In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, Khon Kaen University has rallied over 300 students and staff to provide much-needed relief to flood-stricken communities in Nong Khai. On September 22, 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Panthongviriyakul, Acting President of KKU, led the caravan to distribute more than 2,000 survival kits, including fresh eggs and clean drinking water, to those affected by the floods.
The KKU team made stops at three heavily impacted areas: Mueang Nong Khai District, Ban Pak Mang, Kong Nang Subdistrict, Tha Bo District, and Ban Um Yen, Nam Mong Subdistrict, Tha Bo District.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai emphasized the importance of KKU’s role in serving society:
“This mission gives KKU a chance to extend our hands to those who are suffering. It’s a combined effort from our faculties and departments, with special contributions from our Nong Khai Campus. Our 300 volunteers have brought essential supplies—clean water, dry food, over 250 trays of fresh eggs, and other necessities—to support the community. This experience also allows our students to develop social responsibility, aligning with our university’s core values of serving the public.”
Local leaders and residents expressed deep appreciation for KKU’s efforts. Mr. Supol Khankaew, Village Head of Moo 2, Kong Nang Subdistrict, shared his heartfelt thanks: “The floodwaters rose as high as 50 centimeters in some places, leaving many homes submerged for 3-5 days. Now, although the waters have receded, many families are still cleaning up. The supplies from KKU will go a long way in easing the hardship faced by our community.”
Mr. Piyawut Chantakate, District Chief of Tha Bo, added: “Although the flood situation is improving, there’s still much work to be done, particularly in repairing homes and assisting vulnerable groups. The arrival of KKU’s caravan has not only provided much-needed aid but also reassured our residents that the younger generation cares deeply about their well-being.”
The student volunteers were filled with pride and joy, knowing their efforts had made a real difference. Mr. Teeradech Phosri, a first-year student from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, reflected: “It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of this. Seeing Thais come together to help each other during a crisis is truly heartwarming.”
Ms. Thitaporn Phoophrong, a first-year student from the Faculty of Law, echoed these sentiments: “I’m happy to have been a part of something so meaningful, helping my fellow citizens in their time of need.”
This relief effort is part of Khon Kaen University’s broader mission of dedicating itself to society, in line with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation’s policies. KKU established a “Flood Relief Center” to coordinate rapid assistance and mitigate the effects of the floods. The first wave of relief was sent out on September 18, 2024, and on September 20, 2024, KKU launched a large-scale mobilization event, where more than 300 students and staff came together to prepare over 2,000 survival kits. These kits were delivered to Nong Khai on September 22, bringing hope and relief to those in need.
KKU’s dedication to service continues to inspire a new generation of compassionate leaders, reaffirming its commitment to society during times of crisis.
