Khon Kaen University has kicked off an intensive training program aimed at equipping its new support staff with the essential skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the university’s pursuit of excellence. The “First Steps for New Support Staff” program, held on September 2-3, 2024, at the ASEAN Institute for Research and Development in Teacher Education, brought together 200 newly appointed employees for a comprehensive orientation designed to foster organizational values, enhance competencies, and build strong internal relationships.
The event was inaugurated by Asst. Prof. Dr. Pattarawit Polpinit, Vice President for Human Resources, who emphasized the crucial role of support staff in driving KKU’s mission forward. “Support staff are the backbone of our university, playing an indispensable role in helping us achieve our goals of producing world-class graduates, conducting impactful research, and serving society,” he stated. Dr. Pattarawit highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing its staff from the very beginning of their tenure, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of their roles and align with the university’s core values.
Day one of the program featured several key sessions, including Dr. Pattarawit’s lecture on “Strategies for Enhancing Competency and Sustaining Core Values,” which provided participants with actionable insights on how to integrate KKU’s values into their daily work. Prof. Dr. Surasak Wongratanacheewin followed with a session on “Financial Planning for Young Professionals,” offering practical advice on managing personal finances. Dr. Kitt Tientanopajai, Assistant to the President for Digital Affairs, delivered a thought-provoking talk on “Working in the Digital Age: Digital Transformation,” exploring the impact of digital technologies on the modern workplace. The day concluded with an interactive workshop titled “Empowerment and Unity at KKU,” designed to strengthen teamwork and camaraderie among the new staff.
The second day focused on work-life balance, with Asst. Prof. Dr. Anucha Somabut, Assistant to the President for Education, leading a session on “Adjusting Perspectives for a Balanced Life with SMART KKU.” The program concluded with a collaborative learning activity, allowing participants to reflect on the training and share insights.
Participants who completed the entire program received an electronic certificate of achievement, symbolizing their readiness to contribute to KKU’s mission. The “First Steps for New Support Staff” program reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to employee development and organizational excellence.
Tags: Khon Kaen University, KKU, Human Resources, Support Staff Training, Organizational Development, University Excellence, Asst. Prof. Dr. Pattarawit Polpinit