At the beginning of each new academic year such headlines as "14 Freshman in Hospital after Brutal Initiation Rites by Seniors" are common in newspaper.
The tradition of hazing at universities and schools around the world continues despite the humiliation and physical abuse. Many critics say the tradition has no place in a modern society and that it does more harm than good, but still the tradition continue.
In many Thai universities,freshman have to participate in cheering activities organised by the senior students. They are ordered to sing their school song or respond quickly and correctly to all the questions about the university as if they helped found the school themselves.
"The main purpose of the initiation rite is to build close relationships among freshmen as well as with the senior students. They also learn about the history of the faculty and university," said Sutida Wimuttikosol,21,a university senior. "Senior also learn to apply managerial skills and practice their leadership skills since they have to be responsible for planning and running the event," she added.