Chulalongkorn University's General Education Center and Lifelong Learning: Past, Present, Future

Abstract

The General Education Center at Chulalongkorn University has played a vital role in promoting learning from the past to the present by offering education both inside and outside the classroom, as well as through various life experiences. The concept of lifelong learning has been incorporated into human resource development and has become a key policy within the Thai education system. This approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to provide quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. In higher education across Thailand, including at Chulalongkorn University, general education courses are designed to give students a well-rounded education, develop essential life and work skills needed for the 21st century, and cultivate them as valuable citizens. The center's core missions include offering general education courses, fostering a conducive learning environment, organizing the Chulalongkorn University Values Integration Program (CUVIP), implementing strategic projects, managing networks, providing services, and developing faculty and staff. The center also focuses on advancing the Chula Neuron digital knowledge repository. Moving forward, the center faces increasingly challenging tasks such as developing online courses, expanding the learner base, fostering collaboration with internal and external networks, and generating revenue. These initiatives aim to build the General Education Center into a leading institution in both education and lifelong learning, aligning with Chulalongkorn University's vision and strategies, and addressing the country's needs.