KKUIC Students Launch Charity 3×3 Basketball Tournament to Support Youth with Disabilities The ‘KKUIC 3X3 Street Summer Slam 2026’ Aims to Raise Funds for Sports and Educational Equipment for Srissangwan Khon Kaen School, with Over 100,000 Baht in Prizes

16 April 2026
12:01

Khon Kaen University International College (KKUIC) held a press conference on 10 April 2026 to launch the “KKUIC 3X3 Street Summer Slam 2026,” a charity 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The event was presided over by Nathakorn Loedphacharakamon, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Education, Student Empowerment, and Relations Management. He was joined by Pattanapong Toparkngarm, Ph.D., Department Chair of Business, Innovation, and Applied Science and the project advisor; Dr. Nat Chaijaroen; Mr. Wichayut Chaimontree, a representative from Srissangwan Khon Kaen School; and Mr. Chalong Phumaenkhian, a fourth-year student and the project president. The press conference, held at Room M301 of the Learning and Basic Skills Development Building at KKUIC, was well attended by faculty, students, members of the press, and project sponsors.

The KKUIC 3X3 Street Summer Slam 2026 is an initiative developed by fourth-year students majoring in International Marketing at KKUIC. The project has three primary objectives: to promote health and elevate the standard of 3×3 basketball in the region; to raise funds for purchasing sports equipment and supporting education for students at Srissangwan Khon Kaen School and other under-resourced institutions; and to build a sustainable network of collaboration between the university, the community, and the business sector.

Nathakorn Loedphacharakamon, Ph.D., stated that KKUIC has a clear vision to produce graduates who are not only academically proficient but also true global citizens, capable of applying international knowledge to create tangible benefits for society. The KKUIC 3X3 Street Summer Slam 2026 serves as compelling evidence that classroom learning can yield real-world results.

“This project allows students to practise every stage of a process, from strategic thinking, marketing planning, and budget management to negotiating with businesses and sponsors—all of which are essential skills in the modern workplace. What is even more commendable is that the students are looking beyond their own success to help society by supporting Srissangwan Khon Kaen School, which reflects the College’s core mission to empower youth and care for the community,” said the Associate Dean.

Pattanapong Toparkngarm, Ph.D., the project advisor, remarked on the value of the initiative. “This project represents the culmination of four years of study, applying theoretical knowledge to a real-world task. This is not a classroom simulation; it involves meeting real people, executing a genuine project, and generating actual revenue. The students faced challenges at every step, from drafting the project proposal and negotiating with internal and external bodies to ensuring the event could become a reality.”

“The project also aligns with KKUIC’s core values in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as sport is a powerful tool for developing teamwork, promoting equality, and steering young people away from social risks. I am confident that the dedication of every student involved will cultivate them into future leaders with a commitment to social service,” he added.

Mr. Wichayut Chaimontree, representing Srissangwan Khon Kaen School, noted that although the school’s students have physical disabilities, they possess outstanding athletic potential, with several having trained as national-level athletes.

“What our students need is the opportunity to develop their potential so they can support themselves and their families in the future. We thank the students and Khon Kaen University for recognising the importance of this group of young people and for supporting Srissangwan Khon Kaen School with such generosity. This support will be a significant inspiration for our students, letting them know they are not alone,” Mr. Chaimontree said.

Mr. Chalong Phumaenkhian, a fourth-year International Marketing student and the project president, explained the concept behind the tournament. “3×3 basketball is a fast-paced, exciting sporting trend that appeals to the new generation. Our team combined the culture of street basketball with a summer atmosphere to create the ‘Street Summer Slam’ theme, which serves as both a stage for athletes to showcase their skills and a gathering point that merges sports, music, and lifestyle.”

“What our team is most proud of is not just organising an exciting event, but also providing opportunities to others. All proceeds after expenses will be used to purchase sports equipment for the children at Srissangwan Khon Kaen School and other schools in need. We believe that sport embodies equality, and every child deserves access to standard equipment to develop their full potential. On the event days, in addition to the tournament, we have designed a festival where everyone can join in the fun. There will be creative activity booths, a variety of food and drink stalls, live music to create a full summer vibe, and prize giveaways from our sponsors throughout the day.”
The KKUIC 3X3 Street Summer Slam 2026 is scheduled to take place on 25–26 April 2026, from 07:30 to 18:00 hrs, at the Multipurpose Physical Education Building, Khon Kaen University. The competition is open to athletes in the U13, U15, U17, and U23 age categories. Those interested in competing or seeking more information can visit the Facebook page: 3×3 Street Summer Slam, or search for “3×3 Street Summer Slam”.