A landmark event — Khon Kaen University (KKU) brought its 8th University Council Meeting of 2025 to the South, hosting a special knowledge exchange session with Prince of Songkla University (PSU) in Songkhla Province on 7–8 August 2025. The program aimed to deepen academic collaboration, share expertise, and explore science and innovation for sustainable university development.
The opening session was honored by Prof. Sanit Aksornkaew, Ph.D., Chairman of the PSU University Council, who warmly welcomed the delegation. The event was attended by Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the KKU University Council; Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of KKU; and Asst. Prof. Niwat Keawpradub, Ph.D., President of PSU, along with executives and academics from both institutions. Activities took place at Centara Hotel, Hat Yai, and at the PSU Science Park.
The program featured the official University Council and Executive Board meetings, a panel discussion, and study visits to PSU’s science and innovation facilities.
During the knowledge exchange forum, Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee remarked:
“Southern Thailand is a region of rich natural resources, cultural diversity, and immense development potential, yet it also faces complex, unique challenges. PSU has long been a pillar in advancing the region through academics, innovation, and sustainable social development. The KKU–PSU partnership is not only an academic exchange but a merging of strengths to generate tangible, positive impacts for society. In an era where universities must be more than educational institutions, cross-regional collaboration is a vital force to improve quality of life, enhance understanding of local contexts, and jointly build a better future for the nation.”
Prof. Sanit Aksornkaew highlighted:
“National development is not the responsibility of one group alone — everyone must work together for the country, especially in research and innovation. We must learn from one another. For example, the South is rich in resources such as jasmine rice, oil palm, and coastal ecosystems. We must study and develop these sustainably. I commend KKU for its ability to transform local knowledge into practical benefits for communities.”
Asst. Prof. Niwat Keawpradub added:
“I appreciate the Chairman’s vision in selecting PSU for this exchange to begin collaboration in four areas — research and innovation, academic services, education, and preservation of traditions. I believe this meeting will be a strong starting point, and within the next 3–6 months, we will see concrete results in collaborative research, smart use of local resources, and impactful outcomes in the near future.”
This offsite University Council meeting and exchange with PSU represents a significant step in fostering national-level cooperation between universities in academic, research, and management fields. It aligns with KKU’s strategy to strengthen both internal and external partnerships toward shared sustainable development goals, laying a strong foundation for future collaboration in research, innovation, and the intelligent use of local resources.
News: Benjamaporn Mamuk
Photos: Nattapong Chamnanuuea
