In a groundbreaking initiative championed by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Khon Kaen University has launched an innovative botanical training program tha’s transforming how students connect with nature. On January 31, 2025, the university’s prestigious Srisumon Conference Room buzzed with excitement as educators gathered for an intensive hands-on workshop.
“We’re not just teaching about plants; we’re cultivating future environmental stewards,” declared Assoc. Prof. Jutaporn Sawaengkaew, Deputy Director of the Coordination Center for Royal Initiative Projects, Khon Kaen University. Her passionate commitment to the program was evident as she outlined its ambitious goals.
The program has attracted three pioneering schools, each with unique aspirations. The Khon Kaen School for the Deaf is breaking new ground in inclusive botanical education, focusing on understanding plant internal structures and their fascinating properties. Meanwhile, Pisal Punna Wittaya School, Khon Kaen is delving into the remarkable ways plants adapt to their environments, and Khok Lam Phitthayakhom School from Roi Et Province is conducting groundbreaking research on the medicinal properties of Morinda citrifolia (noni).
Under the expert guidance of Asst. Prof. Sakuntala Ninkaew from KKU’s Department of Biology, participants embarked on an immersive journey through the world of plants. The day-long session seamlessly blended theoretical knowledge with practical experience, including an exclusive tour of KKU’s renowned Plant Museum.
This initiative goes beyond traditional botanical education. It’s inspiring the next generation of innovators to develop cutting-edge solutions, from bio-based materials to eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. As part of the prestigious Plant Genetic Conservation Project (PGCP), the program exemplifies KKU’s commitment to environmental stewardship and academic excellence.
The training marks a significant milestone in the Royal Initiative’s vision of integrating natural resource conservation into education. Through this program, KKU continues to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious leaders who will shape our sustainable future.
As these schools work toward their PGCP certifications, they’re not just learning about plants – they’re becoming part of a larger movement to preserve Thailand’s rich botanical heritage for generations to come.
