On 27 August 2026, the Legal Affairs Division, Walailak University, participated in the university unit innovation presentations for fiscal year 2026 at WU Innovation SDG Plus 2026. The event was held at the Phatthara Thammaphon Conference Room, Walailak University Medical Center. The Division presented its innovation entitled “WU-PDPA: Advancing Comprehensive Data Governance and Personal Data Protection 2026.”
From Fragmented Operations to University-wide Data Governance
The WU-PDPA initiative was developed to advance the University's personal data protection operations. It transforms a fragmented model—in which information, processes, and operational evidence were distributed across various units— into a University-wide Data Governance framework with common standards, clearly defined responsibilities, systematic assessment and monitoring, and evidence-based process improvement.
The presentation outlined the initiative's development—from identifying the pain points and gaps in existing processes, establishing common standards and governance mechanisms, and developing digital assessments and dashboards, to creating a One-Stop Digital Service for PDPA-related services.
Technology Is More Than a Tool— It Enables System-wide Process Transformation
The core of this innovation lies not merely in adopting technology, but in transforming the entire operating process— moving from fragmented practices to standardized processes that can be assessed, monitored, audited, and continuously improved.
Establishing Clear Governance Mechanisms and Accountable Roles
In terms of governance structure, the University has established concrete mechanisms for personal data protection operations. These include clearly defining the roles of the relevant committees, units, and responsible personnel, as well as appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) pursuant to Walailak University Order No. 1013/2026, dated 24 April 2026.
The University's Personal Data Protection Committee also meets regularly. Key meetings included Meeting No. 1/2026 on 1 April 2026 and Meeting No. 2/2026 on 11 August 2026.
Checklist • Online Assessment • Dashboard
Another key component is the use of digital transformation to support operations. Paper-based assessments and data collection have been replaced with checklists, online assessments, and dashboards, providing a comprehensive view of implementation status, enabling progress monitoring, and making management decisions more efficient.
In parallel, the WU-PDPA website is being developed as the University's central hub for personal data protection information and services. This includes guidelines for managing CCTV data and systems that support PDPA operations across multiple dimensions.
Building Knowledge and Awareness and Turning Them into Practice
To foster a strong privacy culture, the Legal Affairs Division prioritizes building knowledge and awareness among staff and students through training, e-learning, and the practical application of shared knowledge.
For example, on 3 July 2026, the Head of the Legal Affairs Division delivered a PDPA knowledge-sharing session for Community Public Health students. The session promoted a clear understanding of how to manage personal and health data lawfully and securely while respecting the rights of data subjects.
Successfully Completed Assessment in Six Criteria
These achievements demonstrate the University's progress in advancing its personal data protection standards. The Office of the Personal Data Protection Committee (PDPC), Personal Data Protection Promotion Bureau, confirmed that Walailak University had implemented the recommended personal data protection standards and successfully completed the assessment in six criteria.
This is a significant outcome demonstrating that the WU-PDPA concept has been effectively translated into practice with tangible results.
Advancing Legal Affairs through Innovation and Data Governance
This presentation highlights the role of the Legal Affairs Division, Walailak University, in advancing the University's legal mission alongside innovation. It seeks to move PDPA operations beyond legal compliance toward data governance, digital trust, and processes that can be audited and continuously improved—contributing to the University's transformation into a smart and sustainable digital university.
Highlights from the Innovation Presentation
WU Innovation SDG Plus 2026
