Khon Kaen, Thailand – Associate Professor Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University (KKU), led a delegation of university executives and staff to attend the funeral rites for Mr. Heng Thongtaengthai, father of Mr. Prasit Thongtaengthai, the Mayor of Khon Kaen City. The ceremony took place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM, at Theppratanporn Stone Mill in Na Fai Subdistrict, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen Province.

The university’s participation underscored the strong relationship between Khon Kaen University and the Khon Kaen City Municipality, particularly through Mayor Prasit Thongtaengthai, who has been a significant benefactor to the university.

Among the KKU representatives joining President Charnchai were Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit, Vice President for Legal and Corporate Communications; Associate Professor Dr. Sirapat Chiewchanwattana, Dean of the College of Computing; and Ms. Sunipa Sawai-ngoen, Director of the Office of the President, along with other administrators, faculty members, and personnel.

Mr. Heng Thongtaengthai was widely known in Khon Kaen Province as the “Saint of the Mountains” due to his compassionate nature and extensive philanthropic work within the community. He was also a prominent figure in the business sector, owning the Theppratanporn Stone Mill.

His son, Mayor Prasit Thongtaengthai, has played a crucial role in the political landscape of Khon Kaen. Since assuming the mayoral position, he has consistently collaborated with Khon Kaen University on various important projects and activities. These include the Khon Kaen Smart City partnership, the joint development of Smart Poles, and the recent KKUDS EXPO 2025, where Mayor Prasit delivered the opening address. His contributions have been invaluable to the university.