Khon Kaen University’s College of Local Administration has taken a bold step in addressing the escalating PM 2.5 air pollution crisis in northeastern Thailand. By hosting a groundbreaking academic forum titled “The Breath of Isan: PM 2.5 as Local Agendas,” the college has elevated the issue from a regional concern to a pressing national policy priority.

The forum, held on April 8, 2025, at the Udon Tantisunthorn Conference Room, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. Representatives from local administrative organizations across provinces: Nakhon Ratchasima, Amnat Charoen, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen, joined forces with leading experts to tackle the crisis. Among the distinguished speakers were Dr. Chatchaval Aiyathiti, an environmental engineering lecturer at KKU, and Dr. Ninlawadee Promphakping, a researcher with the Well-being and Sustainable Development (WeSD) Research Group. Together, they provided in-depth analysis and actionable strategies to combat the fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) crisis at the local level.

The event was more than just an academic discussion. It served as a rallying point for local leaders, administrators, and policymakers to collaborate on sustainable solutions. The forum emphasized the need for local communities to transition from being passive victims of the crisis to becoming active participants in designing and implementing solutions. By leveraging data, academic research, and the collective power of the people, the forum aimed to empower local networks to drive meaningful change.

“PM 2.5 is not just an environmental issue; it is a direct threat to the quality of life, health, and well-being of the people of Isan,” one speaker passionately declared. This sentiment resonated throughout the event, underscoring the urgency of addressing the crisis as a matter of public health and social equity.

The forum also highlighted the pivotal role of the Center for Public Policy Innovation Development (COLAB) at the College of Local Administration. As a hub for advancing public policy, COLAB is committed to driving initiatives that prioritize the lives, livelihoods, and health of the people of Isan. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the center aims to transform local challenges into national policy solutions.

This landmark event marks a significant step forward in the fight against PM 2.5 pollution, setting the stage for a united effort to safeguard the health and future of northeastern Thailand.

[Thai]

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On April 8, 2025, at the Consulate General of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) in Khon Kaen, a delegation from Khon Kaen University participated in the grand celebration of the 2025 Lao New Year, “Sabaidee Pi Mai Lao”. The delegation was led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chiranut Sa-Ngiamsak, Assistant to the President for Research, along with representatives from the International Affairs Division. The event aimed to strengthen the cultural and diplomatic ties between Thailand and Lao PDR, fostering a warm and festive atmosphere filled with camaraderie and goodwill, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural connection between the two nations.

The celebration was graced by H.E. Mr. Somsak Wilaithon, Consul General of the Lao PDR in Khon Kaen, who warmly welcomed the attendees. Joining the event were H.E. Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR and Mr. Siriwat Pinijpanich, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province, who expressed their congratulations and emphasized the importance of the event in strengthening bilateral relations.

The event featured captivating cultural performances, including traditional dances by the Lao Student Club of Khon Kaen University and a lively Ramwong dance, showcasing the beauty and richness of Lao culture. These performances highlighted the shared cultural heritage and mutual respect between the two countries.

Khon Kaen University also played a significant role in fostering educational collaboration with countries in the region. The university has consistently supported the KKU Scholarship for ASEAN and GMS Countries’ Personnel, providing scholarships to students from ASEAN member states and the Greater Mekong Subregion. This initiative promotes education, research, and graduate-level capacity building while establishing sustainable international academic networks.

[Thai]

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On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the Center for Arts and Culture at Khon Kaen University hosted the grand annual event, “Boon Duean Ha (The Fifth Month Merit-making): Buddha Procession and Respect for Elders”, at the Cultural Village by Si Than Lake. The event aimed to preserve the traditional Heet Sip Song (Twelve Isan Traditions) and reflect the cultural values of the region. This year’s celebration followed UNESCO’s recognition of “Songkran in Thailand” as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023, highlighting the importance of safeguarding Thai traditions. The Boon Duean Ha festival is a significant Isan tradition that KKU has upheld for years.

The festivities began in the late afternoon with vibrant activities, including a sand pagoda-building contest (Tob Prathai), a zodiac cleansing ceremony, a water-pouring ritual for Buddha images and a replica of Phra That Phanom, and a candle-lighting and prayer ceremony for Luang Por Phra Sri. Distinguished guests, including Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the University Council; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Panthongwiriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University; and Mr. Siriwat Pinijpanich, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province, joined the ceremonies. Over 1,000 participants, including university executives, faculty members, students, staff, local community members, and the general public, gathered to celebrate in a warm and lively atmosphere.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Niyom Wongpongkham, Vice President for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy at KKU, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a joyful yet orderly celebration that respects human rights and traditions. He explained, “The Boon Duean Ha: Buddha Procession and Respect for Elders festival provides an opportunity for everyone to reflect on their past actions and seek forgiveness from elders. This year’s event is even more spectacular, with grand processions featuring Buddha images from various faculties and departments, creating a vibrant and unified celebration.”

