สำนักงานวิเทศสัมพันธ์ สำนักงานอธิการบดี 2026/05/29 , ( 6 views)
Ubon Ratchathani University, represented by a student team from the Faculty of Education, received the First Runner-Up Award (Gold Medal) in the 2026 Northeastern Regional Suat O-E Wihan Rai Chanting Competition at the higher education level. The competition was organized by the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, and held at Wat That Phra Aram Luang, Khon Kaen Province, from 13–14 May 2026.
A total of six educational institutions participated in the regional competition. The student team from the Faculty of Education, Ubon Ratchathani University, earned an average score of 84.89 points and was selected as a representative of the Northeastern region to advance to the national final round. The national competition, scheduled for 24–25 June 2026, will compete for the Royal Trophy graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
Mr. Jakkrit Jarat, the team’s instructor and coach, explained that the “Suat O-E Wihan Rai” competition is regarded as one of Thailand’s most prestigious national cultural stages and is highly anticipated by students across the country. He noted that the success of Ubon Ratchathani University students reflects their dedication and commitment to preserving Thailand’s royal cultural heritage through the literary masterpiece Kap Phra Chai Suriya, composed by Phra Sunthorn Vohara (Sunthorn Phu).
“The Suat O-E Wihan Rai chanting performance requires intensive practice due to its highly distinctive rhythms and melodic patterns, which consist of three different traditional recitation styles: Kap Yani 11, emphasizing solemnity and power; Kap Surangkhanaang 28, highlighting elegance and melodious beauty; and Kap Chabang 16, characterized by lively and dynamic rhythms.
This competition marked the very first stage for this student team. It was a newly formed group that had only 21 days to rehearse together. Every member devoted themselves wholeheartedly to Thai arts and culture in order to harmonize the voices and rhythms of all ten chanters into one unified performance. Above all, our greatest dream has been to advance to the national finals for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to respectfully appear before Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn,” Mr Jakkrit stated.
The achievement not only demonstrates the students’ artistic capabilities and perseverance, but also reflects Ubon Ratchathani University’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting Thailand’s rich cultural heritage among younger generations.
English version by: Kanjana Sangasri
Thai version by: Plern Wichaiwong
English revised by: Kimberly Tangaro
Photos by: Faculty of Education
