On July 30, 2024, Assistant Professor Dr. Charernkiat Pochaiya led fourth-year Electrical Engineering students on an educational field trip to the Ratchaprapa Dam of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) in Surat Thani Province. This visit was integrated with classroom learning in the Renewable Energy course, taught by Assistant Professor Dr. Kamon Thinsurat, to help students better understand the processes and working methods after learning the theoretical aspects in the classroom.
Ratchaprapa Dam is a significant multipurpose dam in southern Thailand, constructed as part of the country’s Fourth National Economic and Social Development Plan to develop water resources and electricity. Since the dam was inaugurated by King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on September 30, 1987, it has provided numerous economic, social, and security benefits to the country. The construction of Ratchaprapa Dam was a royal project created in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the auspicious occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary. This honor has made the dam a source of pride for the people of Surat Thani Province.
Over the years, Ratchaprapa Dam has provided significant benefits in irrigation, flood control, fisheries, tourism, and continuous electricity generation for the people of southern Thailand. This has improved the quality of life for the citizens, aligning with the government’s vision. It is a source of pride for all EGAT employees who have contributed to the advancement of the nation.
Walailak University’s Electrical Engineering program emphasizes a comprehensive approach to education, combining classroom learning with field trips and practical experiences to provide students with real-world insights and professional development. The field trip to Ratchaprapa Dam was organized to allow students to observe the processes and systems in a real working environment. This experience was designed to enhance their knowledge, integrate the learning from their courses with practical experiences, and prepare them for cooperative education.
The Electrical Engineering program hopes that students will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse working conditions of engineers in various sectors. It also aims to motivate students to continue their studies in their chosen field, strengthen their academic readiness for cooperative education, and provide them with a foundational understanding of engineering work. This experience is expected to inspire students in their studies and help them develop projects that effectively integrate classroom learning.
