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University of Phayao History

Our history

From Educational Opportunity to an Autonomous University

The University of Phayao was founded to reduce educational inequality, expand access to higher education and create lasting value for communities in Phayao and beyond.

1995Educational opportunity was extended to Phayao Province, with classes initially held at Phayao Pittayakom School.
1999The campus moved to its permanent 5,158-rai site in Maeka Subdistrict, Mueang Phayao District.
2010The University of Phayao Act established the institution as a fully autonomous public university.
The beginning

A University Rooted in Opportunity

The University of Phayao originated as an information technology campus of Naresuan University. It was established to reduce educational inequality by extending access to higher education for local communities and society. In 1995, the institution began operating from temporary facilities at Phayao Pittayakom School before moving to its permanent campus in Maeka in 1999.

At its meeting on 21 July 2007, the Naresuan University Council resolved to rename “Naresuan University, Phayao Information Technology Campus” as “Naresuan University Phayao.”

On 12 July 2010, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great graciously enacted the University of Phayao Act B.E. 2553 (2010). The Act was published in the Royal Gazette on 16 July 2010, formally establishing the University of Phayao as an autonomous public university.

The University advances higher education, academic and professional knowledge, teaching, research, academic services, educational opportunity, and the preservation of arts and culture for the benefit of communities, society and the nation.
Panoramic view of the University of Phayao campus
Education today

Comprehensive Learning for Every Stage of Life

The University provides education across major fields and supports flexible pathways that respond to learners, communities and the labour market.

Fields of study

Comprehensive Disciplines

Programmes span the humanities and social sciences, science and technology, and health sciences.

Degree levels

Advanced Education

The University offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral education supported by teaching, research and professional practice.

Flexible learning

Lifelong Opportunity

Non-degree courses, pre-degree learning and credit accumulation help people develop skills throughout life.

Global recognition

Progress in International Rankings

The University first entered global rankings aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals in 2020 and has continued to progress.

13thin Thailand
THE World University Rankings 2025
11thin Thailand
THE Impact Rankings 2024
10thin Thailand
SCImago Institutions Rankings 2023
10thin Thailand
UI GreenMetric World University Rankings 2023
Commitment to society

Area-Based and Community Engagement

Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation classifies the University of Phayao in Group 3: Area-Based and Community Engagement Universities. The University develops highly skilled people in response to local needs and advances communities through knowledge and innovation.

This commitment reflects the aspiration “Wisdom for Community Empowerment” and the vision “A University that Creates Wisdom and Social Innovation of International Standards for Sustainability.”

University governance

University Leadership

A record of the Chairs of the University Council and Presidents of the University of Phayao.

Chairs of the University Council

No.NameTerm of Office
1Emeritus Professor Khunying Khaisri Sriaroon20 August 2020 – 17 October 2022
2 March 2020 – 19 August 2020 (Acting)
2 March 2017 – 1 March 2020
29 October 2016 – 1 March 2017 (Acting)
29 October 2010 – 28 October 2016
17 July 2010 – 28 October 2010 (Acting)
2Special Professor Attapon Yai Sawang18 October 2022 – 19 February 2023 (Performing duties on behalf of the Chair)
3Dr. Somkiat Chobphol20 February 2023 – 31 May 2023 (Performing duties on behalf of the Chair)
4Special Professor Attapon Yai Sawang20 August 2023 – Present (Acting)
1 June 2023 – 19 August 2023

Presidents of the University of Phayao

No.NameTerm of Office
1Dr. Sumet Yamnoon17 July 2010 – 19 September 2010 (Acting)
2Special Professor Dr. Mondhon Sanguansermsri11 November 2014 – 10 November 2018 (Second term)
20 September 2014 – 10 November 2014 (Acting)
20 September 2010 – 19 September 2014 (First term)
3Associate Professor Dr. Supakorn Pongbangpho18 March 2023 – Present
25 December 2022 – 17 March 2023 (Acting)
25 December 2018 – 24 December 2022 (First term)
11 November 2018 – 24 December 2018 (Acting)
University of Phayao campus
Address : University of Phayao

Phayao Thailand

Phone :

+6654 466 666

Opening Hours :

Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 4.30pm