Following the main ceremonies, attendees were treated to a stunning display of cultural processions, including the Buddha Procession and Respect for Elders and the Nang Sang Khan Parade (Miss Songkran Beauty Queens Parade) from different faculties and departments. These colorful and creative parades showcased the energy and creativity of the younger generation, blending cultural preservation with modern innovation. The event reinforced KKU’s role as a hub for sustainable cultural values. Other highlights included a water-pouring ceremony to honor elders, a floral alms-giving ritual, and captivating Isan cultural performances by Mor Lam (traditional Isan folk opera) artists, creating a warm and proud atmosphere that celebrated the essence of Isan heritage.

Clara Ancilia Pramita Kusumasri and Afif Ihza Abdala, students from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, along with Aye Chan Soe, a student from the International College at KKU, shared their excitement about participating in the grand festival. “We are thrilled to be part of such a fun and magnificent event. This is our first time experiencing Songkran in Thailand and at Khon Kaen University,” they said.

“In our home countries, we don’t have local traditions like this. Today, we got to immerse ourselves in the activities, ceremonies, and parades, which allowed us to deeply appreciate and learn about Isan culture. It was incredibly fun, and we were especially impressed by everyone’s traditional attire. We’re grateful that KKU organized this event for both staff and students to enjoy together, and we hope to join again next year.”

The Boon Duean Ha festival at Khon Kaen University not only celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Isan but also fostered a sense of unity and pride among participants, ensuring that these traditions remain vibrant and relevant for future generations.

[Thai]

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On April 4, 2025, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Khon Kaen University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Center for Sustainable Development and Sufficiency Economy Studies (CSDS) at the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA). The collaboration aims to promote research, knowledge exchange, and the development of sustainable public policies.

The signing ceremony, held at NIDA’s Verapirom Building, was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Orathai Piayura, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at KKU, alongside key faculty members, including Dr. Nathatai Manadee, Asst. Prof. Dr. Prapas Kaewketpong, Dr. Kantaphong Chitkla, and Ms. Pennapa Wansasueb. Representing NIDA was Assoc. Prof. Pol. Lt. Col. Dr. Kasemsarn Chotchakornpant, Director of CSDS, along with other personnel.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Orathai Piayura highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “This collaboration is a significant milestone for knowledge exchange and joint research. It will pave the way for creating policy-oriented knowledge that addresses the needs of Thai society and supports sustainable development in a meaningful way.”

The MOU establishes a framework for academic collaboration between the two institutions, focusing on advancing policy-oriented research and promoting the principles of sufficiency economy and sustainable development. Future initiatives will include joint research projects on public policy, community development, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, the partnership will facilitate the exchange of researchers, students, and knowledge, fostering mutual learning and enhancing academic capabilities.

This collaboration underscores the commitment of both institutions to driving research-based policies into actionable outcomes, contributing to Thailand’s sustainable development goals.

[Thai]

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In celebration of Khon Kaen University’s 60th anniversary and its stride into the seventh decade in 2025, the Khon Kaen University Library has unveiled a new service innovation: the “KKU Research Skill Enhancing Hub,” or simply, “KKU Research Hub.” This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive learning environment and support the development of essential research skills for students, faculty, and researchers.

The KKU Research Hub is designed as a “Phygital Learning Experience”—a hybrid model that combines both Physical and Digital Hubs. It offers a wide array of resources that support every stage of the research process. The content is organized into 12 modules covering all essential steps: Research Question, Literature Review, Hypothesis Generation, Research Design, Sample Size Calculation, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Hypothesis Testing, Result Interpretation, Manuscript Preparation, Reference Management and Research Publication and Presentation

The Hub offers a diverse range of materials including videos, physical books, digital books, journal articles, open-access content, and both traditional and Generative AI-based research tools. In particular, the platform features prompt templates designed to help researchers effectively use Generative AI tools throughout the research process.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, Acting President of Khon Kaen University, remarked during the launch ceremony:  “I commend the University Library for its commitment to developing new services that align with the university’s vision and mission. The KKU Research Hub is a valuable resource that integrates knowledge and tools across all stages of the research process. I encourage students, faculty, researchers, and all interested individuals to utilize this platform to enhance their research capabilities and elevate the quality of their work.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supat Sinawat, Director of the Khon Kaen University Library, also shared:  “As a learning center for all, the KKU Library is dedicated to developing service innovations that support education, research, and innovation excellence. We hope that the KKU Research Hub will become a key resource for all who wish to improve their research skills. We warmly invite students, staff, faculty, and the broader public to explore the Hub, enhance their research capabilities, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge that drives sustainable development in society.”

[Thai]

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