On 28 February 2026, the Enterprise and Societal Sustainability Sector of Khon Kaen University, led by Professor Thidarut Boonmars, Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, and her team, convened a meeting to discuss strategies for enhancing the potential of communities in Ban Phai District.
The meeting brought together key partners, including Mr. Nattapong Deeboon, a representative from Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited, and a local civil society network represented by Mr. Sitthichok Sricho, the founder and content creator of the “Hug Ban Phai” Facebook page. The discussion was held at Ban Lang Wat Coffee, situated at Wat Buranasit Phra Chao Yai Phue Bang in Hua Nong Sub-district, Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen.
Professor Thidarut Boonmars, Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability
The primary objective was to exchange insights and assess the district’s development potential in order to establish a clear framework for supporting community product development. The partnership seeks to add value to local products while preserving community identity and traditional wisdom, ensuring they meet contemporary market demands. This will be achieved through the integration of academic expertise from the University, marketing and financial perspectives from the banking sector, and the strength of grassroots community networks.
Ban Phai District possesses significant potential in both natural resources and social capital, particularly in the vicinity of Kaeng Lawa, a vital natural reservoir in Khon Kaen Province. This area supports local fisheries, agriculture, and the creation of processed goods that reflect the community’s way of life. It also has the potential to be developed into an eco-tourism destination and a community learning centre.
This meeting represents a significant step towards building a systematic and sustainable collaboration framework aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy in a locally responsive manner. Khon Kaen University continues to act as a strategic knowledge partner in driving community-based development initiatives.
The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It reinforces Khon Kaen University’s commitment to its mission as a “University for Society,” leveraging academic expertise to generate long-term, sustainable public value.
