On 28th March 2020, Asst. Prof. Dr. Hiran Prasankan, the President of Phuket Rajabhat University, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Nppadon Chanrawang, the Vice President in Student Affairs, led staff of the university project to prevent COVID-19 to give surgical masks to sea gypsies living in Rawai Beach. The activity aimed at elevating the impact of the spread of the virus, so that they can access preventive gear. Moreover, their income is decreasing by the effect of COVID–19. The surgical masks were one of the items donated by the project’s university staff and local residents; other donations included money and supplies. Providing the sea gypsies the surgical masks would mitigate transmissions, as this community is a risky area for the outbreak. Besides they were informed about self-protection and protocol to prevent outbreaks in their community in this intense and unpredictable situation. The area’s prevention, especially in poor communities, is one of the best things that the university could do to support the medical staff who are working hard in treating patients and stopping outbreaks on the island.    

To help fund the project in providing surgical masks, hand sanitizing gel, and consumption goods, please donate to Government Savings Bank (GSB) Account No. 020-3-1143983-8, named Phuket Rajabhat University Donation for COVID–19 or call  08 8168 7421 / 08 9473 2605 / 08 1893 1819 / 09 8824 7649.