KHON KAEN, THAILAND — Khon Kaen University has joined forces with the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) to advance national water management policy. On 10 June 2026, the NRCT hosted the “Thailand Water Security Forum 2026 Episode 5: Khon Kaen – Chaiyaphum,” under the theme “Aiming for Thailand’s Future Water Security”. The event showcased successful research and innovation models deployed to combat water scarcity and flooding, establishing both provinces as national blueprints for sustainable development.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr. Danuporn Punnakanta, Advisor to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The forum welcomed a distinguished delegation of executives, researchers, and local network partners, including Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Director of the National Research Council of Thailand; Mr. Yuthaporn Pirunsarn, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province; Mr. Thongchai Olarattanachai, Deputy Governor of Chaiyaphum Province; and Ms. Saowanee Mungsujritkan, Deputy Director of the National Research Council of Thailand. The event drew broad participation from public and private sector representatives at the Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre.
Mr. Danuporn Punnakanta, Advisor to the Minister of MHESI, emphasised that the forum reflects the important role science, research, and innovation play in addressing water resource challenges, which form the foundation of food security, economic stability, and quality of life in the face of climate change. MHESI aims to translate research into practical application by integrating data on water resources, disaster risk, agricultural zones, and community economics through digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), geoinformatics, sensors, and early warning systems, improving drought and flood forecasting, water allocation, and policy decision-making. This work led to the official handover of nine water management innovations to 21 local agencies across Khon Kaen and Chaiyaphum.
The forum featured an exhibition of 12 water research and innovation projects implemented within local communities. A keynote panel discussion titled “Thailand Water Security Forum 2026 Episode 5: Khon Kaen – Chaiyaphum: Water Management Blueprints: Integrating Local Power towards Isan Community Income” brought together multi-sectoral experts to exchange insight. Panellists included Dr. Anuwat Srisawat from the Institute of Strategic Research at Khon Kaen University; Ms. Suwannee Phia-ia from the Khon Kaen Provincial Office; Acting Sub-Lieutenant Yupharat Phanomphrom from the Khon Kaen Provincial Office of Agriculture; Mr. Tuangchoke Chaleekul from the Chaiyaphum Town Municipality; Mr. Chaiwat Dokmaingam from the Khon Chiam Subdistrict Administrative Organisation; Mr. Suthee Thinarat from the Ban Haet Mango Community Enterprise Group; and Mr. Adisak Kanha from the Ban Non Khwa Farmers Group. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Somkiat Prajamwong, Committee Member for the Promotion of Strategic Research and Innovation Plans, and Associate Professor Sujarit Koontanakulvong, Ph.D., Programme Director.
During the afternoon session, participants visited successful local water management sites in Khon Kaen, including the water management system of the Ban Haet Mango Community Enterprise for Export and the urban flood warning system developed by the Ban Ped Town Municipality. The collaboration reflects Khon Kaen University’s work in research, innovation, and community engagement. By connecting academic knowledge with public policy and local action, the university supports sustainable development, the grassroots economy, and the well-being of communities across the north-eastern region.
