Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) has reaffirmed its commitment to educational development in Thailand by awarding the “SMBC Global Foundation Scholarship Program” to six Khon Kaen University (KKU) students for the year 2025. The initiative underscores SMBC’s vision to cultivate high-quality human resources for national development.

The 2025 SMBC Global Foundation Scholarship Program Awarding Ceremony took place at Khon Kaen University on September 26, 2025. The event was attended by executives from SMBC, including Mr. Norihiko Nakamura, Managing Director of the Bangkok Branch and Head of Local Business Control for the Asia Pacific Region. He was accompanied by Mr. Chatchai Phongsuwan, Head of Human Resources, and Mr. Wanchat Boonchan, Head of Human Resources Operations and Services. Deans, associate deans, distinguished guests, and KKU students also participated in the ceremony.

Assoc. Prof. Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization,  extended her gratitude to the SMBC executives for their continuous and valuable support to students. She highlighted SMBC’s foresight in recognizing education as a fundamental pillar for individual and national development. Dr. Pensri expressed KKU’s deep appreciation for SMBC’s dedication and generosity in strengthening Thai society through the power of education.

The scholarships awarded are considered a significant investment in the students’ futures, alleviating financial burdens and enabling them to fully dedicate themselves to their studies. This support aims to help students graduate as qualified professionals, capable of building stable careers and contributing significantly to the nation’s progress.

The SMBC scholarship program has a long-standing history of providing opportunities to Khon Kaen University students, with over 200 alumni having benefited from the program. This track record demonstrates the program’s success in genuinely producing skilled individuals for society.

During the ceremony, Associate Professor Dr. Pensri Charoenwanit congratulated the six scholarship recipients for this year. She encouraged them to excel in their studies, serve as positive role models, and dedicate themselves to societal development, thereby embodying SMBC’s noble intentions for the country’s future.

reported by the International Affairs Division (of Khon Kaen University)