On 24 October 2026, students and faculty members from the Civil Engineering Program, School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University, participated in the i3SC Competition 2026 at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) in Perlis, Malaysia. The competition challenged participants to design and construct wooden models of tapered buildings. Walailak University students won two awards, demonstrating their ability to combine engineering knowledge, creativity, and teamwork.
The competition provided an opportunity for students to develop design concepts and construct structural models within material and time constraints. Participants applied structural engineering principles to plan their work, consider the geometry and components of their models, and select appropriate construction methods to turn their designs into physical structures. The award-winning teams were as follows:
Excellent Aesthetic Design Award
Team Mor Wua WU received the Excellent Aesthetic Design award, recognising the team’s creative approach to the appearance of its structural model and its consideration of aesthetics alongside engineering concepts. The team members were:
Mr. Weeraphat Sawatmongkhon
Mr. Chanphat Wongwanit
Mr. Thanaphong Yisun
Mr. Wangnathee Phetpraphan
Mr. Khanathip Thongnueaha
Design Feasibility for Future Development Award
Team The Load Bearers received the Design Feasibility for Future Development award, recognising the potential of its design concept for further study and development. The team members were:
Mr. Siraphat Ngophol
Ms. Piyaphat Phetdi
Ms. Khrueawan Champa
Mr. Theerawat Thongsong
Ms. Phawini Marose
Three faculty supervisors accompanied and supported the students during the competition in Malaysia: Assistant Professor Dr. Satchaphan Leelatanon, Dr. Baramee Poolsawat, and Dr. Radhika Kala Sridhar.
Beyond the awards, the competition offered a valuable learning experience that connected classroom knowledge with practical application. Students worked together to analyse the challenge, establish work processes, and assign responsibilities according to each member’s strengths. Working within a limited timeframe also helped them practise prioritisation, responsibility, and coordination to keep their teams focused on shared objectives.
During model construction, students explored the relationship between their design concepts and the practical constraints encountered during implementation. This process required attention to detail, inspection of the work, and collective decision-making. Such experiences help develop systematic problem-solving skills, the ability to listen to different perspectives, and sound judgement when selecting an approach suited to a particular situation—all essential foundations for engineering practice.
Participation in an international competition also broadened students’ perspectives through exposure to the competitive environment and different approaches to engineering work. It encouraged them to adapt to a setting beyond the classroom. The knowledge and experience gained can inform their studies and future design projects, particularly by encouraging consideration of technical requirements, creativity, and development feasibility.
The achievements of Team Mor Wua WU and Team The Load Bearers are a source of pride for the Civil Engineering Program and the School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University. They also highlight the value of perseverance, preparation, and collaboration in developing successful projects and achieving shared goals.
The School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University, congratulates both student teams and their faculty supervisors on their accomplishments and commends their commitment to applying engineering knowledge at the i3SC Competition 2026. The experience will serve as encouragement for the students to continue developing their capabilities and preparing for future careers as engineers with technical knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to work effectively with others.
