A student-led project on low-carbon rice farming earns global recognition, highlighting sustainability, innovation, and real-world impact
Students from RIS Ruamrudee International School have been named winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Global High Schools category (East Asia & Pacific), in recognition of their student-led project promoting low-carbon rice farming in Thailand.
The Zayed Sustainability Prize is an international award established by the United Arab Emirates to honor innovative solutions addressing global challenges in sustainability, including climate action, food systems, health, energy, and education. Winners are selected for their ability to demonstrate measurable impact and long-term community benefit.
The award was presented during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, attended by more than 3,500 global delegates, including Heads of State, policymakers, business leaders, scientists, and academics. The ceremony celebrated 11 global winners and paid tribute to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, while highlighting practical solutions advancing the global sustainability agenda.
The RIS student team—Sithsakorn (Marc) Jantrakul, Rattavinat (Tonnam) Yuttayong, and Phuwakrit (Ren) Wannakornkit (Class of 2026)—developed Future of Good Life, a project focused on reducing methane emissions in rice farming through improved data collection, field monitoring, and education. The initiative also works with schools to raise awareness among young people about climate-responsible agriculture.
Reflecting on the recognition, Marc Jantrakul said the award reinforced their commitment:
“Winning the Zayed Sustainability Prize reminds us not to give up and not to stop. It pushes us to keep improving what we’ve started and to continue working toward real change.”
Ren Wannakornkit emphasized the responsibility that comes with the win:
“This award shows us that what we are doing matters. It motivates us to keep supporting farmers while also helping address climate change in a practical way.”
For Tonnam Yuttayong, the prize validated the team’s direction:
“Being recognized on a global stage confirms that youth-led projects can make a meaningful difference, not just locally but beyond.”
During their visit to Abu Dhabi, the students also met with representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy Abu Dhabi, who commended the students’ initiative and encouraged continued collaboration in the future.
Dr. Nathan Meisner, High School Principal at RIS Ruamrudee International School, noted that the achievement reflects the power of student learning grounded in purpose and service, emphasizing the school’s commitment to nurturing globally minded leaders.
With support from the Zayed Sustainability Prize, the team plans to further develop Future of Good Life, expand engagement with farming communities, and continue promoting sustainable rice practices—demonstrating how Thai students can contribute meaningfully to both national priorities and global climate action.
