Faculty of Technology Takes Lead in Food Management for Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026, Elevating Khon Kaen as an International Marathon Hub

16 January 2026
12:09

Khon Kaen – On 10–11 January 2026, the Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University (KKU), played a crucial role in the management of the 21st annual Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026. This major event received support from Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, and a wide network of partner organisations, with the objective of positioning Khon Kaen as a global running destination, advancing the marathon towards international standards, and stimulating the regional economy and tourism sector.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University. He was joined by Mr. Khajornkiart Rakpanichmanee, Governor of Khon Kaen Province, and Mr. Sukit Sirinarakul, Chairperson of the Committee and President of the Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026 Organising Committee. The ceremony, held at Bueng Si Than within KKU, was attended by institutional executives, sponsors, and runners from across the country.

The event was organised under the themes “Fun Run and Fun Learn” and “The Legend of Isan Running.” The Faculty of Technology was specifically entrusted with the responsibility of managing food and beverages for the runners. Led by Assistant Professor Araya Chaoruangrit, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Technology, her team—comprising lecturers, staff, students, and over 100 food and beverage vendors—delivered services with systematic professionalism and strict adherence to quality standards.

The Faculty of Technology placed strong emphasis on consumer safety and hygiene. As a result, all participating vendors were required to attend a training programme on “Good Hygiene Practices for Food Producers.” This initiative ensured that all food and beverage services met high standards, in alignment with international sanitation and public health regulations.

This year’s event demonstrably reflected KKU’s core strategic goal 3: “Creating Value for Society and Enhancing Internationalisation.” The Faculty of Technology drove this initiative by applying its expertise, creativity, and professional knowledge in food and beverage management, integrating innovation for genuine community service. This action aligns with the Faculty’s vision to become “A leading organisation in creating innovation for social and commercial benefit” and upholds the institutional SMART values, particularly ‘A’ (Adaptable Team for Societal Benefit).

Ultimately, the Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026 succeeded in elevating the concept of marathon event organisation into a new dimension, integrating comprehensive collaboration, creativity, and social responsibility across the dimensions of health, well-being, and quality of life for the community. Following the event’s conclusion, the Faculty of Technology further demonstrated its dedication by donating a portion of the surplus food to social causes under the activity “Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026: Sharing Kindness for Society,” reinforcing the role of the academic institution in sustainably growing alongside the community.