Khon Kaen University organises the “Tourist Police Youth Ambassador and Cyber Safety” project to equip student mentors with essential surveillance and life-saving skills for the protection of incoming freshmen.
Khon Kaen University (KKU) has acted on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT) and the Tourist Police Bureau. By launching the “Tourist Police Youth Ambassador and Cyber Safety” project, the University aims to develop the potential of student leaders—who serve as mentors for new students—into an active surveillance network. This initiative provides participants with vital knowledge in cybersecurity and emergency life-saving techniques, preparing them to guide freshmen and contribute to the national mission of promoting safe tourism.
The launch took place on 8 May 2026 at Khon Kaen University, organised by the Student Development and Alumni Relations Division. Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialisation, presided over the opening ceremony. The project gives practical expression to the national cooperation between academic institutions and law enforcement, ensuring a secure environment for young people.
Associate Professor Jaroenwanit emphasised that this project represents a concrete operational drive of the MOU. She noted the strategic importance of training student leaders who will act as “big brothers and sisters” for the upcoming academic year. “Equipping our student leaders with these tools is paramount,” she stated. “By mastering cyber-threat prevention and basic life-support skills, they can closely supervise and advise the new students entering our gates. This ‘Peer-to-Peer’ surveillance mechanism is incredibly powerful because freshmen often trust and rely on their seniors. This training ensures that the guidance provided is accurate, effective, and leads to a safer university experience.”
A highlight of the programme was a keynote address by Police Major General Kris Warit, Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. Speaking on “Youth Power and Building Confidence in Tourism,” he highlighted that students serve as “Cultural Ambassadors” capable of creating a positive first impression for visitors. He remarked, “The safety of tourists is the heart of attracting return visits. The energy of the new generation, who understand both technology and local culture, is a vital force in building a safe and modern tourism image for Thailand.”
The comprehensive training session featured expert speakers from various partner organisations, including:
- “The Role of Tourist Police Youth Ambassadors” by Pol. Sen. Sgt. Maj. Anuwat Inplat from Khon Kaen Tourist Police Station 1, who detailed the mission of the tourist police and how students can collaborate.
- “Staying Ahead of Scammers” by Pol. Lt. Col. Arnon In-fong from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), featuring real-world case studies and workshops on preventing online threats prevalent among teenagers.
- “The Guardian’s Skill: Life-Saving Techniques” conducted by a medical team from Bangkok Hospital Khon Kaen, providing hands-on training in CPR and the correct use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED).
The “Tourist Police Youth Ambassador and Cyber Safety” project transcends traditional training; it is the cultivation of leaders ready to disseminate knowledge to their peers. This initiative reflects Khon Kaen University’s commitment to student development and social responsibility, strengthening safety across the campus community while contributing to the sustainable and safe development of Thailand’s tourism sector.
