Khon Kaen University proudly congratulates Mr. Tanapat Tanomdamrongsak, a graduating student of the Faculty of Dentistry, who has been selected as the recipient of the “Royal Award for Outstanding Student in Higher Education, Academic Year 2024” (announced by the Ministry of Education on July 30, 2025). This prestigious honor represents the highest recognition for students in Thailand and brings great pride to the University. Behind this success lies a story of perseverance, time management, and a deep commitment to serving society.
The First Feeling of Receiving Thailand’s Highest Student Honor
Recounting the moment he learned the results, Mr. Tanapat, fondly called “Big Boss,” said with excitement: “When the announcement was made, I was surprised, happy, and proud all at once. This award is the highest honor I could achieve as a student. The competition was very intense, with top students from across the Northeast participating. The interview questions were detailed, testing us in many aspects and very challenging. Receiving this award is truly an honor and a source of immense pride.”
From the “Sri Kalaphruek Award” to National Recognition
Tanapat explained that his journey began at the university level, when faculty members recognized both his outstanding academic performance and his active involvement in extracurricular activities. They encouraged him to apply for the “Sri Kalaphruek Award,” the highest student honor at Khon Kaen University. “Receiving the Sri Kalaphruek Award from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn last year was a key milestone. It paved the way for me to represent Khon Kaen University in the national selection for the Royal Award. It has been a journey of proving myself step by step,” he shared.
Success Beyond Academics: Activities with Heart
For Tanapat, the key to success was maintaining balance between academics and activities. He never viewed extracurricular work as a burden, but rather as an extension of learning and self-development. Over his six years at KKU, he has gained diverse experiences—serving as President of the Dental Student Union, earning 1st Runner-Up in the International Dental Physiology Quiz hosted by the University of Malaya, Malaysia, and engaging in activities under the Dental Student Union of Thailand.
Most significantly, he has continuously participated in mobile dental service projects from his first year until graduation. “I’ve taken on almost every role in these outreach projects—from organizing and supporting behind the scenes, to assisting, and eventually treating patients under the guidance of my professors. These experiences gave me a complete picture of how teamwork and service truly work,” he reflected.
Carrying Forward the Spirit of “Mo Din Daeng” as a Dentist for Society
Tanapat expressed his pride not only in his personal achievement but also in representing Khon Kaen University. “This award is not just for me but also for KKU, an institution that I deeply love. As a dentist, a ‘Maw Khwaeo’ born of Mo Din Daeng, I will continue to carry forward the University’s commitment to social service—whether as a faculty member or as a practicing dentist dedicated to patients.”
Currently appointed as a lecturer in Periodontology, Department of Oral Biomedical Science, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, Tanapat plans to pursue further specialization and bring back knowledge to enhance teaching and dental practice. He also left an inspiring message for younger students: “Do the activities you truly love and find joy in—recognition will follow naturally. I also hope that faculties and the University continue to provide equal opportunities and encouragement for all students, because potential is not limited to academics. Many students have unique talents waiting to be discovered, and with the right support, their success stories will multiply.”
Passing on the Torch of Inspiration
Khon Kaen University invites its students to submit entries for the “Sri Kalaphruek Award” and the “Kalaphruek Award” for 2025, to honor outstanding achievements and inspire future generations, just as Tanapat’s story has. Further details and submission guidelines are available at: https://sac.kku.ac.th/17738.
News and photos: Student Affairs and Alumni Relations Division, KKU
