The collaboration aims to cultivate “Smart People” among Thai youth, driving social innovation for sustainable development.
The Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy (KKBS) at Khon Kaen University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Company Limited (TTA) to participate in the “TTALAB Gen 3” project. KKBS joins a prestigious network of academic institutions that includes Srinakharinwirot University, Prince of Songkla University, and Chiang Mai University. The signing ceremony took place on 7 May 2026, at the Orakarn Building in Bangkok.
The ceremony was attended by executives from all participating organisations. Representing KKBS were Dr. Pongpun Sretthathip, Associate Dean for Industrial Relations and Sustainability, and Dr. Narisara Phalusuk, a lecturer specializing in marketing and digital technology. They were joined by Mr. Chalermchai Mahagitsiri, President and CEO of TTA, and Ms. Harisawan Sirivongse, Managing Director of TTA, along with executives from the three partner universities.
The collaboration falls under the “TTALAB Gen 3” project, which is designed to equip students and youth with the skills to become “Smart People” through design thinking and social innovation. The programme combines online learning with onsite workshops, allowing participants to learn directly from community contexts and understand regional challenges, particularly in the northeastern region. This hands-on approach aims to foster the development of solutions that address sustainable development goals.
The project also offers students diverse experiential learning opportunities, including internships through the TTA Internship programme, an Incubation Program for budding businesses, and an Applied Research programme for solving real-world business problems. These activities are designed to promote practical learning while developing critical thinking, teamwork, and business innovation skills. 
As the representative for the northeastern region, the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy will facilitate project activities by providing space and resources for workshops, prototyping, and a regional showcase for “TEAM ESAN”. KKBS will also provide academic support by assigning expert faculty members and staff to serve as mentors and share their knowledge, thereby enhancing the potential of the youth and building a collaborative network among universities, local communities, and the business sector.
This partnership underscores the role of KKBS in driving integrated learning with the private sector and leading academic institutions. It aims to empower young people with skills in critical analysis, design thinking, innovation, and social entrepreneurship, preparing them for the challenges of the future. This initiative aligns with the Faculty’s vision to be a leading business school that integrates knowledge and innovation with industry to foster sustainable economic and social development.
News : Banphot Pilaphan
Photo by: TTALAB
