Wednesday July 12, 2023 – Khon Kaen University carried out the Rachaphruek tree planning project at Phra Thep Vidhayakhom (Luang Po Khun Parissuddho) Monument, Isan Phutthamonthon, Khon Kaen. Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University presided over the event.
Asst. Prof. Arwut Yimtae, Vice President for Infrastructure and Environment, as the representative of the Project reported to the President that the Project has its background from Khon Kaen University’s being authorized to use the forest area of Isan Phutthamonthon, Sila District, Muang District, Khon Kaen as the Monument of Phra Thep Vidhayakhom (Luang Po Khun Parissuddho).
The Division of Public Utilities, Energy and Environment, under the Infrastructure and Environment Section and the Office of the President, thus arranged this “Ratchaphruek Tree Planting” activity. A hundred Ratchaphruek saplings were prepared for the event that commemorated Luang Po Khun Parissuddho’s Centenary. The other objective was to add a green area to the Monument ground for shady and aesthetic purposes.
Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University stated that he was honored to chair the project commencement ceremony of Ratchaphruek tree planting at the Monument of Phra Thep Vidhayakhom (Luang Po Khun Parissuddho).
Phra Thep Vidhayakhom or Luang Po Khun Parissuddho was an instructor and former advisor to the 11th Ecclesiastical Regional Governor and was a former abbot of Ban Rai Monastery, Dan Khun Thod District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The benefactions that Luang Po Khun had done were for a long time beneficial to the country and Buddhism. Although Luang Po passed away in 2015, he is still worshipped by a great number of Buddhist people and disciples in Thailand.
“It is a good chance that Khon Kaen University organizes the Ratchaphruek tree planting activity today. Ratchaphruek tree or Ton Khun bears the flower that is the symbol of Khon Kaen Province. We all commemorate the centenary of Phra Thep Vidhayakhom (Luang Po Khun Parissuddho) and want the trees that we plant to grow and stand bearing the beautiful yellow flowers for a long time.”
After the official opening ceremony ended, Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University led the team to plant Ratchaphruek saplings by first cultivating the soil, planting the trees and watering them. A lot of KKU Administrators, staff and students joined the event, making the ceremony’s atmosphere so enjoyable.
Mr. Chalermpon Saengkaew, an academic officer of the Sports Division said that he was happy to be part of the activity today. Planting trees is another policy seen as important by Khon Kaen University, to add green areas to the campus and outside.
“Today, besides adding green areas to the nature, we are also making merit, for the area around Isan Phutthamonton is an area of faith. Adding shades to the area will extend its beauty with the yellow color of the flowers from Khun trees, and this will make the place a religious and cultural tourism spot in the future.”
News / Photos: Phanit Khatanak
