KKU Preserves Thai Tradition “Bun Duan Ha”, welcomes International Students to Experience the Charm of Isan Songkran Festival

17 April 2026
11:12

On April 8, 2026, Khon Kaen University (KKU) hosted the grand annual cultural event “Bun Duan Ha: Buddha Procession and Senior Blessing Ceremony” to preserve the traditional Heet 12, Khong 14 customs of Isan, or the Songkran Festival. The ceremony was led by Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the Khon Kaen University Council, and Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University. The event featured sacred Buddha bathing rituals and the traditional ceremony of paying respect to elders.
The celebration brought together university administrators, faculty members, staff, Mor Lam artists, Thai and international students from various faculties, and members of the local community and the public. Participants dressed in traditional Thai attire and floral shirts, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere at the Cultural Courtyard by Si Than Lake.

This year, international students from the “Chit Chat in KKU Workplace” program, organized by the International Affairs Division, joined the event, gaining valuable cultural experience beyond the classroom. Each participant shared unique impressions of the celebration.

Mr. Michael Deither Agdippa, a veterinary student from the Philippines attending the event for the first time, expressed his excitement: “This is my first time attending such a grand celebration. I feel truly amazed and grateful to experience something so special that happens only once a year, especially here at KKU. I was particularly impressed by the procession; it clearly shows how rich and vibrant Thai culture is. And of course, I really enjoyed the wide variety of free food available. It was a wonderful day for me.”

Ms. Eka Deandra Rahayu, a medical student from Indonesia who attended the event for the second year, reflected on the cultural differences: “The atmosphere in Khon Kaen is very cultural, which is completely different from what I experienced in Bangkok, where it felt more like a party with many foreigners. Here, I was impressed by the gentleness and friendliness of people, especially when someone gently applied white powder on my cheek. The most beautiful moment was seeing people gather together, although we didn’t know each other, we could still enjoy the celebration warmly and harmoniously.”

Ms. Tin Htet Htet Lwin, a student from Myanmar at the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy (KKBS), shared her emotional connection to the elder-blessing tradition:
“The procession this year was magnificent and beautiful. I could truly see the richness of Thai culture. What touched me most was the opportunity to respectfully pour water on the hands of elders and ask for blessings. It was such a sincere and meaningful activity. We have similar traditions in Myanmar, but experiencing this at KKU for the second year makes me feel that this is one of the best experiences for both my present and future.”
Another participant, Ms. Yi Mon Han (Ju Ju), a master’s student from Myanmar, shared with a smile: “Songkran is my favorite Thai festival. I love the dancing, music, and traditional clothing. Today, I was very happy to see everyone wearing colorful, floral shirts; it was a lively, joyful scene. I was also impressed to see people of all ages, from children to the elderly, coming together warmly. It’s a beautiful cultural image that I will never forget.”

Ms. Adiba Tsalsabilla (Chacha), a student from Indonesia, spoke about her experience wearing a floral Songkran shirt for the first time:
“I was so amazed because I had never worn something like this before. When I put it on, I thought, ‘Wow, it’s so cool!’ Everyone looked happy, beautiful, and handsome at the same time. Besides the beautiful parade and decorations, I also enjoyed a lot of delicious food. Anyone who misses this next year will definitely regret it!”

Netdao Chamroendararasmee, International Relations Officer, and Senior Project Coordinator of the “Chit Chat in KKU Workplace” program, shared insights on encouraging international students to participate in university activities: “This program aims to create a mutually beneficial space for both KKU staff and international students. We have clearly observed significant improvement in their English communication skills and increased confidence in using English in the workplace. Today’s Bun Duan Ha celebration (Songkran Festival) is a strong reflection that confidence in communication truly leads to borderless friendships.

“For international students, we do not see them as just coming here to study. We want them to feel welcome and truly at home. By engaging with staff from various departments, students can meet new people, become familiar with the workplace, and build meaningful connections. Eventually, they begin to feel genuinely part of the Khon Kaen University family.

“This is the core of our internationalization strategy, which we will continue to drive forward, positioning KKU as a learning space for global citizens. Lastly, I would like to invite everyone to join the Chit Chat program and create meaningful experiences together with us at KKU in future activities.”

The participation of these five international students from the Philippines, Myanmar, and Indonesia highlights that university life extends beyond academic learning. It is about embracing cultural diversity through real experiences—whether through traditional rituals, festive attire, or simple gestures like sharing smiles. These moments become unforgettable lessons in friendship and intercultural understanding.

The event not only preserves Isan traditions but also serves as a powerful platform for cross-cultural exchange. It aligns with Khon Kaen University’s strategic vision (2026–2029) to enhance internationalization and develop students into global citizens through meaningful cultural engagement.