Students from the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy (KKBS), Khon Kaen University, brought pride to the institution by winning the first prize and consolation awards at the 9th National Quiz Competition on Tourism, Hospitality, and Aviation – “GSTM NEXT 2025.” The competition, held on September 9, 2025, was hosted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) under the theme “Smart Tourism and Soft Power Synergies: Advancing Sustainable Development through Cross-Sector Collaboration.”

The KKBS student teams were guided and supported by Asst. Prof. Akkhaporn Kokkhangplu, Ph.D., Lecturer in Hospitality and Event Management, Asst. Prof. Maythawin Polnyotee, Ph.D., Jinnapas Dominic, Ph.D., and Asst. Prof. Raksmey Sann, lecturers in Tourism Innovation Management.

The project aims to enhance the knowledge, skills, and potential of Thai youth, undergraduate, and graduate students in the fields of tourism, hospitality, and aviation, while also encouraging the presentation of innovative ideas to promote creative tourism and sustainable national development. This year’s event attracted more than 1,500 participants or 364 teams from universities across the country.

Competition Results

First Prize (Scholarship of 10,000 THB, honorary plaque, and certificate):
Team “Sai Fah Khwa Champ” – Students from Hospitality and Event Management

1. Ms. Thaninya Sirikasemchok
2. Ms. Thadarath Meeboonmak
3. Ms. Wariyaporn Utta

(First Prize : Team “Sai Fah Khwa Champ” Students from Hospitality and Event Management)

Consolation Prizes (3 teams):

• Team “Payu Luk Mai” – Students from Hospitality and Event Management

1. Ms. Anchuree Plansamrit
2. Ms. Jidapa Phaosakulthong
3. Mr. Phutthithorn Sangkhosom

• Team “TIM KKBS KKU 1” – Students from Tourism Innovation Management

1. Mr. Anurak Sairat
2. Ms. Apinya Suksai
3. Ms. Benyapha Bunprakob

• Team “TIM KKBS KKU 3” – Students from Tourism Innovation Management

1. Ms. Chayapa Piluekphrai
2. Ms. Bundita Kasethong
3. Mr. Phumirapee Sinsonchan

Other participating teams from KKBS included:

• Team “Hua Thaew DIWA” – Students from Hospitality and Event Management

1. MS. Nichakan Chinphak
2. Ms. Thawanrat Payarach
3. Ms. Palita Phumiphak

• Team “TIM KKBS KKU 2” – Students from Tourism Innovation Management

1. Mr. Phumipat Buanphan
2. Mr. Anan Singhachai
3. Ms. Atikan Khaophukhieow

This remarkable achievement highlights the potential of KKBS students to become a driving force in the tourism, hospitality, and aviation industries, both nationally and internationally. It also reflects the commitment of the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy, Khon Kaen University, to producing high-quality graduates who contribute to sustainable economic and social development.