Page 24 - A Life Well-Lived Is a Beautiful Memory

Second, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Thammasat University Research Fund,
providing vital support for faculty research endeavors. Before its establishment, faculty members

faced challenges securing funding for their research, relying on external grants or personal
resources. The establishment of this fund proved instrumental in fostering a conducive research
environment, empowering faculty members to pursue innovative scholarship.
Professor Bhanupong’s leadership was characterized by his unwavering commitment,

receptiveness to diverse perspectives, and compassion towards his colleagues. He cultivated
a culture of collaboration and excellence, earning him the admiration and respect of those he
worked with. As someone fortunate to have collaborated closely with Professor Bhanupong, I
am indebted to him for his guidance and mentorship. His legacy as a transformative leader and

a cherished friend will endure in the annals of Thammasat University.

1. Creation and Implementation of the Quality Assurance System
The creation and implementation of the quality assurance system for education emerged

as a pivotal undertaking during Professor Bhanupong’s tenure, marked by significant challenges
and some resistance from faculty members and units. Recognizing its importance, Professor
Bhanupong dedicated considerable time and effort to this initiative. He established a university
quality assurance committee comprising vice deans for academic affairs from all faculties,

facilitating collaborative efforts to address concerns and devise effective strategies.
Under Professor Bhanupong’s guidance, the university embarked on a comprehensive
process, setting quality indicators, drafting a quality assurance manual, and instituting procedures
for data collection and self-assessment. The Academic Affairs Division took the lead in preparing

the university’s inaugural self-assessment report for the 2000 academic year, laying the groundwork
for subsequent evaluations. Faculty members were subsequently tasked with preparing their self-
assessment reports, with annual evaluations conducted to gauge progress.
Despite initial challenges, the quality assurance system gained traction and recognition,

eventually aligning with standards set by the Office of the Higher Education Commission (OHEC).
This evolution reflects Professor Bhanupong’s foresight and commitment to excellence, ensuring
Thammasat University’s adherence to national and international benchmarks in higher education
quality assurance. Today, this system stands as a testament to his enduring legacy of academic

stewardship and institutional advancement.

2. Establishment of the Thammasat University Research Fund
The inception of the Thammasat University Research Fund marked a pivotal milestone in

supporting the scholarly pursuits of faculty members. Before its establishment, a dearth of specific
funding avenues constrained research endeavors at Thammasat University, compelling faculty to
seek financial support from disparate sources, including external grants or personal finances. The

24 A Life Well-Lived Is a Beautiful Memory