On 9 December 2025, Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Professor Thidarut Boonmars, Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, participated in a consultative meeting to advance the establishment and operationalisation of the Khon Kaen Provincial “Ruam Suk Centre” (Centre for Shared Happiness). The meeting was held at the Ban Ped Municipal Meeting Room in Ban Ped Subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province. Representatives from various government agencies and local administrative organisations attended to exchange views and establish avenues for integrated cooperation.
The meeting was chaired by Mr. Nawin Khamwiang, Deputy Chief Executive of the Khon Kaen Provincial Administrative Organization, and Ms. Sopint Suwanhong, Khon Kaen Provincial Social Development and Human Security Officer, alongside executives from Ban Ped Municipality, the Khon Kaen Provincial Agriculture Office, and the Khon Kaen Tourism Office. Their attendance reflected a unified commitment to the integrated development of citizens’ quality of life.
Participants discussed operational guidelines under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security’s (MSDHS) “MSDHS Near You” policy, which aims to address the complex issues faced by vulnerable groups. This objective is achieved through the creation of cooperative networks involving local agencies and partners. This approach follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with local administrative organisations nationwide in October 2025, ensuring that assistance yields tangible and sustainable results.
The meeting underscored the strategic role of local academic institutions in driving social development. Khon Kaen University was identified as a core partner, contributing academic knowledge, applied research, skilled personnel, and institutional resources to support the design of evidence-based social development strategies that genuinely respond to community needs.
The “Ruam Suk Centre” programme serves as a vital mechanism under the MSDHS to support vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, the elderly, bedridden patients, and those requiring dependency care. The centre ensures these groups have access to rehabilitation services, welfare support, and opportunities for employment within their communities, leading to sustainable improvements in their livelihoods.
During the consultation, Ban Ped Municipality was designated as the pilot area for developing a model, comprehensive Ruam Suk Centre. Khon Kaen University committed to providing full support across its capabilities, including academic expertise, activity design, and coordination with network partners, to ensure that the drive for social development achieves measurable and sustainable long-term outcomes.
