entrepreneurs to develop products like food, clothing, and crafts. The second phase focused on upgrading cultural spaces, resulting in initiatives like the "Living Dvaravati in Nakhon Pathom" market.
The project has spurred awareness of Dvaravati heritage among locals and entrepreneurs, increasing product sales and economic activity. The previous Dvaravati Living Cultural Markets have demonstrated economic growth, with vendor participation and revenue seeing notable increases. Additionally, the research rejuvenated local traditions such as the Naga-carrying horse tradition and developed 21 new products from Dvaravati heritage, involving local entrepreneurs and communities.
In another initiative, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natthaphol Srisittipokkul from the Center of Excellence in Glass and Materials Science Technology is addressing the economic and environmental challenges posed by agricultural waste. The project transforms sugarcane leaves into glass using materials science, funded by the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund. New glass formulas created from sugarcane leaf ash aim to reduce production costs and energy consumption. This research has also led to the development of jewelry inspired by Dvaravati culture, with a cost-effective production model for local entrepreneurs.
The project extends its reach through collaboration with both local and international partners, including a memorandum of understanding with Pandora Productions Limited for developing alternative raw materials for the jewelry industry. This reflects the project's potential to connect local innovations to the global value chain.
Associate Professor Dr. Uten Khamnan, Deputy Director of the Area-Based Development Fund Management Unit, highlights the role of universities in driving community development and distributing economic opportunities. Both research projects demonstrate the strategic use of research to foster local development, improve living standards, and promote sustainable economic growth through innovation and collaboration.