Khon Kaen University Radio Station focuses on developing its network of radio announcers, ensuring they keep pace with the digital age, while adhering strictly to the ethos of “ethics and factual reporting” as an institutional and public service broadcaster.
Amidst the disruptive changes (Disruption) facing the media industry, where audiences increasingly consume content via digital platforms, many traditional radio stations have been forced to undergo difficult adjustments or even close down. However, Khon Kaen University (KKU) Radio Station has stood firm for over 52 years, powered by a strong network and continuous development.
The motto “Station of knowledge, news, and public service” serves as the guiding compass for KKU Radio Station. This institutional broadcaster is committed to serving the community and society as a public radio outlet, aligning with Khon Kaen University’s mission to disseminate knowledge to the public. A key factor enabling the station to maintain its effective role is the collective strength of its diverse network of announcers, comprising faculty members, staff, students, and external experts. This diversity is a crucial strength, allowing the station to present comprehensive content that meets the varied needs of its listeners.
The “Project for Developing Khon Kaen University Radio Station’s Announcer Network for Fiscal Year 2026”, organised by the Radio Unit, Division of Corporate Communications, Khon Kaen University, was thus established to enhance the knowledge, skills, and experience of the announcers. It aims to improve the quality of broadcasting to a professional standard and provide essential upskilling and reskilling to continuously develop KKU Radio Station’s announcer network. This activity focused on cultivating diverse skills, including vocal techniques, engaging and quality scriptwriting, and the utilization of modern technology to elevate broadcast standards, making programmes more contemporary and appealing to listeners.
Activity 1 took place on 22 January 2026 and involved a study visit to observe radio and television production processes at the Regional Television Administration Division in the Northeast, Khon Kaen Province, under Public Relations Office 1. This was followed by Activity 2, a network seminar for radio announcers held under the topic, “Producing Engaging Radio Programmes in the Modern Era,” at Baan Phasukh, Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen Province, between 23–24 January 2026.
Presentations during the seminar included “Modern Radio and Media Change,” “Content Creation: What Makes Content Stand Out?”, and “Speaking and Presentation Skills: How to Achieve Engagement & Interaction,” delivered by Mr. Paphinphit Puasophit, Director of the Regional Television Administration Division in the Northeast, Khon Kaen Province, Public Relations Office 1.Official Remarks
Mr. Chumporn Para, Director of the Division of Corporate Communications and Director of KKU Radio Station, stated that in line with Khon Kaen University’s official policy for the 2026–2029 administrative period—which integrates ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles with the development of a Smart Campus—the Division of Corporate Communications, as the main unit responsible for Strategic Issue 6 (Beyond Good Governance and Societal Leadership), places great importance on communications that are based on trust, transparency, and the tangible creation of benefits for the community and society.
He emphasised that Khon Kaen University Radio Station, broadcasting on F.M. 103 MHz., serves as a vital ‘voice’ transmitting knowledge, academic services, and information to the public under the slogan, “Station of knowledge, news, and public service.” In an era where digital technology rapidly changes media consumption behaviour, “the challenge for radio announcers” is not merely presenting information, but adapting to technology, maintaining professional ethics, and creating content that resonates deeply with a broad audience.
Miss Chutinan Phanjung, Head of the Radio Unit, Division of Corporate Communications, KKU, stated that Khon Kaen University Radio Station operates under a Type 1 public service broadcasting license from the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The station holds the responsibility of managing broadcasting operations on the F.M. 103 MHz. frequency.
She noted that the project to develop the announcer network, particularly the study visit at the Regional Television Administration Division, Khon Kaen, under the “Announcer Network Potential Development Project,” allowed network members, both internal and external, to gain comprehensive, practical knowledge and experience. Observing radio and television production processes and exchanging knowledge on information presentation techniques provided valuable insights into broadcast techniques, content management, and creative programme formats designed to reach target audiences.
“This precious knowledge can be applied to elevate Khon Kaen University’s programme production standards, making them more engaging, contemporary, and socially responsible,” Miss Chutinan concluded.
Network Announcers Share Experiences
Mr. Jitti Kitphongpraphan, Announcer for Pood Ja Pha Sa Thai Ban (Speaking the Local Isan Way) from the Khon Kaen University Research Institute for Social Development (KKU RSDI), shared his pleasure at having the opportunity to collaborate with KKU Radio Station. He expressed gratitude that the station has “opened up space” for KKU RSDI to communicate research outcomes from field work conducted with local communities, sharing these findings widely with the public.
Acting Sub Lieutenant Chanya Sornpanya, Announcer for Sama Thi Puea Jai Pen Suk (Meditation for a Happy Mind) from the Wilaiyaliang Institute of Psychic Power, Branch 78, KKU, offered her sincere thanks to the KKU Radio Station for providing an opportunity for the institute to use this platform to disseminate the teachings of Buddhism by Somdet Phra Yannawachirodom (Luang Por Viriyang Sirintharo) to people of all ages, genders, and professions.
She explained that the programme aims to build spiritual power, offer encouragement, and foster reason, responsibility, and compassion. Those who practice meditation gain benefits for both the body and mind, meaning the audience gains substantial value, confirming the station’s role as a true public service broadcaster.
Ms. Natthaya Supatheera, Announcer for Jit Asa Cheewa Silpa (Bio-Art Volunteer) from the KKU Bio-Art Volunteer Network Group, noted that hosting the Jit Asa Cheewa Silpa programme on FM 103 MHz. serves as a crucial ‘voice.’ It helps publicise and invite parents or students interested in becoming “volunteers” to participate in social benefit activities, primarily offering encouragement to children or bedridden patients in hospitals to enhance their “spiritual strength.” Additionally, the programme helps promote the positive activities of the Bio-Art Volunteer Network Group, raising public awareness and understanding.
Media Expert Perspective
Mr. Paphinphit Puasophit, Director of the Regional Television Administration Division in the Northeast, Khon Kaen Province, Public Relations Office 1, acknowledged that “radio broadcasting” has long been a companion to the Thai people.
“Initially, it was a one-way communication channel, then it entered the golden age where two-way communication flourished. Listeners could participate, for instance, by calling in to request songs or share opinions on issues. This was truly the ‘golden age’ for announcers. Now, amidst the digital era, the media has developed modern broadcasting formats with diverse platforms. Conversely, in this era, the question is often heard: ‘Does anyone still listen to the radio today?’ The reality is that ‘radio will never die out of Thai society,’ because many people still follow news and information via radio, particularly while driving. However, radio must keep pace with technology to learn and develop programmes that capture public interest and deliver greater public benefit,” said Mr. Puasophit.
He further stressed that announcers should prioritize “ethics” and “factual reporting” above all—even over listenership figures. Consistent investment in human resource potential, such as this project, is thus the key factor enabling Khon Kaen University Radio Station to sustain its existence and create lasting social value amid the current stream of changes in the global media landscape.
Image: Kittiphan Thuringwong / Paphot Phantaek / Suriya Lee Promma
Report: Banjong Satesawisai
