Khon Kaen, Thailand – On 3 February 2026, at 09:30 hrs., the College of Local Administration (COLA), Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Dr. Rosita Dashri, Deputy Director of COLAB, participated in the third public consultation meeting for the drafting of the Khon Kaen Provincial Comprehensive Plan. The meeting took place at the Yodsila Auditorium, Sila City Municipality, as part of the Khon Kaen Provincial Comprehensive Plan Project.

The meeting was officially opened by Mr. Supharat Ponthongsathit, Deputy Mayor of Sila City Municipality, representing the Mayor. This session was specifically held for Group 2, covering the areas of Sila City Municipality, Samran Sub-district Municipality, and Nonthon Sub-district Municipality.

The event was co-organised by the Department of Public Works and Town Planning (Central Office) and the Khon Kaen Provincial Public Works and Town Planning Office. Its objective was to clarify the detailed guidelines for preparing the draft comprehensive plan for Khon Kaen Province, encompassing land use dimensions, infrastructure, transportation systems, and sustainable urban development. The forum also allowed administrators of local administrative organisations, council members, private sector representatives, and local residents to express their opinions, raise concerns, and propose development approaches aligned with the actual local context.

The participation of COLA students in this event constitutes a vital part of the Experiential Learning process, providing them with a concrete opportunity to observe the practical steps involved in local public policy determination and public engagement.

Dr. Rosita Dashri, Deputy Director of COLAB, remarked:

“Sustainable urban development must genuinely begin with listening to the public voice. Today’s forum reflects the power of participation, which is the crucial heart of contemporary public affairs management. The College of Local Administration is committed to fostering a new generation of local administrators who understand the urban context and their communities, and who can link academic knowledge with practical implementation. This ensures we collectively drive balanced and sustainable local development.”

This participation underscores the role of the College of Local Administration, Khon Kaen University, in supporting local public policy development and promoting sustainable public participation. This approach ensures that the drafting of the Khon Kaen Provincial Comprehensive Plan is comprehensive, transparent, and responsive to the long-term future of Khon Kaen Province.

COLA remains dedicated to fulfilling its missions in education, research, and academic services to create value for society and effectively support sustainable local development.