KKU Class 13 Reunites for the “6th KKU13 Reunion 2026,” Celebrating 50th Anniversary and Donating Scholarships to Uphold the Spirit of the University

30 January 2026
17:41

Alumni from six founding faculties strengthen their 50-year bond and contribute significantly to educational advancement at Khon Kaen University.

On Sunday, 25 January 2026, in Khon Kaen Province, 220 alumni from Khon Kaen University’s 13th Class (KKU13)—representing the six founding faculties: Agriculture (AG13), Engineering (EN13), Education (ED8), Nursing (NU6), Science and Liberal Arts (SC4 & ART2), and Medicine (MED4)—gathered for the “6th KKU13 Reunion 2026” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their class cohort.

The Faculty of Medicine alumni hosted this year’s gathering under the theme, “50 Years of Friendship: The Bond of Modindaeng 13.” The Class 13 cohort is uniquely known within Khon Kaen University for its consistency in organising this joint reunion across all six original faculties for the sixth time, demonstrating the strong unity, friendship, and affection shared amongst their peers.

The event was structured in two main segments. The morning session, from 10:00–11:30 hrs., comprised a merit-making ceremony (Tumbun Uthit Suan Kusol) dedicated to 215 late lecturers and 91 departed classmates at Wat Pa Mahawanaram, Sila Sub-district, Khon Kaen. Concurrently, a collective Pha Pa offering rally (donation drive for temple funds) was held by the Class 13 alumni, culminating in a total donation of 53,500 Baht to the temple.

The evening session, held from 17:30–23:00 hrs. at the Rachawadee Resort and Hotel, featured creative activities and a social gathering. The event was honoured by the presence of Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, who delivered the opening speech. The President formally accepted a scholarship donation of 100,000 Baht, dedicated to supporting the university’s educational programmes and fostering future student development.

Members of the KKU 13th Class began their studies when the university consisted of only six faculties and enrolled approximately 800 first-year students. The cohort shares a profound historical bond rooted in events that occurred on 12 June 1976. On the day new students arrived at Khon Kaen Railway Station, an explosion took place, resulting in the deaths of two senior students and injuries to many others. This shared experience deeply shaped the relationships within the cohort and forged a lasting sense of solidarity.

Following graduation, the Class 13 alumni resolved to preserve their connection through regular reunions, beginning with the first KKU13 Reunion in March 2016. Hosting responsibilities rotate every two years according to the chronological establishment of the faculties. Beyond celebrating memories and lifelong friendships, the reunion also underscores the alumni community’s strong commitment to giving back to their alma mater and society.

This engagement directly supports Khon Kaen University’s strategic development in enhancing Alumni Engagement and Partnerships, which seeks to leverage alumni support for educational enhancement, human resource capacity building, and institutional sustainability. The Faculty of Agriculture has been confirmed as the host for the 7th reunion.

Furthermore, the scholarship donations and merit-making activities align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Quality Education (SDG 4) through expanded educational opportunities, and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), highlighting the collaborative strength between the University, its alumni, and society in fostering a resilient and value-driven education system.