The landmark agreement with the Academy of Public Policy and Governance marks a significant milestone during the official state visit celebrating the 50th anniversary of Thailand–Vietnam diplomatic relations.
Khon Kaen University has established a historic milestone in international collaboration after being selected to participate in an official educational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) exchange ceremony with the Academy of Public Policy and Governance (APAG) of Vietnam. The prestigious ceremony was witnessed by the top leaders of both Thailand and Vietnam, held in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Thailand–Vietnam diplomatic relations.
The exchange ceremony took place on 28 May 2026 at the Santi Maitri Throne Hall, Government House. Khon Kaen University was led by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, who participated in the exchange with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ba Chien, President of APAG. The event was highly honoured by the presence of Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, and Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, alongside cabinet ministers from both nations, marking a momentous step forward for regional educational cooperation.
The university delegation accompanying the President included key institutional executives: Asst. Prof. Sirisak Laochankham, Ph.D.,Dean of the College of Local Administration; Assoc. Prof. Suthin Wianwiwat, Ph.D.,Dean of the Faculty of Economics; Asst. Prof. Suntaree Buchitchon, Ph.D.,Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies; and Dr. Sakchai Jarernsiripornkul, Dean of the College of Graduate Study in Management.
Khon Kaen University held the unique distinction of being the sole Thai university, and one of only four pivotal collaborations, selected by the Vietnamese government for signing during this auspicious occasion. The ceremony coincided with the first official state visit of the Vietnamese top leader since assuming office, choosing Thailand as his first official destination within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
This historic partnership builds upon a continuous academic network previously established between the College of Local Administration at Khon Kaen University and APAG, which has encompassed academic exchanges, joint research, scholar mobility, and the formation of public administration networks across ASEAN.
Following this formal exchange, both institutions have outlined concrete action plans. These initiatives include co-hosting the 2nd International Conference on Public Affairs in Khon Kaen from 19–20 November 2026, participating in the National Public Administration Conference in Hanoi in October 2026, and facilitating exchange programmes for faculty members, researchers, and students. Furthermore, both institutions will undertake collaborative research on public administration reform and other strategic bilateral issues between Thailand and Vietnam.
Beyond the immediate scope, this agreement provides a strategic framework for all faculties and colleges across Khon Kaen University to expand their academic collaborations with APAG in the future, collectively elevating educational standards, research capacities, and human resource development within the region.
This landmark collaboration underscores the growing international prominence of Khon Kaen University and reinforces its strategic educational partnership with Vietnam—a nation undergoing rapid economic growth and development. This partnership is poised to drive progress, stability, and sustainable development across the Greater Mekong Subregion.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Information/Photos: College of Local Administration
