The Knowledge Management (KM) session focused on digital transformation, global competencies for staff, and enhancing student services to bolster KKU’s ‘Global Stage’ initiative.

On 23 January 2026, the International Relations Division (IRD) of Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Associate Professor Nawarat Wara-aswapati, D.D.S., D.M.Sc., Vice President for International Affairs, along with IRD executives and staff, welcomed a delegation from the Office of International Affairs, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT). The KMUTT delegation was led by Associate Professor Chawin Chansenaewong, Ph.D., Vice President for Internationalisation. The meeting took place in Kalapapruek 7 Meeting Room, Sirikunakorn Building, Khon Kaen University.

The International Relations Division organised this Knowledge Management (KM) activity with the objectives of forming collaborative networks, exchanging Best Practices in international affairs management, promoting the development of services for international students, and strengthening the network among Thailand’s leading universities in pursuit of global recognition.

Key discussion points during the knowledge exchange included:

• Digital Transformation: Both institutions discussed strategies for shifting operational processes to digital platforms, such as online visa application systems and student recruitment systems, to reduce paperwork and facilitate services for foreign nationals.
• Global Competencies: Discussions covered approaches to developing global skills for support staff, enabling them to communicate and work confidently with international stakeholders.
• Student Care & Mobility: Dialogue focused on managing housing and welfare to create an international environment conducive to student well-being.

This activity marks a significant beginning in unifying efforts between two of Thailand’s leading institutions. Despite operating in different contexts, they share the collective goal of advancing Thai higher education on the global stage. The KKU International Relations Division plans to apply the knowledge gained to further enhance its services and management efficiency.

Associate Professor Nawarat Wara-aswapati, Vice President for International Affairs at Khon Kaen University, offered her congratulations and welcome to the study tour delegation from KMUTT. She noted that the event was a crucial opportunity to enhance the capacity of international administration and present KKU’s strategy for internationalisation under the framework ‘KKU on Global Stage.’ This framework encompasses promoting international student and staff mobility, as well as expanding the global network of quality cooperation. She expressed hope that the combined efforts of both universities would lead to expanded cooperation within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and foster a more international campus environment.

The Vice President further elaborated: “This KM activity was designed to integrate strategic management, data-driven administration, and adaptation to the digital era, allowing both institutions to exchange ideas, best practices, and necessary innovations for developing international affairs work. Crucial discussion points included Digital Transformation, developing global skills for personnel, and managing welfare for international students. Collaboration between leading universities is a powerful force that will help drive Thai higher education forward on the world stage, leading to tangible cooperation outcomes.”

Associate Professor Chawin Chansenaewong, Ph.D., Vice President for Internationalisation at KMUTT, remarked on the exchange: “We shared our experience working within a flexible, data-driven organisational model, especially concerning partners and network management, to ensure that collaborative activities yield genuine results. We also discussed developing a modern, one-stop service system for international students. We intend to take the knowledge and best practices gained today back to KMUTT to further enhance our service delivery efficiency.”

This event serves as a critical starting point for mobilising the strengths of these two institutions, which, despite their varied settings, share the objective of advancing Thai higher education internationally. The KKU International Relations Division will implement the acquired knowledge to boost its service capabilities and management effectiveness in the future.