On 10 February 2026, Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Professor Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, participated in the opening ceremony of the project titled “Enhancing Financial Literacy, Savings, and Access to Disability Rights and Welfare.”

The initiative forms part of the collaborative effort to establish and operationalise the ‘Ruam Suk Centre’ (Centre for Shared Happiness), aiming to translate university knowledge into tangible societal impact.

The ceremony was presided over by Ms. Chuan Chom Chanthawong, Inspector General of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), who presided over the event. Ms. Sophin Suwannahong, Khon Kaen Provincial Social Development and Human Security Officer, reported on the project’s objectives. Executives from the MSDHS units in Khon Kaen Province, the Mayor of Ban Ped Municipality, and representatives from Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited were also in attendance. 

This project directly addresses Thailand’s transition into a complete aged society and aligns with the national policy initiative “MSDHS Near You: Reduce Expenses, Generate Income, Restart Life,” spearheaded by Mr. Akara Phromphao, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. The policy emphasises strengthening financial stability and improving quality of life at the local level through integrated, cross-sector collaboration.

The target participants for this activity included 60 individuals, comprising personal assistants for persons with disabilities, caregivers, and social development and human security volunteers (SDHSVs). Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited provided expert speakers who delivered sessions on debt management, savings, raising awareness of online scam dangers, and strategies for preventing and responding to cyber threats in the digital era.