Congratulations! Mae Fah Luang University Team Triumphs at 'PHYSICAL UI DESIGN-ATHON 2026' with 'Genetic Rescue' Innovation

The National Science Museum (NSM), in collaboration with the Bangkok ACM SIGCHI Chapter, hosted the award ceremony and closing event for the “PHYSICAL UI DESIGN-ATHON 2026.” This national platform empowered youths to co-design concepts and innovative prototypes for physical interaction and interactive learning media. The winning ideas will be further developed into exhibitions and educational activities at FUTURIUM (The Academy of Future Innovation), NSM’s newest learning center. The event took place at the IT Auditorium, Information Technology Museum, NSM, Khlong Ha, Pathum Thani.

The ceremony was honored by the presence of Dr. Kannika Chen, Vice President of NSM, alongside industry experts, including Ms. Pornpat Pimcharoen (Squad Lead Design Experience Team/Associate Director), Mr. Apirak Panathakul (Founder of UX Academy), and representatives from DigiDraw (Thailand) Co., Ltd., who presented the awards and congratulated the winners.

Competition Results: “PHYSICAL UI DESIGN-ATHON 2026” This year, students from Mae Fah Luang University (MFU), Chiang Rai Province, delivered an outstanding performance, securing both the Grand Prize and the First Runner-Up awards:

Grand Prize Winner: Team 'Chor Chae' (Mae Fah Luang University)

Project: "Genetic Rescue" (หน่วยกู้ภัยพันธุกรรม)

Team Members: Ms. Pimmada Narakool, Ms. Phetlada Donchai, and Ms. Kanyapak Parameegas

First Runner-Up: Team 'MBF' (Mae Fah Luang University)

Project: "Choose Your Safe Home"

Team Members: Ms. Pakaporn Jindaratchattatip, Mr. Pakapon Jongjam, and Mr. Sippakorn Pongpanich

Shaping the Future of Learning at FUTURIUM Dr. Kannika Chen, Vice President of NSM, praised the potential of the young Thai innovators, stating:

"This competition serves as a vital platform showcasing the exceptional potential of the new generation. They have successfully applied Physical Interaction Design concepts to develop innovative prototypes that will elevate museum learning experiences. Notably, these projects will be integrated into ‘FUTURIUM’, NSM’s upcoming learning landmark. FUTURIUM aims to cultivate future skills and careers through cutting-edge innovations and hands-on learning experiences.

I would like to congratulate all the award-winning teams. This success reflects your creativity, dedication, and teamwork—qualities that will drive you to become key forces in developing our nation's science, technology, and innovation in the future."

This competition is not merely a stage for pitching ideas, but a significant milestone in elevating the presentation of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). It transforms complex knowledge into creative, modern, and engaging experiences that perfectly match the learning behaviors of the new generation.