On September 26, 2025, Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Prof. Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, participated in the 5th meeting of the Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee for Economic Development (JPPCC) for the Central Northeastern Provincial Cluster. The meeting, held at the Phetcharat Hotel in Mueang Roi Et District, Roi Et Province, was part of an integrated cooperation project aimed at exchanging knowledge and opinions on driving the committee’s operations.

Mr. Padungsak Im-erb, Deputy Governor of Kalasin Province, chaired the meeting, which saw broad participation from various government agencies and private sector representatives across the northeastern provinces.

The primary objective of the meeting was to discuss effective strategies for addressing economic challenges within the Central Northeastern Provincial Cluster. The discussions focused on fostering integrated cooperation among the public sector, private sector, and local communities to drive concrete and impactful initiatives. The ultimate goal is to strengthen and ensure the sustainable growth of the regional economy.

Khon Kaen University’s involvement in this meeting underscores its commitment to its social mission. The university aims to leverage its academic knowledge, expertise, and research outcomes to support problem-solving at both local and regional levels. This effort seeks to create economic growth opportunities, reduce inequality, and build strong partnerships among all sectors. These objectives align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).