Khon Kaen University Delegation Engages with KAIST Experts and Discusses Future Collaborative Research on Digital Innovation and Sustainable AI
Assistant Professor Suntaree Buchitchon, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies (FIS) at Khon Kaen University (KKU), along with FIS executives and researchers, participated in the “2025 Global Digital Innovation & Impact Hub Workshop in Thailand.” The event was held from 27–28 November 2025 at Chulalongkorn University, co-organised by the Technology Management and Innopreneurship Program (TIP) and Chulalongkorn Business School (CBS), in collaboration with executives and experts from KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), Republic of Korea.
The workshop was officially opened by Prof. Seung Hun Han, Dean of the Graduate School of Global Digital Innovation, KAIST, who delivered a keynote address on “Sustainable AI Innovation.” Professor Han underscored the critical importance of developing artificial intelligence technology alongside ethical considerations, social equity, data governance, and environmental sustainability—a vital topic in an era where AI is transforming all sectors of society.
Throughout the two-day programme, participants from Thailand and South Korea engaged in intensive knowledge exchange through lectures and academic activities, including:
- “Korea’s AI Leap: A Blueprint for Digital Growth,” presented by Suk Kyoung Kim, Invited Professor of the School of Business and Technology Management, KAIST.
- “Analyzing AI Risk and Educational Imperatives through Case Studies,” presented by Chul Ho Lee, Associate Professor of the School of Business and Technology Management, KAIST.
- A Networking Dinner aimed at forging inter-institutional collaborative partnerships.
- Presentation of “Best Cases of R&DB Project by National Specialists.”
Representing Khon Kaen University, Lecturer Tanapattara Wongkhamchan, from the Department of Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, was invited to present his research on “Study and Design of a Real-Time Water Level Monitoring System for Water Management and Flood Prevention in Nong Khai Province.” This project, funded by the Program Management Unit for Area-Based Development (PMU-A), showcased an innovative real-time water level monitoring system that substantially supports integrated water management and flood risk reduction in Nong Khai Province. This clearly demonstrates the Faculty’s potential in developing technologies that address the practical needs of local communities and society.
During the workshop, the FIS delegation also held a meeting with Professor Seung Hun Han to discuss future collaborations between the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, KKU, and the Graduate School of Global Digital Innovation, KAIST. A primary goal is to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop international research projects, particularly focusing on digital innovation, data governance, the application of AI for community development, and water management technology systems. This focus aligns directly with Mr. Wongkhamchan’s research, which was highlighted as a key area for extended cooperation.
Furthermore, the two institutions explored joint academic activities, such as Special Lectures, aimed at enhancing the digital skills of students and staff within the Faculty. Topics identified for development include:
- AI Literacy, to provide accurate understanding of artificial intelligence technology.
- Cyber Security, to boost higher education proficiency in cyber safety.
- AI for Entrepreneur, to enable students to effectively utilise AI tools for business development and innovation.
This discussion successfully laid the foundational steps for in-depth cooperation in both research and academic development, promising future international joint projects with tangible societal outcomes.
The Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, extends its sincere gratitude to the host institution and the experts from KAIST for co-organising this highly valuable knowledge exchange platform, which is pivotal in driving the Faculty towards becoming a centre for integrated innovation and research within the Greater Mekong Subregion and internationally.
