On 30 November 2025, the College of Architecture, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, led by Ajarn Pipat Saksirikasemkul, Associate Dean for Research and Academic Services, brought students to participate in a community network meeting in collaboration with the Thai Health Foundation, the Foundation for Women and Men Progressive Movement, and representatives from Bang Sue, Chatuchak, and Ratchathewi districts. The meeting was held at Wat Sawat Waree Simaram Community, Dusit District, Bangkok, to exchange information, discuss current situations, and explore collaborative approaches to developing “safe spaces for all genders” within an urban community context.

The meeting focused on sharing experiences and knowledge related to reducing risk factors in communities, particularly issues concerning drugs and alcohol consumption. It also emphasized promoting community-based monitoring systems and preventive activities that local communities can continuously implement on their own. The participation of civil society networks, health agencies, non-governmental organizations, and educational institutions fostered collaborative learning and the development of integrated working approaches to enhance safety and quality of life for urban residents.

Through this process, students from the College of Architecture gained valuable real-world learning experiences. They observed spatial challenges within the community and contributed creative ideas and activity designs that could be practically applied. This engagement not only strengthened their professional skills but also meaningfully connected design and urban development knowledge with social contexts.

This initiative reflects the role of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University as a higher education institution working closely with communities and partner networks to lay the foundation for developing safe, livable, and inclusive urban spaces for people of all genders and ages. The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal on Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), emphasizing multi-sector participation and empowering communities to shape their own development directions.

At the same time, reducing social risk factors such as drug use and alcohol consumption helps address economic vulnerability at the household level by lowering expenses and reducing labor-related losses. This preventive approach also contributes to the goal of No Poverty (SDG 1) by fostering environments conducive to stable livelihoods, employment, and long-term community resilience.

This community network meeting therefore represents an important step in strengthening collaboration and shared learning between the university and urban communities, laying the groundwork for the sustainable development of safe spaces for all genders and paving the way for future area-based initiatives that can generate positive social impact.