A Landmark Memorandum of Understanding Was Signed to Drive the “Smart City” Initiative, Aiming to Create Innovative Models for Local Development and Enhance Quality of Life.
KHON KAEN – The Faculty of Engineering at Khon Kaen University has forged a significant academic collaboration, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with nine city, town, and sub-district municipalities. The partnership aims to drive the Smart City development project, focusing on applying advanced engineering technologies to enhance local governance and improve the quality of life for residents.
The signing ceremony was held on 10 April 2026 at the Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University. Associate Professor Ratchaphon Suntivarakorn, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, represented the university in signing the agreement alongside the mayors and executive teams from the nine partner municipalities. The participating bodies include Khon Kaen City Municipality, Udon Thani City Municipality, Ubon Ratchathani City Municipality, Kalasin Town Municipality, Yasothon Town Municipality, Sila Town Municipality, Loei Town Municipality, Mueang Kao Sub-district Municipality, and Phra Lap Sub-district Municipality.
Associate Professor Suntivarakorn stated, “This collaboration synergises the strengths of the academic sector and local administrative organisations. We aim to apply our expertise in engineering and digital innovation to address challenges and develop each area in alignment with its unique local context. Our goal is to create comprehensive Smart Cities covering all seven key dimensions: Smart Environment, Smart Economy, Smart Energy, Smart Governance, Smart Living, Smart Mobility, and Smart People. This initiative is designed to foster sustainable development that genuinely meets the needs of the public.”
Under this three-year MOU, the ten organisations will collaborate on developing strategic plans, providing technical data, and creating practical innovations. These projects will serve as pioneering models for other cities in the region, preparing local communities to transition towards becoming internationally recognised Smart Cities.
