Khon Kaen University (KKU) has launched the "Jam Mai Jang Film Festi-ver" to promote Soft Power through the creative media talents of its students.

Khon Kaen University (KKU) has launched the “Jam Mai Jang Film Festi-ver” to promote Soft Power through the creative media talents of its students.

5 May 2026
14:08

Khon Kaen University, specifically the International College (KKUIC) and its Creative Media Technology (CMT) programme, held a press conference to launch the “Jam Mai Jang Film Festi-ver” creative media festival on 5 May 2026 [original reads: May 5, 2069 — year is incorrect], from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, at Room M301, 3rd Floor, Integrated Learning and Skills Development Building, Khon Kaen University. A large number of faculty members, students, and media representatives attended the event.

The press conference followed its official schedule, starting with registration, an introductory VTR about the project, and a welcome speech and opening remarks by Dr. Wei Yang, representative of the Dean of the International College. The event concluded with a group photo.

Assistant Professor Dr. Pitipong Pimpiset, Chair of the Communication Arts programme at the International College, stated during the press conference that this project is conducted under the course IC224761 Seminar in Creative Media Technology. “This festival prioritises the quality of creative works, especially short films and digital media, which must reflect the memories of Khon Kaen in a multifaceted way. The competition is not just about finding winners; it is a qualitative selection process by experts to elevate the standards of creative media. Simultaneously, it serves as an intensive practical training ground for students to gain real-world experience, which is invaluable.”

Ms. Pongpaka Teebuabarn, representative of the Treasury Museum, Khon Kaen Province, commented, “The Treasury Museum is a space that tells stories of the past, both in terms of currency and the economic history of Khon Kaen, which aligns with the festival’s concept of ‘Unfading Memories.’ Integrating these historical narratives with students’ digital media will help convey these memories to the public vividly. We are pleased to open our space for public participation in activities between May 8-10.”

Ms. Nattida Kiartdamroengngam, a fourth-year Communication Arts (CMT) student at KKUIC and Project President, explained that “‘Jam Mai Jang’ reflects our intention to record the stories and charm of Khon Kaen City, ensuring they endure. This festival is the result of the collaboration of 56 students who wish to use modern media as a bridge connecting memories between older and younger generations. This endeavour not only produces creative works but also provides practical experience in management, communication, and event organisation, which is a significant step before entering the professional world.”

The “Jam Mai Jang Film Festi-ver” will be held from 8–10 May 2026 [original reads: May 8-10, 2069 — year is incorrect], at the Khon Kaen Treasury Museum. It is organised under the concept of “Unfading Memories of Khon Kaen,” aiming to use contemporary art media as a tool to convey local identity, reflect people’s stories, and creatively connect the past to present society. This aligns with Khon Kaen University’s strategies for Transform Education and Creative Economy, which focus on student development while creating value for society and driving Soft Power at the local level.

A key highlight of the event is its role as a “Learning by Doing” platform, offering fourth-year CMT students the opportunity to fully organise the event themselves, from planning and management to corporate communication. This reflects their academic and professional potential in the modern media industry.

The festival includes key activities such as short film and photography competitions and screenings, multimedia exhibitions (e.g., short film screening rooms and the “Black Room”), as well as creative workshops connecting local entrepreneurs to create added value in the creative economy.

Furthermore, this festival aims to elevate the university to a “Creative University” and play a role in creating a “Creative Ecosystem” in Khon Kaen Province. It opens up spaces for youth, artists, and the general public to participate in telling the city’s story through new perspectives and to foster a network of future creatives, ultimately pushing Khon Kaen to become a regional hub for creative media.