Khon Kaen University (KKU) recently held a seminar aimed at revolutionizing its general education curriculum to foster “GE KKU Nextgen” and prepare students for future challenges. The event, organized by the General Education Teaching Institute (GETI KKU), took place on September 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Room GL315, 3rd Floor, Phot Sanasin Building, Khon Kaen University.
Asst. Prof. Denpong Soodphakdee, Ph.D. Vice President for Education and Digital, presided over the opening ceremony. The seminar attracted over 200 participants, including faculty members, staff, and students. This initiative aligns with KKU’s Strategy 1: Education Transformation, and Strategy 1: Curriculum Development towards a Learning Paradigm. Its primary objectives were to raise awareness and foster a shared understanding of the vision, principles, and goals of GE KKU Nextgen. The event also sought to gather policy and practical recommendations for developing and improving general education courses. It served as a platform for exchanging ideas, knowledge, and experiences on general education management that promotes the development of future-ready graduates.
Asst. Prof. Denpong Soodphakdee, Ph.D. Vice President for Education and Digital emphasized the critical need for students today to possess both professional skills and essential general skills. He highlighted communication, life skills, systematic problem-solving, creative thinking, and lifelong learning as crucial attributes. “Today, we don’t just need to learn professional skills in the classroom,” he stated. “We must also have the ability to solve problems impacting society and the environment, especially concerning technology and AI, which are unavoidable. Therefore, Khon Kaen University’s general education teaching addresses current educational needs and promotes the development of future graduates.”
Ms. Darin Wichaimol, a 4th-year law student at Khon Kaen University, expressed her support for allowing students to choose their general education courses. She believes this approach would enable students to select subjects based on their interests and personal development goals, leading to greater enjoyment and effectiveness in their studies. “Before, I felt like I was just studying because I had to,” she remarked. “But if we can choose what we’re interested in, we’ll be able to utilize it more effectively in the future.”
Assistant Professor Dr. Suchart Wattanachai, Ph.D. (Educational Technology), a veterinarian, sympathized with students who are forced to study subjects they dislike. He suggested that a well-designed curriculum plan, where faculties select core subjects, would allow students to choose relevant courses. This would offer dual benefits: faculties could enhance curriculum management, and students could genuinely pursue their interests. Dr. Suchart also expressed a desire to see clear indicators demonstrating student development in various competencies, encompassing both general and professional skills within the Thai context.
