In a groundbreaking achievement that marks a new chapter in Thai higher education, Khon Kaen University has emerged as the first university to clinch the prestigious TQC+: Societal Contribution Award, while its Faculty of Engineering secured the TQC+: Operation Award at the 23rd National Quality Awards Ceremony 2024. The momentous ceremony, organized by the Thailand Productivity Institute (FTPI) under the Ministry of Industry and the National Quality Award Office, took place at the Aksra Theatre, King Power, on February 13, 2025.
Prestigious Recognition of Excellence
The award ceremony, presided over by Mr. Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen, Secretary to the Minister of Industry, brought together distinguished leaders including Mr. Piyabutr Cholvijarn, Chairman of the National Quality Award Committee, and Mr. Surachet Polwanich, Acting Director of the Thailand Productivity Institute. The event honored 12 outstanding Thai organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to elevating standards toward global excellence.
A Legacy of Social Impact
“This recognition reflects our 60-year journey of unwavering commitment to societal development,” declares Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, KKU’s President, who was also honored with the Leadership Excellence Award. “From celebrating our 50th anniversary to marking 60 years of innovation and development in 2024, every sector of our university has worked tirelessly to advance education, research, academic services, and cultural preservation. Our ultimate goal remains the well-being of society, and this award validates our systematic approach and achievement of objectives.”
Engineering Excellence Meets Global Vision
The Faculty of Engineering’s achievement under the leadership of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ratchaphon Suntivarakorn showcases KKU’s commitment to operational excellence. “Our success stems from a clear vision, inclusive communication, and the integration of feedback from all stakeholders – students, service recipients, and research funders – to continuously improve our processes,” shares Dean Ratchaphon, who also received the Leadership Excellence Award.
“As a faculty specializing in design, analysis, and innovation, we’re setting our sights on the TQC+ Innovation award and ultimately the TQA. Our ‘Global Engineering for All’ vision represents our commitment to leveraging knowledge for sustainable societal development. This award confirms the quality of our management system and assures our students they will graduate as highly qualified professionals while contributing to meaningful research and innovation.”
National Recognition, Global Impact
Mr. Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen emphasized that the National Quality Awards demonstrate Thai organizations’ dedication to improving quality and standards for global competition. He stressed the importance of balancing industrial development with social and environmental responsibility, alongside public welfare.
A Celebration of Excellence
The ceremony reached its emotional peak during KKU’s award announcement, with the university’s management team and staff erupting in jubilant cheers of “KKU! KKU!” while displaying congratulatory signs. The celebration concluded with a commemorative group photo session, capturing the collective pride of the KKU community.
Distinguished Company
Among the 12 recognized organizations, the awards were distributed as follows:
Thailand Quality Award (TQA):
- Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives
Thailand Quality Class Plus (TQC+):
- Customer: Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University
- Innovation: Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University
- Operation: Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University
Societal Contribution:
- Export-Import Bank of Thailand
- Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation (TCG)
- Khon Kaen University
Thailand Quality Class (TQC):
- Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University
- Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University
- CP Retailink Co., Ltd.
- RFS Co., Ltd.
Looking Forward
This milestone achievement not only celebrates KKU’s past contributions but also sets the stage for its future aspirations. As Thailand’s higher education landscape evolves, KKU stands ready to lead the way in academic excellence, innovation, and societal development, proving that world-class education and local impact can go hand in hand. The dual recognition reinforces KKU’s position as a leading institution committed to both operational excellence and meaningful societal contribution.