KKU Supports Rehabilitation of Inmates, Championing Opportunities for Sustainable Social Reintegration

27 November 2025
16:59

Khon Kaen University Joins Digital Skills Development Project for Inmates and Monitors Royal Prisons Happy Programme to Create Opportunities for Stable Social Reintegration

On 26 November 2024, Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit Vice President for Legal and Communications, together with personnel from the Corporate Communications Division, participated in activities under the project to develop digital skills and establish business networks for inmates (the “Digital Skills Development Project”). This initiative operates under the ‘Kamlangjai Project’ (Inspiration Project), a royal initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, and included monitoring the progress of the Royal Prisons Happy Programme (Ratchathan Pansuk): Good Deeds for the Nation, Religion, and the Monarchy. The activities took place at Khon Kaen Central Prison, Khon Kaen Rajanagarindra Psychiatric Hospital, and Thanyarak Khon Kaen Hospital between 26 and 27 November 2024.

Air Chief Marshal Somkid Sukbang, the Grand Chamberlain to Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Krom Luang Ratchasarinee Siripatchara Maha Watchara Ratchathida, and Vice Chairman of the Kamlangjai Fund Committee, presided over the opening ceremony of the project. Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Naowarat, Minister of Justice, delivered a speech thanking the business operators who supported the programme. Mr. Prajuab Rakpaet, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province, Mr. Pairat Khamintakul, Inspector General of the Department of Corrections (Acting Commander of Khon Kaen Central Prison), and heads of government agencies welcomed the delegation during their inspection inside the prison.

Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Naowarat, Minister of Justice

This activity, organised by the Department of Corrections under the Ministry of Justice, aims to promote mental well-being and improve the quality of life for inmates and the general public. This is achieved through psychological skills development, self-rehabilitation, and preparation for stable reintegration into society. The project reflects a strong commitment to establishing the correctional system as a crucial mechanism for rehabilitating and developing individuals’ potential within the community.

Following the opening ceremony, Air Chief Marshal Somkid Sukbang and the accompanying delegation visited the vocational training, education, and female inmate sections to observe their practical work. They also visited the “Role Model Shop” and offered encouragement to the inmates, stating that the work displayed today clearly shows that “this is not the end, but a new beginning” of life. Every individual has utilised this time to develop themselves, cultivate skills, and accumulate valuable knowledge, which will serve as a secure foundation for their future.

On 27 November, Air Chief Marshal Somkid Sukbang presided over the opening ceremony of the Long-Term Care Centre for the Elderly and Dependent Individuals and toured the centre located in the prison hospital wing. Subsequently, the delegation visited the wards operating under the Royal Prisons Happy Programme at Khon Kaen Rajanagarindra Psychiatric Hospital and Thanyarak Khon Kaen Hospital.

Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit, Vice President for Legal and Communications (Standing Centre)

Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit, Vice President for Legal and Communications, stated that Khon Kaen University places great emphasis on improving the quality of life for all sectors of society, in line with the university’s mission to drive education, research, and innovation to enhance community strength and create equal opportunities for everyone. Khon Kaen University has consistently partnered with Khon Kaen Central Prison to support and organise activities.

“Our participation in the opening ceremony for the Digital Skills Development Project for inmates, the establishment of the employment network under the royal initiative, and the observance of the Royal Prisons Happy Programme, reflects the profound power of ‘giving opportunities,’ which is a vital foundation for sustainable development,” Mrs. Natsamol said.

Mrs. Natsamol further explained that digital literacy is an essential skill in modern society. When inmates are able to educate and develop themselves, and are supported to return to society with dignity, it helps reduce recidivism and fosters greater support from employers who understand the potential of this group. Consequently, this mission is one that the University fully cooperates with.

“Khon Kaen University’s involvement focuses on providing academic knowledge, scholarly services, and building networks with correctional agencies and various business partners. This is designed to create opportunities for rehabilitated inmates to develop professional skills and secure employment after release, benefiting the inmates, their families, society, and the nation. This aligns perfectly with the approach of ‘reintegrating good people into society sustainably.’ We sincerely hope that this collaboration will lead to strong and lasting development in the future,” Mrs. Natsamol concluded.