On 21 November 2025, School of Engineering, University of Phayao, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Erawin Thavorn, Associate Dean for Research and Academic Services, together with Associate Professor Dr. Aphisak Witthayaprapakorn, Head of the Engineering Research and Academic Services Center, presented the School’s research and innovation project selected as one of the eight flagship initiatives representing the University of Phayao. The presentation took place at the regional exhibition titled “Grassroots Economy: Poverty Alleviation, Debt Reduction, and Income Enhancement through Appropriate Technology” (Appropriate Technology Matching Day 2025 – Northern Region), held at the Empress Grand Hall, 3rd Floor, Empress International Convention Center, The Empress Hotel, Chiang Mai.
The event was organized with support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), in collaboration with the Program Management Unit for Area-based Development (PMU-A). More than 500 participants attended, including representatives from government agencies, academic institutions, the private sector, university networks in the northern region, farmers, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and various occupational groups. The event aimed to promote grassroots economic development through the application of appropriate technologies, thereby enhancing community well-being and fostering sustainable local development.
Assistant Professor Dr. Erawin Thavorn presented the work of the UP Engineering Technology Learning Center, a project dedicated to developing human capital through Up–Re–New Skill training in industrial design and manufacturing. The initiative integrates the School’s engineering expertise with the needs of local industries to strengthen workforce capabilities and support regional industrial development.
The showcased project attracted significant interest from entrepreneurs and partner networks due to its strong potential for real-world application. It offers practical solutions for enhancing workforce competencies, addressing shortages of skilled personnel in advanced design and manufacturing, and elevating the competitiveness of northern industrial sectors. The presentation marked an important opportunity to scale up design and manufacturing technologies to industry, foster new collaborations with regional stakeholders, and reinforce the University of Phayao’s role in driving grassroots economic development. Ultimately, the initiative advances the use of innovation to generate tangible economic and social impact for local communities.