UBU - A Leading University in ASEAN, Enhancing the Quality of Life for Society

Background

Ubon Ratchathani University (UBU) was founded in 1987 as a regional campus of Khon Kaen University and was formally established as a university by Royal Charter in 1990. On 22 October 2025, UBU transitioned to autonomous public university status, reflecting the institution's growth, academic maturity, and commitment to greater administrative and financial independence in service of society.

The university is committed to expanding access to higher education for students across Thailand, with a particular focus on the northeastern provinces of Amnat Charoen, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani, and Yasothon. UBU actively supports research that benefits local, national, and international communities, while fostering activities that preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region.

UBU's campus is situated along the Warin–Det Udom Road, approximately 15 kilometres south of Ubon Ratchathani city. The university is conveniently accessible via public transport from the airport, major bus terminals across the city, and Warin Chamrap railway station. Spanning approximately 5,300 rai (848 hectares), the campus offers a spacious environment set amid natural surroundings.

The university's logo is inspired by a Lan Chang period chedi — a sacred architectural form found throughout the Isan (northeastern) region. At its centre lies a lotus blossom resting on a three-tiered pedestal, symbolising the three principal rivers of the province: the Mekong, Chi, and Moon. The two lower petals of the lotus embody morality and intellect — the core qualities UBU seeks to cultivate in its graduates — while the three upper petals represent the Triple Gem of Buddhism, a timeless foundation for well-being and wisdom. The lotus's pink hue reflects the official colour of Ubon Ratchathani Province, the blue outline conveys the university's strength and stability, and the yellow background is UBU's signature institutional colour.

The symbolic tree of the university is the Kan-Krao (Casearia grewiifolia), a fragrant yellow-flowering species that thrives across the campus. Known for its resilience in poor soils and its exceptionally hard, termite-resistant timber — prized in construction and fine woodwork — the Kan-Krao embodies the university's spirit of perseverance, strength, and unity as it grows toward the future.