KKU International Affairs Division Integrates Cultural Insight and SDG Strategy in Bangkok Study Tour

27 February 2026
16:33

The initiative was designed to enhance staff capacity in international hospitality and to align the University’s global engagement strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The International Affairs Division of Khon Kaen University (KKU) organised a professional development study tour in Bangkok from 19–21 February 2026. The delegation was led by Assistant Professor Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Ph.D., Assistant to the President for International Affairs, and Mr Isara Suriyagul Na Ayudhaya, Acting Director of the International Affairs Division, together with divisional staff. The programme aimed to strengthen competencies in hosting international guests and to embed SDG principles into the University’s international cooperation framework.

A key highlight of the tour on the morning of Friday, 20 February 2026, was a visit to Museum Siam (the National Discovery Museum Institute). The KKU delegation explored Thai art and culture through the “Decoding Thainess” exhibition. They were warmly welcomed by Dr. Twarath Sutabutr, a member of the Khon Kaen University Council and Director of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development (OKMD) and Museum Siam, and Ms. Songthip Sermsawatśri, Director of Venue Development and Services at Museum Siam, who gave a special presentation.

The tour provided an in-depth look into the history of Thailand’s ethnic groups, the amalgamation of foreign cultural influences, and the evolution of “Thainess” across different eras. This included insights into architecture, social etiquette, beliefs, and Thai-led innovations. This learning experience is vital for the International Affairs Division staff, equipping them with a profound cultural context to accurately and impressively articulate Thai identity to diplomatic corps and international visitors at Khon Kaen University.

In the afternoon, the delegation visited the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Thailand office for a knowledge-sharing session. Mr. Kaan Ram-Indra, Head of Programme at UNDP Thailand, delivered a lecture on strategies for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The presentation outlined UNDP’s work, which focuses on three core development pillars: a green and sustainable transition, human capital enhancement, and inclusive development that leaves no one behind. Mr. Ram-Indra also introduced concepts such as Policy Innovation through the human-centred Thailand Policy Lab and the crucial mechanism of SDG Localisation, which translates global goals into practical, local-level actions.

Khon Kaen University’s Role in Driving Community-Focused SDGs

The study tour stimulated proactive discussions on integrating the SDGs into Khon Kaen University’s strategic plan. This integration complements the University’s Net Zero and Carbon Neutrality policies, as well as its ambitions within the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings framework.

One significant outcome was the articulation of KKU’s role as “Intern Doctors” within the SDG Clinic initiative, whereby the University will provide advisory support and mentorship to provinces and local administrative organisations in Northeastern Thailand. The delegation also resolved to adopt management tools utilised by UNDP Thailand—such as SDG Profiles and Open Data platforms—to minimise budgetary duplication and enhance coordination among higher education institutions, public agencies, and civil society.

The study tour from 19–21 February 2026, therefore, represents a significant step in broadening the vision of Khon Kaen University’s International Affairs Division. By linking the nation’s foundational cultural dimensions with a global vision for sustainable development, the initiative strengthens KKU’s capacity to advance its presence on the international stage with distinction.