On July 19–20, 2025, the International Affairs Division of Khon Kaen University, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs, organized the KKU Global Leadership and Collaborative Camp 2025. The event was officially opened by Dr. Acharawan. Over 40 Thai and international students at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels participated in the event, held at Meeting Room M301, Academic Center and Fundamental Skills Building, Khon Kaen University.
The camp aimed to equip students and graduates with practical leadership competencies for the international workforce. It provided a platform to strengthen global competencies, develop soft and future skills, enhance English language abilities, and raise awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The camp also contributed to fostering an international atmosphere on campus, inspiring participants to apply their newfound skills in real-world situations.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs stated that “This camp is a part of the Global Competency Program project initiated by the International Affairs Division . This year’s camp was designed as an intensive two-day program featuring engaging topics such as Exploring Leadership Styles on Mental Health and Well-Being Awareness, Global Leadership Skills for a Diverse World, Walk Rally, and Pitch Presentations. We also integrated SDG awareness throughout the activities.”
Day 1 (July 19): Students engaged in fun and reflective activities that explored diverse leadership perspectives. The keynote speaker was Mr. Komson Techamaitrechit, Professional Learning Facilitator and Executive Coach.
Day 2 (July 20): A Walk Rally encouraged hands-on teamwork and idea generation, while promoting SDG awareness through various activity stations such as Social Design and Pitch Presentations. This year’s focus was on: SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The sessions were facilitated by Dr. Attapol Attanak and Mr. Attawit Buahong, lecturers at the KKU Language Institute.
Day 2 (July 20): A Walk Rally encouraged hands-on teamwork and idea generation, while promoting SDG awareness through various activity stations such as Social Design and Pitch Presentations. This year’s focus was on: SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The sessions were facilitated by Dr. Attapol Attanak and Mr. Attawit Buahong, lecturers at the KKU Language Institute.
Mr. Thanabodi Saisin (Arnon), a fourth-year student from the Faculty of Economics, revealed “KKU Global Leadership and Collaborative Camp was a transformative experience. It helped me understand myself better and reflect on who I am. Small things can have great meaning when viewed from different perspectives. I especially enjoyed the ‘Heart Sticker Sharing’ activity, which gave us the opportunity to express appreciation for our peers.” His personal growth journey resonated with many other participants, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding among the camp’s community.
“I’ve learned that to be a good leader, one must lead by model and be quick to reflect. A leader must be able to handle pressure which both positive and negative and respond constructively to criticism. I used to struggle with receiving compliments, but this camp taught me to open my heart to appreciation as well.”
“I’ve learned that to be a good leader, one must lead by model and be quick to reflect. A leader must be able to handle pressure which both positive and negative and respond constructively to criticism. I used to struggle with receiving compliments, but this camp taught me to open my heart to appreciation as well.”
Mr. Beddu Hafidz, a doctoral student in Community Medicine from the Faculty of Medicine, also shared his experience that “I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in this camp. I made new friends and gained a lot of knowledge. One of my favorite activities was the Animal Personality Leadership exercise, which helped me understand myself better. I identified as a ‘bear,’ which suits my personality well. This activity will definitely help me in my future career.”
“Leadership comes in many forms. My friends often encourage me to lead, and I believe I can because of their support. I also enjoy public speaking, which helps me motivate others. I think this is the kind of leadership we need in today’s world
“Leadership comes in many forms. My friends often encourage me to lead, and I believe I can because of their support. I also enjoy public speaking, which helps me motivate others. I think this is the kind of leadership we need in today’s world
News: Prowsaeng Siripanuwat, International Relations Officer
Photo: Intern student, International Affairs Division
