Health promoting operations on exercise of Prince of Songkla University

Abstract

      This article is part of qualitative research. Its objective is to analyze strategies for health promotion, especially in exercise based on the 11^th Prince of Songkla University Strategic Plan (2012-2015). For this documentary research, related documents were analyzed.  It was found that Prince of Songkla University has continuously given priority to health promotion, especially exercise. Thus, the university has participated in the health promotion project of Thailand for higher education institutions operated under Health Promoting Universities Project supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation. The university has carried out projects and organized many multi-dimensional activities in the alignment with the principles and strategic plans of health promoting universities widely used in Thailand. They include environment improvement, new exercise equipment and facilities installation, training programs for health, sports and fitness activities management, a physical fitness test for students and staff, dissemination of knowledge on health and benefits of sports and fitness. However, health promotion operations of the university has received limited attention from students and staff. In addition, there has been inadequate budget for projects management due to inadequate strategic planning for proactive operations on the part of the university in continuously driving the ongoing projects and making them sustainable.