German Ambassador Visits KKU to Strengthen Thai–German Cooperation in Education, Research, and Innovation

25 February 2026
14:50

The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand paid an official visit to Khon Kaen University to enhance cooperation in education, science, research, and innovation, and to expand collaborative networks with leading German institutions.

On 24 February 2026, Khon Kaen University, led by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President, welcomed His Excellency Dr. Ernst Wolfgang Reichel, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand. The Ambassador’s official visit was aimed at strengthening the close relationship between Thailand and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The welcoming delegation included Assoc. Prof. Nawarat Wara-aswapati, D.D.S., D.M.Sc., Vice President for International Affairs; and representatives from the Faculties of Medicine, Agriculture, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Business Administration and Accountancy, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, and Interdisciplinary Studies, as well as the College of Local Administration, the College of Computing, the Graduate School, and faculty members who are alumni of German institutions.

During the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul delivered a welcome address, highlighting the research collaboration between KKU’s Faculty of Medicine and Heidelberg University Hospital on the PANDA and PANDASIA projects. These initiatives, which focus on enhancing pandemic literacy and preparedness for emerging diseases in Southeast Asia, are supported by international foundations and funding sources, reflecting the global potential of Thai–German partnerships.

The President also stressed the importance of building a network of cooperation through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with leading German academic institutions to drive sustainable development in education and joint research. He cited the Faculty of Agriculture’s Black Soldier Fly project for alternative protein production as a concrete example of collaboration in the bio-economy and innovation. He expressed confidence that the strong understanding and friendship between Thailand and the Federal Republic of Germany will continue to flourish.

His Excellency Dr. Ernst Wolfgang Reichel expressed his gratitude to Khon Kaen University for the warm welcome and praised its role as a leading regional institution for education and research. He commended the university’s research strengths and its capacity to produce high-quality, internationally recognised work.

The Ambassador added that Khon Kaen University’s academic and research strengths provide a vital foundation for expanding cooperation with leading institutions in Germany. This includes joint research, student and researcher exchanges, and the development of socially beneficial innovations. He expressed his belief that the discussions would lead to concrete collaborations and further strengthen the academic ties between Thailand and Germany.

Following the meeting, the Ambassador delivered a special lecture at the International College for students and staff on the topic of Thai–German relations. He emphasised the role of cooperation in education, science, research, innovation, and international affairs, and invited students to participate in an engaging exchange of ideas.

Afterwards, he visited the Faculty of Agriculture to observe the Black Soldier Fly research project and its industrial-scale prototype factory. This project is part of a research collaboration supported by the German Federal Ministry for Research, Technology, and Space, focusing on applying artificial intelligence to optimise alternative protein production, sustainable waste management, and bio-economic development.

The German Ambassador’s visit not only reinforced diplomatic ties but also marked a significant milestone in advancing Khon Kaen University’s internationalisation. This enhancement, achieved through strengthened cooperation in education, research, and innovation, aligns directly with the university’s strategic goal of transforming into a leading international research university.