On 5 November 2025 at 13:30 hrs., Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by Asst. Prof. Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Ph.D., Assistant to the President for International Affairs, and Ms. Issara Suriyakul Na Ayutthaya, Acting Director of the International Affairs Division, together with the management of the Faculty of Science, welcomed a delegation from National Pingtung University (NPTU), Taiwan.
The KKU welcoming team included Asst. Prof. Angkana Boonyued, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Science; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khatcharin Siriwong, Associate Dean for Administration; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pimwadee Pornpongrungrueng, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Dr. Sukhum Ruangchai, Assistant Dean for International Affairs and Public Communication; Associate Professor Poonsuk Phu-simma, Ph.D., Head of the Department of Chemistry; Associate Professor Ratchadaporn Benjawatnanon, Ph.D., Head of the Integrated Science Programme; and Assistant Professor Chusak Phoonsawat, Ph.D., lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, alongside other faculty staff.
The NPTU delegation was led by Professor Dr. Kelvin H.C. Chen, Dean of the Office of International Affairs; Professor Dr. Yao-Sheng Liao, Dean of the Department of Commerce Automation & Management; and Associate Professor Jong-Chin Huang, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs. The purpose of their visit was to tour Khon Kaen University and hold discussions concerning academic collaboration. The meeting took place at Witthayawipas Room 2, 2nd Floor, Witthayawipas Building, Faculty of Science.
The discussions focused on strengthening academic cooperation, including student exchange through the Cooperative Education programme, joint research development, and future dual-degree programmes. The two institutions also discussed the INTENSE (International Industrial Talents Education Special Programme), a strategic initiative supported by the Ministry of Education of Taiwan. The Faculty of Science is currently preparing to initiate this project with leading Taiwanese institutions, including National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU).
Following the consultation, Mr. Rueangchai, Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communications, led the NPTU delegation on a tour of the Scientific Instrument Laboratory, which employs internationally recognised service standards. He also provided introductory information about the Faculty of Science’s facilities, including lecture halls and buildings, to support NPTU’s consideration of future student exchange opportunities.
In the evening of the same day, Dr. Sukhum Ruangchai guided the delegation through the “Sithan International Festival 2025” at Bueng Sithan, Khon Kaen University. The guests experienced the atmosphere and cultural traditions of the Northeast region and viewed processions presented by student representatives from various faculties. The visit left a strong impression on the delegation.
This visit and engagement with a collaborative partner reflect the Faculty of Science’s commitment to advancing internationalisation through academic exchange, joint research, and student mobility. Such cooperation will help enhance educational quality, expand research outcomes, and develop students who will serve as key contributors to the nation’s future, supporting long-term societal and national needs.
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