“the UNESCO Learning City Award is a tool to help stimulate the economy of our city.”

Phawarit kanjanakate
Chiang Mai Deputy Mayor

“Chiang Mai is a hub for education, arts, culture, and tourism, all closely tied to the daily lives of its people. The Chiang Mai Municipality views the Learning City project as a way to raise awareness of the city’s value while boosting the economy and improving residents’ quality of life.

“Thus, the municipality is committed to applying for the UNESCO Learning City award this year, which will help stimulate the city’s economy.

“We’re not concerned about learning spaces, as Chiang Mai already offers diverse educational resources and activities for all ages. Our city hosts festivals and traditional events every month, such as the Flower Festival in February, Songkran in April, Inthakhin Ceremony in May, Yi Peng in November, and a December music festival, alongside many community-run traditions. Knowledge in culture, craftsmanship, and nature has always been part of the city’s spirit.

“The municipality’s role is to encourage participation in these festivals, not just as viewers but also as creators. Skilled elders, artisans, and local scholars are present in each of the 100 city communities, and we aim to involve them in sharing their knowledge with visitors and future generations.

“We’re expanding public spaces for all ages. Recently, we created an ‘Elderly School’ at district offices where seniors can engage in dance, crafts, and activities, keeping them active and socially connected.

“We’re developing ‘Ping River Park,’ the city’s first riverside skate park, as part of the Learning City project. Former sites like Santitham cemetery and Mengrai slaughterhouse are being transformed into green spaces. The Nakhon Ping District office will become a health promotion center, and the Maekha Canal revitalization project extends to Mahidol Road.

“By 2025, EGAT will return the land around the Old City Moat to the municipality after undergrounding power lines. We plan to improve roads, sidewalks, and shading to make the city more livable and create green spaces for sustainable learning.”