On 19 January 2018, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn assigned Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) to oversee the Royal Initiative Plant Genetic Conservation Project (RSPG) at Khlong Phai, Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The designated area, approximately 395 rai, serves as a center for applying the “King’s Philosophy” to local resource management for sustainable conservation and utilization. SUT has implemented this mission through the collection and preservation of plant genetic resources, including the country’s largest bael collection of over 7,000 trees, the support of school botanical gardens, and the operation of a training center to strengthen agricultural and community development based on sustainable and organic practices. The university also advances innovation and product development in alignment with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, including the launch of the “Yardpa – Wisdom of the Land” product line, currently featuring naturally dyed patterned silk and 12 varieties of herbal teas.
On 8 August 2018, the Treasury Department formally transferred two parcels of state land in Khlong Phai, totaling approximately 395 rai, previously under the Royal Household Bureau’s supervision for the RSPG project, to SUT for continued operation of the conservation and training centers. The handover ceremony was presided over by the Director-General of the Treasury Department, with SUT receiving the land as the designated agency to carry forward the Royal Initiative in accordance with the university’s mission and the royal intention.
Source : https://www.sut.ac.th/news/detail/1/news20180804