On 26 February 2026, Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with Phu Pha Man Municipality, held a knowledge transfer workshop for the community. The workshop was part of a broader project focused on developing community products and identity media to enhance the local economy and society through tourism in Phu Pha Man District, Khon Kaen. The event took place at Wat Chaliang Thong in Ban Soeng Nuea, Non Khom Sub-district, and was formally opened by Mr. Chaiya Ruangcharoen, Mayor of Phu Pha Man Municipality, who presided over the ceremony.
Khon Kaen University’s involvement was led by Assistant Professor Kham Jaturongkakul from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, who served as the main instructor. He was joined by a team of academics and staff from the Division of Enterprise and Societal Sustainability. Together, they provided hands-on training in product design and development to local professional groups and community enterprises. The workshop aimed to empower community members to create unique products that reflect the distinct identity of Phu Pha Man and meet the demands of the modern market.
The initiative also saw participation from Krungthai Bank, represented by Mr. Natthapong Deeboon, Head of Marketing Activation, who attended to explore opportunities for extending the project’s long-term sustainability. This highlights the powerful collaboration between academia, local government, and the private sector in driving the grassroots economy.
The workshop focused on adding value to local products through creative design. Participants worked on developing over 30 types of items, including woven handicrafts and souvenirs inspired by the iconic “Phu Pha Man Bats,” embroidered cotton clothing, and products made from upcycled materials. In parallel, the training covered essential skills in marketing, branding, and communicating community identity. The goal is to strengthen their competitive edge and develop robust OTOP (One Tambon One Product) items, leading to the secure and sustainable growth of community enterprises.
This project exemplifies Khon Kaen University’s role as a source of knowledge working alongside communities. It integrates cooperation between the public sector, the financial sector, and local citizens to elevate the grassroots economy while preserving local identity. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), all of which aim to build self-reliant, resilient communities that can achieve quality growth founded on their proud local heritage.
Source/Photos: Division of Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, Khon Kaen University
ภาพ/ข่าว : ฝ่ายวิสาหกิจและสังคมยั่งยืน มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น
