29/05/2026
The SDP 2025–26 cohort has just returned from an incredibly fulfilling overseas practice engagement (OPE) in Chiang Mai, Thailand 🇹🇭
Hosted by the wonderful School of Public Policy, Chiang Mai University, the programme ran from 29 April to 9 May and brought together intensive fieldwork, critical reflection, and deep engagement with urban life.
This year’s overarching theme—urban inhabitation—explored the many ways people live, adapt, and negotiate space within the city. Working in six groups, students examined diverse themes including:
Housing and environmental linkages
The burden of spatial labelling
Resilient communities
Human–nature relationships
Tourism and urban transformation
Multiculturalism
The programme blended mixed-methods research—from (non)participant observation and walking interviews to formal interviews and visual methods—engaging a wide range of stakeholders: government officials, grassroots movements, spiritual leaders, street vendors, academics, business owners, professionals, and the wider public.
A key highlight was the interactive public exhibition, where research findings were shared and enriched through dialogue with local stakeholders. This participatory approach reflects SDP’s commitment to learning with communities, not just about them.
We are deeply grateful for the warmth, hospitality, and sustained support of CMU and their urban collaborators. Special thanks to the group buddies and facilitators, whose insight and guidance made this work truly meaningful.
Presentation titles included:
Housing and Riverbank Settlements along Mae Kha Canal
The Effects of Designating Chang Moi as a “Creative District”
The Multicultural Communities of Wat Gate, Chiang Mai
Human–Nature Co-existence: The Yang Na Corridor
Local Knowledge in a Changing World: Traditional Craftwork in Wua Lai
Sacred Spaces and Spirituality in Chiang Mai
An enriching experience of listening, learning, and reflecting on development practice—one that will stay with us well beyond the field.
