On 3 July 2026, Assistant Professor Sirimonbhorn Thipsingh, Dean of the College of International at Khon Kaen University (KKU), along with the college executive committee and staff, welcomed a delegation from the United Nations Association of Thailand (UNAT). The delegation was led by Ambassador Atchara Seriputra, Vice President of UNAT, and accompanied by officials from the Department of International Organisations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and UNAT. The visit formed part of an educational outreach programme focusing on the United Nations (UN) and Thai foreign affairs, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Thailand’s UN membership. Over 300 Khon Kaen University students attended the panel discussion held in Room M301 at the College of International.
The event was a collaboration among the Department of International Organisations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United Nations Association of Thailand, and the College of International, Khon Kaen University. The initiative aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the roles of the United Nations and Thai foreign relations among university students and regional youths. The programme featured educational lectures and interactive activities conducted by seasoned diplomats and practitioners from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Atchara Seriputra, Vice President of UNAT, noted that the United Nations was established in 1945, with Thailand joining as a member state in 1946. She stated that the outreach activity was designed to familiarise students with the United Nations, helping them understand its impact on Thailand as well as the historical role Thailand has played on the global stage. Over the years, the Association has consistently conducted educational campaigns for students across various regions, including the South, the North, and the East. For the Northeastern region, Khon Kaen University was selected as the host for its continuous leadership in UN-related initiatives, particularly in disseminating knowledge on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate change issues across university communication channels. Ambassador Seriputra expressed her appreciation for KKU’s commitments and hoped that the event would inspire students to pursue careers in diplomacy.
Assistant Professor Sirimonbhorn Thipsingh, Dean of the College of International, stated:
“This event is the fruitful result of an excellent collaboration between the Department of International Organisations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United Nations Association of Thailand, and the College of International, Khon Kaen University. It demonstrates that foreign affairs are not distant matters, but rather tangible subjects that government sectors and academic institutions can co-deliver to the younger generation. Throughout the session, our students and participants gained firsthand insights from diplomats and foreign ministry practitioners, covering everything from behind-the-scenes diplomatic operations and Thailand’s roles within the UN framework to international peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development. This knowledge expands our students’ perspectives far beyond the classroom and offers a close look at career paths in foreign affairs. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all organising partners for selecting our college as the venue for this invaluable event, which serves as a sustainable starting point for cultivating global awareness among regional youth.”
Ms. Pawonprat Prathiang, a student majoring in International Affairs and Diplomacy at the College of International, shared her impression:
“I have gained a vast amount of knowledge and a clearer direction on how to advance my career path. Meeting several ambassadors and learning about the United Nations has deeply inspired me to work in the field of diplomacy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where I can experience different cultures. Today’s activities have truly ignited my passion to become a competent diplomat who can contribute to our nation in the future.”
The event featured a series of specialised lectures, including a session titled “Behind Thai Diplomacy: What Do Diplomats and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Do?” delivered by Mr. Cherdkiat Atthakor and Mr. Phot Harnpol, former Ambassadors. This was followed by a lecture on “Thailand and the United Nations” by Ms. Jamsai Menasveta, Director of the International Organisations Administration Division, and Mr. Supachai Theeramongklanon, a professional-level diplomat. A comprehensive brief on “Understanding the UN in International Peace and Security, Human Rights, and Development” was presented by Ms. Patcharamon Siriwatana, Director of the Peace, Security and Disarmament Division, Ms. Atipa Wantanapong, a professional-level diplomat (Counsellor) from the Development Affairs Division, and Ms. Aim-atsha Somsaman, a professional-level diplomat from the Social Division. The event concluded with educational trivia games on the United Nations and global affairs, followed by a souvenir presentation and a group photograph session.
