The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University, led by Associate Professor Dr. Orathai Piayura, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, organised the “UKind Scholarship to the UK” programme to provide educational opportunities and international exposure for 13 undergraduate students from 13 academic programmes. The students participated in an English language and cultural learning programme at the Language Centre, University of Leeds from 27 April to 8 May 2026, over two weeks.
The programme was conducted under the academic collaboration framework established through a Memorandum of Understanding among the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Wat Buddharam Leeds, a centre for promoting Thai culture and international cultural relations, and University of Leeds, one of the world’s leading universities, ranked 86th globally by the QS World University Rankings.
The “UKind Scholarship to the UK” programme aims to attract academically outstanding, disciplined, and socially responsible students by providing them with valuable international learning opportunities. The programme also encourages students to gain international experience, exchange ideas, and adapt to multicultural settings, thereby fostering intercultural communication skills, cultural understanding, and global adaptability.
In addition, the project seeks to strengthen students’ confidence and competence in all aspects of English language communication according to international standards. Students are encouraged to apply the knowledge and experience gained from the programme to their academic studies, extracurricular activities, and future career preparation. Furthermore, the project serves as an inspiration and model for students of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in developing academic excellence, moral integrity, and social responsibility in line with the faculty’s identity and mission.
On this occasion, participating students were honoured to receive certificates of completion from Professor Emma Cayley, Head of the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at the University of Leeds, during the closing ceremony. Faculty members from the university also joined in congratulating and encouraging the students.
Moreover, the UKind students also participated in the activity titled “Exchange and Personal Development through Dharmic Principles” at Wat Buddharam Leeds in the United Kingdom. They also attended a certificate presentation ceremony held under the compassionate support of His Eminence Phra Brahmasiddhi, Abbot of Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan and member of the Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand, who graciously served as the project chairperson. Phra Khru Sirithammapratip, Abbot of Wat Buddharam Leeds, served as Chairperson for the United Kingdom operations, while Associate Professor Dr. Orathai Piayura, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University, served as Chairperson for the Thailand operations.
In this regard, Phra Dhammavajirapatibhan of Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan kindly acted as the representative in presenting certificates to the students for encouragement on their successful participation in this international learning exchange programme.
