On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Asst. Prof. Dr. Erawin Thavorn, Associate Dean for Research and Academic Services, led a team of School members and researchers from School of Engineering, University of Phayao—including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aphisak Witthayaprapakorn, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sutham Arun, Dr. Songpol Pudwong, and Mr. Anukul Suriyachai—in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Samur Thanoi, Vice President for Research and Innovation, and members of the Research Administration Division, along with staff and students from the Electrical Engineering Program. The delegation conducted a field visit to the Kamnandate Community Distillery Enterprise (Kirikhal), located in Lo Sub-district, Chun District, Phayao Province, where they met with Ms. Sutthiya Kunaroop, a representative of the enterprise, to exchange insights and receive feedback for further improvement.
This visit was part of the “Community Liquor Distillation System Efficiency Improvement Project through Sustainable Engineering Technologies” The objectives of the visit were to report on project progress and to discuss strategies for enhancing the performance of the distillation system. The engineering team proposed several innovations to optimize the production process through engineering solutions aimed at reducing production time without compromising quality. Additionally, the team sought to improve the design of the distillation apparatus to ensure long-term safety, standardization, and sustainable quality.
During the session, the Research Administration Division committee members provided further recommendations to ensure that the project effectively addresses the real needs of community producers. Their input emphasized the importance of upgrading the quality of locally distilled spirits to meet international standards, thereby driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth within the local grassroots economy.
Furthermore, the project emphasizes the integration of engineering knowledge and local wisdom to develop innovations that effectively address the sustainable economic and social development of the community. This initiative also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, by promoting the application of energy-efficient and environmentally responsible technologies within community-based production systems. Such alignment reflects the guiding principle of the “University for Society” initiative, which aspires to create shared value with local communities and contribute to the advancement of society through knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development.