Mathelites to the World: Thaksin University, Phatthalung Campus
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The Mathelites Club successfully organized the "Mathelites to the World" international mobility program from August 6-10, 2024, at Thaksin University, Phatthalung Campus, Thailand. This program brought together 38 students from the Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics with Honours program and four respected chaperones, providing a valuable opportunity for international academic exchange. Through this event, students and staff had the chance to learn from one another and build meaningful connections. The success of this program clearly demonstrates the Mathelites Club's ability to effectively manage and execute international events, making a positive impact on all participants.
The program began with participants and chaperones departing from UMPSA early in the morning on August 6, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. The chaperone team was led by Dr. Mohd Khairul Bazli Mohd Aziz, Mathelites Advisor, along with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sham Mohamad, Deputy Dean of Academic & Student Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noryanti Muhammad, Director of the Data Management & Analytics Centre, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roslinazairimah Zakaria. After a day-long journey, the group arrived at Thaksin University on August 7, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.
On the second day, participants were warmly welcomed by Thaksin University, followed by an orientation session. The day was filled with academic activities, including a workshop on Statistical Modeling in Data Science led by Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noryanti Muhammad. Participants also took part in hands-on sessions such as "Classification Model" and "Hidden Population Size Estimation" by Dr. Orasa Nunkeaw, as well as a session on Teachable Machines led by Dr. Suwimol Jungjit. The day concluded with collaborative group activities with local students, fostering both academic exchange and cultural learning.
Day three was dedicated to cultural immersion, allowing participants to explore the local traditions and natural beauty of Thailand. The day began with an interactive tie-dye workshop at Srinaka Model, where participants created colorful clothing using natural dyes. This was followed by a community service project at Khao Kram Waterfall, where the group contributed to environmental preservation efforts. The evening was a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange, featuring traditional Thai dance lessons and a language exchange session. The highlight of the night was a cultural event where students from UMPSA and TSU performed together, showcasing traditional dances and musical performances. The evening concluded with a traditional welcome dinner, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
On the fourth day, participants experienced the natural beauty of Thale Noi Lake at dawn, witnessing a breathtaking sunrise. The day continued with a craft workshop on weaving "Krajoode" seagrass at Varni Craftstay, followed by a visit to the local market and a tour of Phatthalung City. The program concluded with the group visiting UNIMAP for a night before returning to UMPSA the following morning.
Reflecting on the experience, participants shared that the "Mathelites to the World" program offered a unique blend of academic learning, cultural exchange, and community service. The program left them with lasting memories and strengthened international friendships. The success of this event, organized by the Mathelites Club, highlighted the importance of educational exchange in bringing people together and promoting global understanding.
Author: Dr Mohd Khairul Bazli Mohd Aziz
Author: Dr Mohd Khairul Bazli Mohd Aziz