"Chachoengsao: A Historic City Advancing Toward Lifelong Learning for All Chachoengsao, also known locally as “Paet Riu,” is a province in eastern Thailand with a rich historical legacy dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Most of the population has long settled along the Bang Pakong River, with deep spiritual devotion centered around the revered image of Luang Pho Sothon, a sacred symbol of the city’s cultural identity. In response to global change and the need for modernization, the Chachoengsao Municipality, under the leadership of Mayor Kalayut Chaisang, launched the Knowledge Center of Chachoengsao (KCC) initiative. The project aims to position the province as an inclusive hub of accessible, community-based learning for all. The KCC initiative is operated through collaboration with key national agencies, including the Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park), the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), and the Equitable Education Fund (EEF). The center features nine themed learning zones, such as a Children’s Library, the KCC Theater, and the Chachoengsao City Historical Hall, all of which are open to the public free of charge. This initiative reflects Chachoengsao’s strong vision of becoming a true Learning City, where lifelong learning is actively promoted and citizens are empowered as key drivers of sustainable urban development. In 2020, Chachoengsao Municipality was officially recognized as a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC). This milestone affirms the city’s commitment to inclusive education, lifelong learning, and building a resilient, knowledge-based future."
"Project Implementation Areas 1. Chachoengsao Municipality 2. Knowledge Center of Chachoengsao (KCC) 3. Tha Khai Community – Royal Property Market 4. Ban Mai Market Community 5. Bang Khla Subdistrict Municipality 6. Pak Nam Subdistrict Municipality 7. Nakhon Nuang Khet Subdistrict Municipality 8. Khlong Luang Phaeng Subdistrict Administrative Organization 9. Samed Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organization 10. Tha Than Subdistrict Municipality"
"Challenges 1. Limited access to inclusive learning spaces for all population groups. 2. Lack of public awareness and understanding of the Learning City concept among local residents. 3. Some areas still lack a clear community identity, which hinders place-based learning and cultural development. Opportunities 1. Abundant natural and cultural resources, such as rivers, fish, local cuisine, and temples, which provide rich foundations for learning. 2. Strong commitment to urban development at both municipal and provincial levels, with a shared vision of becoming a creative city. 3. Robust networks of collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and local communities, providing a solid platform for integrated development."
"1. Leverage collaborative mechanisms with key partners such as municipalities, subdistrict administrative organizations (SAOs), and universities. 2. Conduct training and capacity building for urban learning facilitators, who serve as intermediaries in driving the Learning City initiative. 3. Organize learning forums and multi-stakeholder meetings to foster inclusive dialogue and participatory development. 4. Build networks that support and sustain learning ecosystems across communities. "
"Community-Based Vocational Learning Programs 1. Traditional crafts and folk arts 2. Agriculture integrated with artisanal skills 3. Community-based product sales and marketing 4. Local dessert and snack making 5. Packaging design for local products 6. One-day local tour guide training (e.g., Paet Riu One-Day Trip Guide) 7. Vocational skills rooted in local wisdom, such as traditional Thai massage"
" 1. Collaboration with the Mayor of Chachoengsao Municipality and the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) to ensure strategic alignment and policy support. 2. Development of urban learning facilitators to serve as intermediaries linking various sectors and stakeholders. 3. Integration of learning spaces with public areas to stimulate the local economy and encourage community participation. 4. Organization of Learning Festivals and creative community activities to engage citizens and promote a culture of lifelong learning. "
"City Coordination and Urban Learning Facilitators 1. Implementation of training programs to develop urban learning facilitators equipped to drive the Learning City agenda. 2. Establishment of a network of learning facilitators across seven key project areas to ensure localized coordination and impact. 3. Urban learning facilitators act as vital mechanisms for encouraging public participation in lifelong learning and strengthening community engagement."
"Chachoengsao: A Resource-Rich City Advancing Toward Sustainable Learning and Development Chachoengsao is a city endowed with abundant natural, cultural, and local economic resources. One of its most distinctive identities is its designation as a ""City of Three Waters,"" referring to its diverse water sources—freshwater, saltwater, and brackish water. This unique hydrological landscape has nurtured a rich and fertile ecosystem that supports agriculture, fisheries, and water-related industries. The city is also a multicultural community deeply rooted in Thai–Chinese heritage, which continues to influence its way of life, architecture, cuisine, and annual festivals. Chachoengsao’s cultural richness and diversity provide fertile ground for innovation and inclusive growth. With its strong community foundations, Chachoengsao is embracing its future as a Creative City—one that prioritizes learning, cultural vitality, and sustainable economic development. Through collaboration among the public sector, private sector, and local communities, the city is making strategic strides toward becoming a model Learning City. By leveraging its natural and cultural capital, Chachoengsao is moving forward with a vision of balanced development—economically, socially, and environmentally—while cultivating lifelong learning opportunities for all."
