Student Blog

3.5 min read

PRENGO is one of the most well-known student organizations at APU. Founded in 2003, it has a long history on campus. Almost every student has heard of it at least once. Many people know PRENGO as a group that supports education in Thailand. However, not everyone knows what their members actually do. To learn more, I interviewed PRENGO representative Saito Seitaro and Tamura from the public relations department.

Four Departments Driving PRENGO’s Activities

PRENGO currently has around 70 members. The organization mainly works in Surin Province, Thailand. Its activities are divided into four departments: Market Development, Exchange, Education, and Public Relations.

The Market Development Department creates and sells products made with natural dyes from local plants. Members also develop new products using traditional Thai silk. The Exchange Department organizes events called the "Bilateral Market." These events promote cultural exchange between Japan and Thailand. They also create opportunities for local communities to connect with one another. PRENGO works with local partner organizations as well. One example is the "Do What You Want Classroom." PRENGO members teach Japanese language classes there and help encourage children's creativity.

The Education Department offers English lessons for local children. The goal is to help them feel more confident about learning English. Members also organize a program which encourages children to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and broaden their interests. The Public Relations Department helps raise awareness of PRENGO and its activities. Members promote the organization through events such as the “Tenku Festival”. They also sell Thai handicrafts and handmade natural-dye products in Beppu and near Oita Station. These activities introduce Thai culture to local residents while sharing PRENGO's mission.

More Than Just a Student Organization

PRENGO's activities are impressive in both scale and impact. At times, it feels more like a professional nonprofit organization than a student club. What surprised me the most was how well the organization is managed. PRENGO's success comes from the strong commitment of its members. Students must complete an application process and interview before joining. As a result, members enter the organization with a clear sense of purpose and responsibility. This system helps PRENGO maintain its vision even as its activities continue to grow.

Moving Forward Despite New Challenges

Recently, PRENGO has faced a major challenge. Travel restrictions around the Thai-Cambodian border have affected activities in the region where the organization works. Despite these difficulties, PRENGO has continued its efforts. Some programs have been moved online. Members have also used this time to strengthen their skills and knowledge in Japan. They have learned from free schools and other educational initiatives.
Rather than slowing down, PRENGO has continued to develop as an organization.

Looking Ahead

One of PRENGO's founders once described the group's approach as “Moving from providing support to creating support together.” This idea reflects PRENGO's commitment to sustainability and collaboration. The organization is not simply helping communities. It is building partnerships and creating long-term impact.

While writing this article, I was deeply impressed by the dedication of PRENGO's members. They continue to make the most of every situation and remain committed to their mission. Their passion reflects the strength and pride that PRENGO has built over more than twenty years. I look forward to seeing what PRENGO achieves next.

PRENGO: Instagram

Kobayashi Makoto

I want to write articles that will help APU students love their university even more! Additionally, I aim to share the greatness of APU that only current students understand with middle and high school students interested in APU!