CIM Alumnus Dr. Thanaphon Watthanakun Receives the 2026 TASSHA Catalyst Award for Advancing Cultural Heritage Research and Community-Based Economic Development
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) Honors a Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University Doctoral Alumnus for His Outstanding Contributions to Connecting Area-Based Research, Cultural Heritage, and Sustainable Local Economic Development
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) has announced the recipients of the 2026 TASSHA Catalyst Award, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing research in the social sciences, humanities, and fine arts.
Among the distinguished award recipients is Dr. Thanaphon Watthanakun, an alumnus of the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Innovation Management at the College of Innovation and Management, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and Chairman of the Promoting Committee (PC) of the Program Management Unit on Area-Based Development (PMU A).
Dr. Thanaphon received the prestigious award in the National Museum of Fine Arts category, recognizing his important role in connecting area-based research with community cultural capital and transforming local heritage into economic opportunities for communities across Thailand.
NRCT Announces the 2026 TASSHA Catalyst Award Recipients
On October 15, 2026, Ms. Wiparat De-ong, Director of the National Research Council of Thailand, officially signed the announcement of the Thailand Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts Research Awards (TASSHA Awards), specifically the TASSHA Catalyst Award for Fiscal Year 2026.
The award recognizes distinguished individuals whose dedication, leadership, and contributions have supported and facilitated research development, enabling academic knowledge and research findings to be translated into practical applications that generate tangible benefits for local communities.
The awards cover five research areas under TASSHA. Each recipient is entitled to receive an honorary plaque, a certificate of recognition, and a cash prize of THB 100,000.
Four distinguished individuals were selected for the 2026 awards:
- Special Professor Srisakra Vallibhotama – Suvarnabhumi Studies
- Ms. Nantawan Chinda-in – Sufficiency Economy
- Dr. Thanaphon Watthanakun – National Museum of Fine Arts
- Dr. Sirikorn Maneerin – Local Arts and Crafts
Recognizing Leadership in Area-Based Research and Cultural Development
Dr. Thanaphon Watthanakun, recipient of the National Museum of Fine Arts category award, is recognized for his contributions as an academic and research strategy leader.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Promoting Committee (PC) of the Program Management Unit on Area-Based Development (PMU A), where he plays a key role in shaping research strategies, supporting high-impact research programs, and promoting collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, private organizations, and local communities.
His contributions focus on three major areas.
1. Transforming Community Cultural Capital into Local Economic Opportunities
Dr. Thanaphon has actively promoted the application of research and practical knowledge to transform local identities, traditional wisdom, arts, and cultural heritage into sustainable economic value.
His initiatives emphasize the importance of community cultural capital as a foundation for strengthening local economies and improving community livelihoods.
Notable examples include the revitalization of historic cultural districts and traditional community markets, such as the Tha Phraya Mueang Sai Market in Sai Buri District, Pattani Province.
His work also extends to supporting the cultural heritage of Tai Lue and Tai Yong ethnic communities, preserving traditional folk music, and enhancing the economic potential of locally produced textiles.
These initiatives include the promotion of Sakon Nakhon's traditional indigo-dyed fabrics and distinctive textile patterns from Nong Bua Lamphu Province.
By integrating cultural heritage with innovation and creative economic approaches, these projects aim to create new economic opportunities, generate income, and strengthen community resilience.
2. Advancing Strategic Research Management and High-Impact Development
As Chairman of the Promoting Committee of PMU A, Dr. Thanaphon contributes to establishing strategic directions, reviewing research proposals, and evaluating priority research programs.
His work focuses on supporting research funding and resource allocation that can generate measurable social and economic impacts, particularly in addressing inequality and promoting inclusive local development.
He also plays an important role in strengthening collaborative networks among higher education institutions, local administrative organizations, private enterprises, and community stakeholders.
These partnerships help ensure that research outcomes extend beyond academic publications and contribute directly to solving real-world challenges faced by local communities.
3. Promoting Knowledge Management and Leadership Development
In addition to his contributions to research strategy and community development, Dr. Thanaphon has been actively involved in knowledge transfer and leadership capacity building.
His academic contributions include sharing expertise in “Thai Cultural Capital Management: Theory and Practice” in collaboration with PMU A.
He has also participated in curriculum development and public policy projects with King Prajadhipok's Institute and leading educational institutions, aiming to strengthen the competencies of public-sector executives and policymakers.
Furthermore, he has served as an expert committee member and academic advisor to various educational institutions, including the Faculty of Fine Arts at Chiang Mai University.
Through these roles, he has helped bridge academic knowledge, public policy, cultural preservation, and practical development initiatives.
From Academic Research to Tangible Community Impact
Dr. Thanaphon's recognition with the 2026 TASSHA Catalyst Award highlights the essential contributions of individuals who work behind the scenes to advance research and transform knowledge into meaningful social and economic outcomes.
His achievements demonstrate how research in arts, culture, and heritage can move beyond theoretical frameworks to become practical initiatives that preserve cultural identity, strengthen community participation, and generate sustainable economic value.
The award also reflects the importance of connecting research institutions, policymakers, local authorities, and communities to create lasting development opportunities.
A Source of Pride for Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
The College of Innovation and Management, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Thanaphon Watthanakun, an alumnus of the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Innovation Management, on receiving the prestigious 2026 TASSHA Catalyst Award.
His outstanding achievements represent a source of pride for the College and the University, reflecting the value of advanced education, academic excellence, research leadership, and the practical application of knowledge for the benefit of society.
The College remains committed to developing graduates and researchers who possess the knowledge, leadership capabilities, creativity, and innovative thinking necessary to contribute to sustainable national development.
Source: Nation Online