Faculty of Agriculture, KKU, turned a rice field into a lively learning hub on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, as over 600 kindergartners and their parents joined the “Planting Futures: Cultivating the Dream of Young Farmers” project. This hands-on event, led by Associate Professor Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, offered young children a unique chance to “plunge into the mud” and experience rice planting firsthand.
Ms. Usaneemas Saiyarin, President of the Faculty’s Student Union, highlighted the project’s goal to ignite agricultural entrepreneurship among university students through practical training and creative activities. By blending traditional rice farming techniques with modern agricultural innovations, the project aims to preserve cultural heritage while also embracing the future of farming.
The initiative also encouraged teamwork, knowledge sharing, and social responsibility among the young participants. The collaboration involved not just the Faculty of Agriculture but also the Demonstration School of Khon Kaen University and Hua Khiew Wittayalai School, bringing together a diverse group of 688 participants, including 588 kindergarteners, 70 university students, and 30 staff members.
Associate Professor Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon expressed heartfelt thanks to the students, young participants, and their supportive parents, noting the event’s success in connecting children with the earth. The Dean emphasized the importance of such experiences in nurturing a love for agriculture among the next generation, with future projects, including a rice harvesting event, already in the works.
The event at the Agricultural Technology Park was filled with laughter and smiles as children eagerly grabbed rice seedlings and learned the basics of planting in a fun, engaging environment. Parents looked on with pride as their children immersed themselves in this hands-on learning experience.
Mr. Weerawit Kam-orn, father of Nong Yeewa, a kindergartner from the Demonstration School, shared his appreciation for the event. He praised the Faculty of Agriculture for organizing such an enriching activity, which not only taught children about the rice-growing process but also instilled a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. He expressed his hopes for more activities like this, which provide meaningful learning opportunities outside the classroom.
This event exemplifies how Khon Kaen University is planting the seeds of knowledge and innovation in the minds of Thailand’s future farmers, ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared to carry forward the nation’s rich agricultural legacy.