On September 10, 2024, the College of Local Administration (COLA) at Khon Kaen University took a significant step in preparing its students for the future of urban planning by teaming up with Sila Municipality. The collaboration aims to equip third-year students from the Urban Management and Urban Technology program with hands-on experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a powerful tool for modern city planning.
The initiative kicked off with a comprehensive orientation session led by Mr. Sukul Suyungkul, Head of the Building Control Division, and Ms. Teerada Prawasenung, Assistant Urban Planner from Sila Municipality. The session prepared the students for their upcoming field surveys within the Sila Municipality area, where they will gather essential geospatial data for their coursework in GIS and Applications for Urban Planning (CL303602).
The collaboration is part of an ongoing effort to bridge academic knowledge with real-world application. Asst. Prof. Dr. Krisada Prachumrasee, the course instructor, and Dr. Rasita Dasri will guide the students through the fieldwork, ensuring that the data collected is not only accurate but also valuable for future urban planning projects. The field survey will be conducted in close coordination with Sila Municipality, emphasizing thorough planning and detailed data collection to facilitate effective urban development.
Mr. Sukul highlighted the importance of GIS in modern urban planning, stating, “GIS is a crucial tool for collecting precise spatial data, which is vital for analyzing and addressing urban challenges. This fieldwork will give students direct experience with GIS technology, enhancing their ability to apply these skills in real-life scenarios.”
Asst. Prof. Dr. Krisada echoed this sentiment, adding, “Mastering GIS goes beyond academic understanding. It prepares our students to be active contributors to local and societal development. This partnership with Sila Municipality offers a unique opportunity for our students to develop their skills through hands-on experience in real-world urban projects.”
This practical approach to education marks a vital step in preparing the next generation of urban planners. The skills and knowledge gained from using GIS will empower students to contribute meaningfully to the future of urban development, making this collaboration a win-win for both the students and the communities they will serve.
