Khon Kaen, Thailand – H.E. Mark Gooding OBE, the British Ambassador to Thailand, visited Khon Kaen University (KKU) on October 1, 2025, accompanied by delegates from the British Embassy and the British Council. The visit aimed to strengthen ties between the United Kingdom and Thailand, particularly in education, science, research, innovation, and international relations, coinciding with the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
During his visit, Ambassador Gooding delivered a special lecture titled “The Relationship between Thailand and the United Kingdom” at KKU’s International College. He emphasized the robust cooperation across various dimensions, including education, culture, science, innovation, and climate change. The Ambassador highlighted the significant number of Thai students pursuing studies in the UK annually and the continuous exchange of knowledge between researchers and academics from both countries, underscoring these connections as a foundation for sustainable human resource development and long-term collaboration.
Asst. Prof. Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Ph.D., Assistant to the President for International Affairs, expressed KKU’s honor in hosting the Ambassador and his delegation. She reiterated the university’s commitment to fostering cooperation, especially in education, science, research, and innovation, to provide enhanced educational and exchange opportunities for students and staff.
Asst. Prof. Sirimonbhorn Thipsingh, Dean of the International College, also welcomed the Ambassador, noting the enduring friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Thailand and the UK over 170 years. She expressed confidence that the lecture would broaden students’ perspectives on international relations and reinforce the college’s role as a truly international academic institution. The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing participants to discuss international relations, the role of youth, and future cooperation opportunities.
Following the lecture, Ambassador Gooding and his delegation visited the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at KKU. They engaged in a cultural exchange focused on traditional music, culture, and performing arts of Thailand’s northeastern (Isaan) region. Assoc. Prof. Burin Plengdeesakul, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty, along with faculty members, warmly welcomed the guests and showcased Isaan cultural heritage, including traditional music performances and demonstrations of instruments like the Khaen and the Pong Lang Sin Sai ensemble, which captivated the Ambassador.
Ambassador Gooding actively participated, playing the Khaen and exchanging cultural experiences with the faculty and performers from the “Sin Sai KKU” Pong Lang band. The atmosphere was described as joyful, reflecting the beauty of the local Isaan cultural heritage.
The Ambassador’s visit concluded with a tour of the Khon Kaen University Museum and Lifelong Learning Center.
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