In a bold move to drive the future of Northeast Thailand, Khon Kaen University (KKU) is leveraging decades of experience to launch its ambitious “The New Isan” initiative. As part of this effort, the KKU Council, along with the University Executive Committee, embarked on a strategic study tour from August 7-9, 2024, in Chonburi Province. Their mission: to draw valuable lessons from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and apply them to the development of the Northeastern Economic Corridor (NEC), positioning KKU as a key player in the region’s transformation.
Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of KKU, underscored the significance of this initiative, stating that the Northeast is entering a transformative era. “The New Isan” will bring about a surge in the movement of goods and people, demanding a strategic focus on products and cultural assets that embody the spirit of Isan (Made by/from Isan). “This is a unique challenge for Khon Kaen University,” Dr. Narongchai explained. “As an institution, we are not only responsible for educating future leaders but also for generating research and driving change that will shape the future of this region.”
Reflecting on Thailand’s economic history, Dr. Narongchai recalled how critical policies, such as the Eastern Seaboard (ESB) initiative launched in 1977, spurred significant growth during times of economic difficulty. “Today, the government is once again seeking innovative solutions, which led to the creation of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in 2018. Our visit here is about understanding these economic shifts and how they can inform the future of Northeast Thailand,” he added.
The study tour aimed to give KKU’s leadership a front-row view of the economic transformation underway in the Eastern region. The EEC has been a game-changer, propelling Thailand into a new era of prosperity. Dr. Narongchai envisions similar growth for the Northeast, with “The New Isan” set to become a central hub for regional economic connectivity.
Dr. Narongchai also highlighted the Northeast’s burgeoning opportunities, particularly in logistics and trade. The region’s strategic location, linked by China’s high-speed rail network extending through Laos into Northeast Thailand, positions it as a critical economic bridge between neighbouring countries like China and Vietnam. This connectivity is expected to catalyse new business ventures and create significant economic opportunities for the region’s residents, paving the way for sustainable development.
The 8th Khon Kaen University Council Meeting of 2024 not only served as a platform for exchanging ideas and crafting strategic plans to support “The New Isan,” but also featured insights from leading experts, including Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Dr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EEC Office, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Watcharin Kasalak, President of Burapha University. The council members also visited key industrial sites, including the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate, the Wangchan Valley Innovation Hub, and the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate. The knowledge and experiences gained from these visits will play a crucial role in shaping the future development of Khon Kaen University and the broader Northeast region.
Tags: Khon Kaen University, The New Isan, Northeastern Economic Corridor, Eastern Economic Corridor, Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Regional Development