Department of Economics organised a field study for Economics students enrolled in the course Project Appraisal on 29 January 2026 in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The project aimed to enhance students’ understanding of project analysis through real-world contexts, including water resource management, community development, value addition to agricultural products, and natural resource management. This was achieved through site visits to government agencies, local communities, and conservation areas, enabling students to apply the acquired knowledge to the analysis of projects from economic and sustainability perspectives.

Study Sites and Activities include:

1. Regional Irrigation Office 16 (Hat Yai): The study focused on water resource management systems and economically oriented flood mitigation strategies, through expert lectures and discussions with local specialists.

2. Thung Tam Sao Municipality: Students examined community development policies and the promotion of agritourism, as well as food product processing initiatives. Local entrepreneurs presented developed products, allowing students to observe and analyze value addition in agricultural products—particularly cocoa—through hands-on exposure to actual production processes guided by local experts.

3. Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary: The visit emphasized natural resource management and conservation area administration, including a briefing on the historical background of the sanctuary, along with participation in eco-recreational activities.