Wai Kru Ceremony : Opened the heart of the President of Ubon Ratchathani University Student Organization on the cancellation of bowing down in the Wai Kru and Bai Sri Su Kwan ceremony.

President of Ubon Ratchathani University Student Organization revealed that The “Abolition of Prostration” in the 2022 Wai Kru and Bai Sri Su Kwan Ceremony today (June 30) is not a coercion and degradation of traditional cultural values. and respect for the rights of students who want to continue the model of respect for teachers as before

After two years of hiatus from organizing important ceremonies of Ubon Ratchathani University due to the COVID-19 outbreak This comeback has created a wave of criticism in society. Especially after the new student organization Ubon Ratchathani, which was recently elected in March, announced “cancelling the prostration” at the Wai Kru and Bai Sri Su Kwan ceremony, replacing it with a “wai”.

Shortly after the message posted on the Ubon University Student Organization’s Facebook page was published, the opinions of the people of the society split into two sides, both agreeing and opposing. So far, the post has received nearly 400 comments and has been shared more than 2,000 times, and has been spread by the media nationally.

An explanation from the Ubon University Student Organization on this issue is Want to promote equality and equality covered with respect mutual respect

One of the critics was Mr. Wimon Sainimnuan, a S.E. Write Award-winning writer. Has posted a message on Facebook on 25 June to such a case that “Do not bow, do not bow But in the head, there may only be a substitute for the brain, because bowing is the highest respect for the benefactor, such as bowing to the monks, bowing to the Buddha images that represent the Buddha, bowing to parents, teachers, etc.

In addition to the objection of some people in society This issue also creates discomfort among the administrators of Ubon Ratchathani University.

Mr. Suprasit Chinnawong, president of the Ubon University Student Organization, who is currently a 4th year student of the Faculty of Political Science, told the BBC Thai that From observing the rituals that are traditionally performed annually in the past, it was found that “Prostration” is a culture in the former slave system in Thai society. Therefore, there is a question whether it is appropriate to change this ritual or not.

“In the prostration It is like embracing what Thai society has always been oppressed with. Therefore, it is considered Let’s try to become a culture from prostrating to paying respect? which does not detract from that social or cultural value at all. It’s just a change of form and method,” explained the President of Ubon University Student Organization.

When asked if the resolution of the Ubon University Student Organization affects the rights of other people, he replied that according to principles, the student organization has the right to declare such matters fairly. because the Student Organization is the representative of the students If anyone feels that their rights are affected, they can go through a review process at the student council level. which is responsible for checking the student organization again

“In the event, we do not force (participants) whether to bow or pay respect. Just announcing on the theme of the event you want to pay respect to. because they want to change society and culture in a new way that is creative and maintains the same values”

Each year, the ceremony of Wai Kru and Bai Sri Su Kwan There are approximately 3,200-3,400 students at the event, all of them are first-year students, starting around 12.00 noon this year. and various entertainment activities for students of various faculties

from social pressures and concerns of Ubon Ratchathani University administrators on this matter. This made it a source of discussion between the President and the University of Ubon Ratchathani administration on June 28, together with student organizations, student councils, and student club presidents from each faculty to find solutions and guidelines.

The summary of the discussion, which was published on the Facebook page of the Office of Student Development, Ubon Ratchathani University, consisted of showing respect. It reflects the system of relationships we express with each other without any barriers of age, age, experience or status.

Showing respect is a delicate communication. If students show respect whether in traditional or any custom is in the name of “respect” at all

Mr. Suprasit said that he explained to the faculty that Changing such activities does not affect anyone’s rights. but to adapt to the changing world trends And not causing damage and maintaining cultural values, still presenting Isan culture and carry on the cultural heritage of the Isan people and can create a thoughtful impact on students who are interested in culture

“The conclusion in the discussion group that day is to look at each halfway On the day of the event will not force first year students, which is already my policy. because it is the student’s right to bow down or pay homage,” he explained.

Political science scholars in the area noted that What is happening at Ubon Ratchathani University today (June 30) is partly reflecting a form of social movement. especially the values ​​and values ​​in the relationship between teachers and students that are changing. amid the differences between people of different ages and different opinions

Dr. Thitipon Phakdiwanich, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, Ubon Ratchathani University told BBC Thai that The way of thinking about the importance between teachers and students or students has changed over time.

“I think it’s time for Thailand to look at changes. Holding on to the past culture is something that must be preserved. But preserving it should be preserved according to the changing context to be appropriate. and is consistent with the way of thinking of people and the way of life of people today,” said the scholar.

He further explained that If considered through the relationship between teachers and students The old concept will focus on the matter of “merit” even though it should be a career perspective. (professionalism) that work more efficiently

According to the viewpoint of this political science scholar, The idea that teaching is a virtue that students must be grateful for. The way of thinking has been deeply rooted in Thai society for a long time. until sometimes leading to problems such as Teachers in educational institutions violate the rights of students. Because summoners are so cultivated and are not afraid to question and demand justice from their discrimination.

However, if looking from another angle As for the students or the new generation, they should respect the rights of others. without forcing those who disagree to act and also open space for those who disagree with respect

“The older generation may need to be more open to listening to the new generation. At the same time, a number of young people speak of their rights that they sometimes overlook their respect for the rights of others. For example, in some cases he may not want to change, we should not force them to change. But let him learn on his own.”