Students Deliver Grand Royal Welcome to Bhutan’s King and Queen at Chulalongkorn University
Chulalongkorn University held a ceremonial welcome for Their Majesties King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck of Bhutan on December 22, 2025. The event was conducted at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium, during which the royal couple was awarded honorary doctoral degrees.
Ceremony Highlights
The ceremony featured a student procession with 24 participants representing various faculties within the university. This included 22 faculty flag bearers, along with one representative carrying the university flag and another holding the Phra Kiao emblem, a symbol of cultural significance. The procession, coordinated to the university anthem, aimed to demonstrate the students’ respect for the royal dignitaries.
Collaboration and Efforts
The successful execution of the flag procession, despite limited preparation time, was attributed to the collective efforts of students, trainers, and faculty members. Assistant Professor Dr. Chanakida Thummanond, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Education, remarked on the students’ commitment and enthusiasm, which motivated them to participate even during their semester break.
Training Techniques
Training for the procession utilized military-style rehearsal techniques, adapted by Mr. Chalerm Suwannaprapha, a former Royal Thai Navy SEAL. He highlighted the importance of enjoyment during practice, which helped cultivate unity and precision among the participants. Additionally, Mr. Phanthachak Wongprecha, a former diplomat and alumnus of the Faculty of Political Science, provided instruction on international etiquette and royal protocol to adequately prepare the students for the occasion.
Student Reflections
Participating students expressed a sense of pride and fulfillment in representing their university and noted the lasting impact of the event, particularly the encouraging remarks made by Their Majesties, which resonated with them following their performance.
Source: Chulalongkorn University News
