Because Every Voice Matters
Students from the College of Local Administration (COLA), Khon Kaen University, working under the COLA Policy LAB in collaboration with Thai PBS Locals, joined faculty members in conducting a participatory public opinion survey. Acting as surveyors, the team carried out “market tours” at the Khon Kaen Green Market and Kangsadan Night Market, inviting local residents to transform their everyday “complaints” into policy proposals.
This participatory survey utilised policy tools developed by Thai PBS Locals, allowing citizens to select their top three priorities from a list of 20 policy issues that most closely reflect their real-life challenges. The data collected provide not only quantitative results, but also a rich reflection of public sentiment and fundamental local needs.
The survey findings will be utilised as a policy roadmap for policymakers, academics, and government organisations. This strategic resource will facilitate the design of precise, contextually appropriate measures that genuinely meet the needs of the citizens.
As of 26 January 2026, statistical data collected from 1,274 participating citizens in the Isan region revealed the following top five priorities and areas of interest:
| Priority | Percentage | Issue |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 36.2% | Fair income and comprehensive welfare coverage |
| 2 | 25.6% | Employment upon graduation and market-relevant skills |
| 3 | 25.1% | Farmer self-sufficiency and breaking agricultural monopolies |
| 4 | 24.6% | Quality local employment, reducing out-migration |
| 5 | 23.2% | Transparent and corruption-free government administration |
This report was analysed and summarised by the Collective Wisdom Laboratory team, grounded in the belief that every voice matters.
Read the full report on the Thai PBS Locals website.
