The collaboration introduces a high-performance computing infrastructure, featuring the cutting-edge H100 GPU server, to elevate AI research, education, and national development.
KHON KAEN – On 16 March 2026, the College of Computing at Khon Kaen University, in partnership with Lenovo (Thailand) Co., Ltd., held the “CP-KKU Lenovo ‘Kaen-Coon’ AI Cluster Official Opening Ceremony.” The event marked the formal launch of a high-performance computing infrastructure designed for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC).
The ceremony was officiated by Associate Professor Sirapat Chiewchanwattana, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Computing, Khon Kaen University; Assistant Professor Praisan Padungweang, Ph.D., Chairman of the Bachelor of Science Programme in Artificial Intelligence; and Ms. Lertluck Kunlasutti, Country Manager of Lenovo (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The event attracted over 200 attendees, including faculty members, staff, students, and technology enthusiasts, at the Wittayawipas 1 Meeting Room, Wittayawipas Building (SC.09), College of Computing.
The “Kaen-Coon” AI Cluster represents a major development in the university’s digital research infrastructure, featuring a high-performance NVIDIA H100 GPU server that is now fully operational to support teaching, research, and innovation projects in artificial intelligence.
The system enables students and faculty members to conduct advanced AI experiments, develop research projects, and enhance their practical understanding of AI technologies relevant to modern industries.
It also provides a structured framework for students and researchers to request and utilise the Kaen-Coon H100 server, aligning with Thailand’s long-term strategy for technological advancement and innovation-driven development.
Associate Professor Sirapat Chiewchanwattana explained that the name “Koon,” chosen for the AI cluster, holds profound, multi-dimensional significance.
“The name ‘Koon’ (คูณ) has a deep, layered meaning. It represents the ‘Ton Koon’ (Golden Shower Tree), the symbolic flower of Khon Kaen province, and signifies a vital ‘foundation’ for our college. In mathematics, ‘Koon’ means ‘multiplier,’ symbolising exponential growth and prosperity. I intend for this name to represent an AI cluster that will drive our academic excellence,” said the Dean. “Furthermore, the ‘Koon’ AI Cluster is a powerhouse that supports not only AI research but also extends to Computer Science, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Cybersecurity. Students and faculty who have begun using the system report that it is exceptionally powerful. I extend my sincere gratitude to our partners, Lenovo and NVIDIA, for their collaboration in advancing this knowledge. We aim for ‘Koon’ to become a pivotal centre for producing high-quality AI professionals for the nation.”
In her presentation on the Lenovo AI Vision, Ms. Lertluck Kunlasutti remarked, “Today’s world has fully integrated AI into both our personal and professional lives. While many may worry about AI replacing humans, I wish to say that this change is not a distant concept—it is already happening. For example, the ‘Dark Factory,’ an intelligent, completely dark facility spanning over 50,000 square metres, can produce more than 10,000 computers per day without a single light on, as the entire production line operates autonomously without human oversight.”
“However, within this seemingly daunting change lies a tremendous opportunity,” she continued. “Data from the World Economic Forum indicates that while 92 million traditional jobs may disappear, over 133 million new jobs related to AI and Big Data will emerge by 2030. Therefore, from the perspective of modern management, the skills that industry and Lenovo seek in new graduates are not merely textbook knowledge or theoretical application. We look for individuals with the spirit of an innovator, creativity that AI cannot replicate, complex problem-solving abilities, and, most importantly, the capacity for teamwork and communication.”
“I can therefore affirm that Khon Kaen University is on the right path. By integrating this AI cluster as a tool for students to experiment, conduct research, and gain familiarity while still at university, you are cultivating their potential to enter the professional world with a distinct advantage,” Ms. Kunlasutti concluded.
Following the opening ceremony, Assistant Professor Praisan Padungweang delivered a technical presentation outlining the system architecture and service guidelines for the ‘Kaen-Coon’ H100 AI Cluster, including examples of research projects that have already utilised the infrastructure. The programme also featured an introduction to the LiCO AI platform, an intelligent software system for managing AI cluster resources, presented by specialists from PTOA Center Co., Ltd. and Lenovo (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The event concluded with a lucky draw activity, helping to strengthen collaboration and engagement between the academic and private sectors.
The launch of the ‘Kaen-Coon’ AI Cluster marks a significant milestone for Khon Kaen University in upgrading its digital infrastructure to international standards. It also stands as a key component in strengthening Thailand’s AI ecosystem, poised to deliver high-quality innovations and personnel that will create a lasting positive impact on the nation’s economy and society.
