School of Science, University of Phayao, in Collaboration with Provincial Agricultural Partners, Hosts Training Program “Sweetness from the Hive, Empowering Communities”
The School of Science, University of Phayao, in collaboration with the Phayao Provincial Agriculture Office and the Agricultural Research Development Agency (Public Organization) (ARDA), organized a two-day intensive training program entitled “Sweetness from the Hive, Empowering Communities: Sustainable Stingless Bee Farming and Product Management.”
This initiative was designed as an extension of the successful research project, “Development of Stingless Bee Farming and Quality Management of Bee Products Based on the Unique Identity of Phayao Province to Enhance Community Income.” Following the project’s notable achievements, increasing numbers of farmers beyond the original target areas expressed strong interest in acquiring knowledge, innovation, and technology to promote stingless bee cultivation, product processing, product development, and commercial value creation. In response, ARDA supported the expansion of research dissemination through this public-oriented knowledge transfer program.
The training aimed to strengthen farmers’ capacities in natural stingless bee farming processes, appropriate hive equipment, and best practices in harvesting high-quality honey. Participants were guided in value-added product development, including honey processing, fermented pollen, and beeswax utilization, as well as in managing by-products to minimize waste and maximize economic returns. The program emphasized continuous knowledge transfer mechanisms linking academics, entrepreneurs, and local farmers, thereby fostering a sustainable learning network.
Through this integrated approach, farmers are expected to acquire practical skills in hive construction and maintenance, seasonal yield management, and downstream processing techniques. Beyond technical competencies, the initiative supports participants in transforming acquired knowledge into viable supplementary or primary occupations. It further encourages the formation of community enterprises or stingless bee cooperatives capable of producing standardized honey products for local markets and online distribution channels, ultimately enhancing household income and promoting equitable income distribution within communities.
The training program targeted 100 participants, including stingless bee farmers, community enterprise groups, aspiring beekeepers, interested agriculturalists, and entrepreneurs.
The event was graciously presided over by the Provincial Agricultural Officer of Phayao, who delivered the opening address and extended encouragement to the participating farmers.
The distinguished team of speakers included Assistant Professor Dr. Tipwan Suppasat, Assistant Professor Dr. Narutchala Suwannakhon, Assistant Professor Dr. Sorachai Khamsan, Dr. Rattiya Na Ubol, and Dr. Wilaiwan Phakthong from the School of Science, University of Phayao; Assistant Professor Dr. Thammanoon Rungsang and Dr. Pimpchnok Jarungjit from the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Phayao; and Mr. Prasert Hanpisut, a local farmer and stingless bee innovator from Faikwang Subdistrict, Phayao Province, who contributed practical field expertise to the training sessions.
The program was conducted over two consecutive days: Saturday, 14 February 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Rai Chundo Farm, Faikwang Subdistrict, Chiang Kham District; and Sunday, 15 February 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Chiang Kham District Agriculture Office, Chiang Kham District, Phayao Province.
This collaborative endeavor underscores the School of Science’s commitment to translating research outcomes into tangible societal impact, advancing sustainable agricultural innovation, and empowering local communities through science-based capacity building.