University of Phayao (UP), led by the School of Energy and Environment (Asoc. Prof. Dr. Sittichai Pimonsree), together with representatives from the School of Information and Communication Technology (Asst. Dr. Niti Iamchuen) and the School of Engineering, held a meeting with the Royal Initiative Discovery Foundation to discuss the establishment of a collaborative network aimed at driving sustainable community development. The collaboration seeks to integrate academic services, research, and community engagement by adopting the royal development principle of “Understand, Reach Out, and Develop,” together with knowledge, technology, and innovation to support water resource management, natural resources and environmental development, career development, healthcare improvement, and enhancement of people’s quality of life.

During the meeting held on 12 May 2026 at the UP., all parties agreed to jointly prepare a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on collaboration for community development between the University of Phayao and the Royal Initiative Discovery Foundation. The agreement will serve as a framework for cooperation in water management and the development of natural resources and the environment in accordance with the royal development initiatives, with the aim of fostering sustainable model communities and strengthening local development capacity.