In a groundbreaking achievement that underscores its commitment to social development, Khon Kaen University has emerged as Thailand’s first higher education institution to receive the coveted Thailand Quality Class Plus: Societal Contribution award in 2024. This historic milestone not only positions KKU at the forefront of academic excellence but also recognizes its transformative impact on society.
Double Excellence: University-wide Recognition
Adding to this remarkable achievement, KKU’s Faculty of Engineering simultaneously secured the Thailand Quality Class Plus: Operation award, demonstrating the university’s comprehensive excellence from institutional to departmental levels. This dual recognition showcases KKU’s exceptional organizational management capabilities and its unwavering dedication to quality.
“This recognition reflects our position as a leading Global and Frontier Research University,” says KKU President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul. “Our consistent top ranking in Thailand for SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 2: Zero Hunger in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings demonstrates our tangible contribution to global sustainable development goals.”
KKU’s journey towards social excellence began in 2008 when it embraced its role as a “University of Social Devotion.” Now, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary under the banner “A University of Creativity and Development for Society,” KKU continues to pioneer innovative approaches to address societal challenges while maintaining international academic standards.
In recognition of their exceptional leadership, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, the President of Khon Kaen University, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ratchaphon Suntivarakorn, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, were honored with the prestigious Leadership Excellence Award. This esteemed accolade celebrates their remarkable ability to guide their institutions toward excellence. Their transformative leadership has not only elevated their respective organizations but has also set new benchmarks for academic leadership in Thailand’s higher education landscape.
National Recognition
The prestigious award will be presented by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the Aksra Theatre, King Power, Bangkok, on February 13, 2025. This recognition by the National Quality Award Office underscores KKU’s role as a beacon of excellence in higher education and its significant contributions to national development.
This achievement not only celebrates KKU’s past efforts but also sets a new benchmark for educational institutions in Thailand, reinforcing its position as a leader in combining academic excellence with meaningful societal impact.