Chulalongkorn University

university, Bangkok, Thailand

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July 23, 2026

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Chulalongkorn University, established in 1917 by King Vajiravudh, is Thailand's first institution of higher learning. Named in honor of his father, King Chulalongkorn, the university was a significant development in the modernization of Thailand. King Chulalongkorn himself, who reigned from 1868 to 1910, was a pivotal figure in Thai history. He implemented extensive reforms, including the abolition of slavery and the establishment of a centralized bureaucracy, to prevent Siam (now Thailand) from falling under colonial rule. His efforts laid the foundation for modern Thailand, and the university named in his honor continues this legacy of progress and education.1234

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Thailand
Education
…in Bangkok in 1917 (Chulalongkorn University) to dozens of state and private institutions spread across the country. There are also numerous teachers’ colleges, as well as open universities, military and police academies, and universities for monks that offer bachelor’s degrees. Some postsecondary students who do not attend university obtain…
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…in Bangkok in 1917 (Chulalongkorn University) to dozens of state and private institutions spread across the country. There are also numerous teachers’ colleges, as well as open universities, military and police academies, and universities for monks that offer bachelor’s degrees. Some postsecondary students who do not attend university obtain…
Read More

Vajiravudh
In 1917 he founded Chulalongkorn University, the first in Siam, and in 1921 he made universal primary education free and compulsory. His attempts to close gambling houses and opium dens, however, met with popular resistance.
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In 1917 he founded Chulalongkorn University, the first in Siam, and in 1921 he made universal primary education free and compulsory. His attempts to close gambling houses and opium dens, however, met with popular resistance.
Read More