Khon Kaen University (KKU) held its August traveling university council meeting in Songkhla province. The event included knowledge-sharing activities with Prince of Songkla University (PSU) to foster academic collaboration and study visits in science and innovation, aiming to promote sustainable university development.
From August 7-8, 2068, Khon Kaen University organized its “Traveling University Council Meeting” in Songkhla province. The goal was to promote academic cooperation, exchange knowledge, and conduct study visits for sustainable university development. Prof. Snit Aksornkaew, Chairman of the Prince of Songkla University Council, welcomed the participants. Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the Khon Kaen University Council, delivered a special lecture and moderated a panel discussion in the afternoon.
On August 7, University Council Meeting No. 8/2568 was held in Sukontha Meeting Room, and the University Administrative Committee Meeting took place in Ginger Room, Centara Hotel Hat Yai. The afternoon featured a Panel Discussion for knowledge exchange with Prince of Songkla University, involving executives and academics from both institutions. Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the Khon Kaen University Council, moderated the discussion. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University, Prof. Snit Aksornkaew, Chairman of the Prince of Songkla University Council, and Asst. Prof. Niwat Keawpradub, President of Prince of Songkla University, along with other experts from both universities, participated.
On August 8, the executives and university council members visited the Science Park of Prince of Songkla University to exchange ideas on scientific, technological, and innovation development, as well as efficient management of research areas.
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of Khon Kaen University Council, stated during the Panel Discussion on knowledge exchange with Prince of Songkla University: “The South of Thailand is a region of immense diversity in natural resources, culture, and development opportunities. However, it also faces complex and unique challenges. Prince of Songkla University has long been a crucial pillar in driving this region, both in academics, innovation, and sustainable social development.
Khon Kaen University, as a university from another region of the country, recognizes the power of cooperation between institutions with similar visions and commitments. We believe that the collaboration between KKU and PSU is not merely an academic exchange but a fusion of potential to create concrete positive impacts on society. In an era where universities must be more than just educational institutions, cross-regional cooperation is a necessary new force to elevate the quality of life for people, enhance understanding of local contexts, and collectively build a better future for our country.”
At the same event, Prof. Snit Aksornkaew, Chairman of Prince of Songkla University Council, said: “National development is not the duty of one group alone; everyone must collaborate for the nation, especially in research and innovation. We must learn together. For example, our southern region has abundant resources such as jasmine rice, oil palm, and coastal resources. We must study and develop these resources sustainably.
I commend Khon Kaen University for developing knowledge from real-world areas and effectively transferring it to communities. I also appreciate the Chairman’s idea to choose PSU to exchange knowledge and initiate collaboration in four missions: research and innovation, academic services, production, and tradition preservation. I hope this meeting will be an excellent starting point, and I am confident that in the next 3-6 months, we will see more tangible results in developing the country through research and innovation, wisely utilizing local resources, and hoping for future achievements.”
The traveling university council meeting and knowledge exchange with Prince of Songkla University, including the study visit to the Science Park, promote national-level inter-university cooperation in academics, research, and management. This aligns with Khon Kaen University’s strategy of fostering internal and external collaboration for the shared goal of sustainable development.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Photos: Natthapong Chamnaneua
