Alumni and current students of Uthenthawai staged a protest at the Ministry of Higher Education, opposing the relocation of their educational institution. Meanwhile, Chulalongkorn University sent a letter to the ministry affirming that the land will be used for public benefit and not for commercial purposes.
On 22 Oct 2026, reporters observed that in the afternoon, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) placed metal barricades at the entrance on Yothi side, closing that gate and allowing access only through the Rama 6 Road entrance. Police were deployed to maintain strict security after around 300-400 alumni and students of Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Uthenthawai campus, marched from their campus holding signs reading “Oppose Uthenthawai Relocation” and “Education Development or Land Grab?” to submit a letter at the ministry.
A representative of Uthenthawai alumni said they came today to reclaim the rights of current students to return to their original campus because students currently have no place to study and are learning online. They added that if the ministry truly believes online learning is effective, they should mandate it nationwide to save travel expenses.
Therefore, today they request to study on the original land, which was designated for education. However, the minister has ordered a 90-day suspension of classes, severely impacting current students. They are exercising their rights as alumni to demand answers, though they are unsure what response they will receive.
Current students stated that regardless of the outcome, they insist on not relocating. They protested because they are deprived of basic educational rights and have no place to study. The issue is about education, not conflicts or campus fights. Current students pledged that no further fighting will occur.
Reporters noted that Chulalongkorn University President Professor Dr. Wiles Phurivat sent a letter dated 22 Oct 2026 to the MHESI minister concerning the use of the Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Uthenthawai area. The letter confirmed that the university’s development plan for the area is intended for public benefit, not for commercial profit.
At 15:30, Deputy Prime Minister and MHESI Minister Yotsanan Wongsawat will chair a meeting with ministry executives, the Metropolitan Police Commander, and related agencies to find solutions and consider the demands of the Uthenthawai campus and Pathumwan Institute of Technology. After the meeting, Yotsanan will hold a press conference to summarize the discussion and outline the way forward.