A student from the Khon Kaen University training camp is selected as one of the five national representatives to compete in the prestigious IOAA-Jr 2026.
The Promotion of Olympic Science and Technology and Mathematics Education Foundation (POSN) Centre at the Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University has earned international distinction by securing its second consecutive position on Thailand’s national astronomy team. Mr. Klatham Kotthanawadee, a student from Udonpittayanukool School trained at the POSN KKU Astronomy Centre, achieved an outstanding result, winning a gold medal at the 23rd Thailand National Astronomy Olympiad (TAO23). Following this success, he has been selected as one of the five official representatives of Thailand to compete in the 5th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors (IOAA-Jr 2026), scheduled to take place from 1 to 8 November 2026 at Ubon Ratchathani University, Thailand.
A representative from the POSN KKU Centre working committee stated that this achievement reflects the Faculty of Science’s commitment to its core vision: to be a leading academic faculty that generates knowledge and innovation, and develops high-quality human resources in science for national development. This milestone also contributes directly to Khon Kaen University’s broader “Education Transformation” strategy.
Under its mission to provide high-quality education, high-impact research, and academic services that address societal needs, the POSN KKU Centre applies the university’s “SMART” core values to cultivate young talent. The centre emphasises drawing on frontier knowledge to foster an Adaptability for Global Perspective and a strong sense of Social Devotion. By serving as a key institution for nurturing high-potential young scientists and astronomers, the centre prepares future innovators to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness on the global stage.
The Faculty of Science at Khon Kaen University extends its congratulations to Mr. Klatham Kotthanawadee, his family, and Udonpittayanukool School. The Faculty invites the public to support the Thai student delegation in the upcoming international competition. Updates on the event and other scientific excellence initiatives can be followed on the official POSN KKU Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/posnKKU.
