On June 17, 2025, Khon Kaen University (KKU) made history by hosting Thailand’s first-ever “AI First Welcome” to greet new students of the academic year 2025, as part of the university’s 62nd Kalapruek Welcome Ceremony. The event featured an unprecedented fusion of local cultural performance and cutting-edge AI technology, led by an intelligent robot capable of walking, speaking the Isan dialect, and displaying dynamic facial expressions.

This groundbreaking concept was created through a collaboration between students from the Computer Engineering program, Faculty of Engineering, including Mr. Prinya Chaboonruang, Mr. Napat Phadungkij, Mr. Kawin Phakhokthom, Mr. Suphawut Nameuangrak, Mr. Phisit Srichamnart, and Mr. Teerathawat Tamying, and students from the Performing Arts program, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, including Ms. Nahathai Boonmueang, Ms. Natthanok Bandit, Mr. Poompat Khumkhamhaeng, and Mr. Nanawat Chanyaem.

A representative from the engineering team explained:  “We wanted to make an unforgettable first impression for the freshmen, so we designed the robot to walk onstage independently, display expressive digital facial animations, and deliver an opening speech in the Isan dialect using AI-generated voice. All of this reflects the theme of our event—AI First Welcome.”

The robot was equipped with advanced technologies including Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision for facial recognition, and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) for autonomous navigation—enabling it to move freely and interact with the audience in real time.

The atmosphere throughout the event was warm, lively, and filled with excitement. The AI-powered robot quickly became the star of the show, bringing joy to everyone and signaling KKU’s bold stride toward becoming a university of the future, where technology is seamlessly integrated with cultural identity.

For the 62nd cohort of incoming students, this unforgettable welcome marks the beginning of their university journey under the concept:

“Warmth in Every Step, Innovation with AI.”