Today, 18 November 2025, the College of Local Administration (COLA KKU), represented by Asst. Prof. Sirisak Laochankham, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Local Administration, and the Faculty of Architecture (ARCH KKU), represented by Assoc. Prof. Kritphat Thapalabutr, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for academic cooperation focused on Lifelong Education Programmes. The signing ceremony took place at the College of Local Administration and was witnessed by executives from both faculties.

This new collaboration unites the “sciences of public administration and urban management” with the “sciences of architectural and design thinking.” The objective is to create innovative learning models for students, local government personnel, and interested stakeholders seeking to develop more liveable and sustainable cities.

 

 

The MOU outlines several key areas of cooperation, including:

1. Developing and managing lifelong education programmes in public administration, urban management, urban design, and architecture for sustainability.
2. Designing new learning activities, such as short courses, practical workshops, and real-world learning based on conditions in local communities and cities.
3. Jointly producing contemporary learning materials, including online, onsite, and blended formats, to ensure convenient access to lifelong education for all target groups.
4. Supporting the exchange of instructors and experts, and conducting joint research in urban development, city planning, and public policy at both the local and municipal levels.

This partnership is a strategic response by the College of Local Administration and the Faculty of Architecture to global shifts in geopolitics, economics, society, and technology. It specifically addresses challenges related to the development of Smart Cities, Livable Cities, and Sustainable Development.

This marks another important step for COLA KKU in advancing its vision: “A leading ASEAN institution in public affairs that creates value for society,” by generating continuous learning opportunities for everyone in the community.

Updates on programmes and activities resulting from the COLA x ARCH KKU partnership will be posted on this page and across the online channels of both faculties.