On 29 January 2026, from 09:00–12:00 hrs., Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with the Sangha and institutional partners, organised a merit-making ceremony to mark the seventh anniversary of the Royal Cremation of the Great Master Phra Thep Witthayakhom (Luang Por Koon Parisuttho). The ceremony was held at the Phra Thep Witthayakhom Luang Por Koon Parisuttho Memorial in Khon Kaen Province, acknowledging the immense contributions of the revered monk who exemplified dedication to Buddhism, education, and society. 
The ceremony was gracefully presided over by Phra Ratchaprasitthikhun (Sunan Suphacharo, P. Th. 7), Advisor to the Ecclesiastical Governor of Region 9 and Abbot of Wat Thep Buranaram, as the monastic chair. Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, served as the lay chair. They were joined by university executives, faculty members, staff, students, and devout Buddhists, creating an atmosphere of deep reverence, serenity, and spiritual faith.
The merit-making activities included the offering of noon meals (Pattaharn Phel), a Thaksinanupathan rite dedicated to Luang Por Koon, the presentation of Jatu Patchai Thai Tham (monastic necessities), and a Dharma sermon (Dharma Sammothaniya Katha). These observances were conducted in remembrance of Luang Por Koon’s enduring teaching, “Give and give forever,” and his exceptional academic generosity, particularly his selfless decision to donate his remains for medical education. This act has yielded lasting benefits for medical training and social learning in Thailand.
As a leading educational institution in the region, Khon Kaen University consistently adheres to Luang Por Koon’s philosophy and legacy. His principles of morality, ethics, and selfless dedication to the public good are integrated into the university’s missions regarding education, research, and academic services to the community. This commitment aligns directly with KKU’s strategic goal of Societal Contribution via Cultural Involvement and Community Integration, aiming to develop the university as a source of knowledge that seamlessly combines academic excellence with spiritual and moral value.
The ceremony thus served not only as a solemn tribute to a revered spiritual figure of the nation but also as a reaffirmation of Khon Kaen University’s role as an intellectual, cultural, and moral centre. Through such initiatives, KKU continues to contribute to Thailand’s sustainable development by balancing academic rigour, cultural preservation, and social consciousness.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Images: https://kku.world/owsd0w
