The Physical Therapy Program, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, organized the “Physical Therapy Community Engagement Project in Celebration of National Physical Therapy Day” on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at Wat Mae Ka Thok Wak. Faculty members, supporting staff, and physical therapy students collaboratively delivered physical therapy services to members of the local community from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
On this occasion, Dr. Pacharee Manoy, together with faculty members specializing in cardiopulmonary physical therapy, served as the principal leaders of the initiative. They were joined by staffs, and physical therapy students who participated in full cooperation to provide comprehensive physical therapy services to residents in the area throughout the morning session.
This project constitutes an annual initiative for the Fiscal Year 2026 of the Physical Therapy Program. It is implemented under the University’s strategic framework on academic service and the creation of learning spaces to enhance social well-being. The project aspires to transform the community into a “learning space,” while simultaneously elevating the sustainable quality of life of its residents.
The initiative aligns with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy (2018–2037) and the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan, both of which emphasize the development of high-competency healthcare professionals and the reduction of disparities in access to health services. Furthermore, the project integrates the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
The primary objectives of the project are to strengthen students’ understanding of the role of physical therapists within the primary healthcare system, to provide opportunities for students to translate classroom knowledge into authentic practice, and to ensure that community members receive high-quality healthcare services.
During the project, second- to third-year physical therapy students engaged in supervised field practice under close faculty guidance. Services encompassed health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation across multiple systems, including neurological, cardiopulmonary, and musculoskeletal conditions. This experiential engagement forms an integral component of an integrated learning approach—Learning by Doing—designed to cultivate professional competencies in accordance with national professional standards.
Beyond the immediate health benefits afforded to community members, the project exemplifies the University’s role as a “learning space for society,” effectively bridging academic knowledge with real-world application to enhance the well-being of people of all ages. It also reflects the University’s mission as a producer of high-quality graduates, by providing students with meaningful real-life experiences that foster professional spirit, social responsibility, and service delivered with compassion and humanity.
The implementation of the “Physical Therapy Community Engagement Project” thus represents a significant contribution by the School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, in advancing its dual missions of academic service and educational excellence, while strengthening community networks in a tangible and sustainable manner.