Promoting Future Talent
10th Youth Camp: Transforming Democracy, Phayao

Participants are discussing roles of different actors in democratic societies

HSF

The three-day camp brought together 22 young participants aged 16-22 from Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Uttaradit provinces. The event opened with a warm online welcome from Associate Professor Dr Montra Pongnil, Dean of the School of Political and Social Science at the University of Phayao.

Led by Assistant Professor Taweep Mahasigha, Assistant Professor Dararat Khampeng, and Ms. Kanlayaporn Kanin, the program employed active learning methodologies to strengthen participants' understanding of democracy, human rights, children's rights, and media literacy. Through systematic thinking exercises and group discussions, the roles of different actors in a democratic society were explored.

Evaluation results demonstrated the camp's success, with participants reporting significant gains in political knowledge and an expanded understanding of citizenship. The interactive format allowed participants to design creative solutions to Thai political challenges, including innovative election systems, parliamentary seat allocation models, and anti-corruption applications.

Exercising democratic participation

HSF

This milestone represents more than just a camp – it marks a decade of commitment to cultivating democratic values in Thailand's next generation. As these empowered young leaders return to their communities, they carry with them not only enhanced knowledge but also the confidence and connections to become active architects of Thailand's democratic future. The Hanns Seidel Foundation and the University of Phayao remain dedicated to nurturing these seeds of civic engagement, ensuring that democratic principles continue to flourish throughout Thailand for generations to come.