KKU Joins Hands with Temple and Community to Plant 8,000 Siamese Rosewood Trees in Honor of Her Majesty Queen Suthida’s Birthday

6 June 2025
22:46

On Friday, June 6, 2025, Khon Kaen University’s Division of Physical and Environmental Affairs organized a tree-planting event to commemorate the birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana. The event was held at Wat Thepnarinthararam in Wang Sam Mo District, Udon Thani Province, and was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, as the secular representative, and Phra Ajarn Thepnarin Chinrarsee (Chantako Bhikkhu), abbot of Wat Thepnarinthararam, as the monastic representative. The activity gathered over 80 participants including KKU executives, faculty members, staff, students, and local villagers.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chupong Thongkamsamut, Vice President for Physical and Environmental Affairs, explained that the project is a collaborative initiative between the temple, Khon Kaen University, and the local community. A total of 8,000 Siamese rosewood (Dalbergia cochinchinensis) trees were planted across 20 rai (approx. 8 acres) of land, symbolizing deep loyalty and gratitude to Her Majesty the Queen for her tireless dedication to the Thai people.

“We hope this activity not only expresses our loyalty and appreciation for Her Majesty’s benevolence, but also promotes environmental sustainability. These 8,000 trees are expected to absorb approximately 216 tons of carbon dioxide annually, aligning with our goal to become a Green University,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chupong.

President Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D. added that:

“This tree-planting project is a meaningful way to celebrate this auspicious royal occasion. It reflects Her Majesty’s environmental conservation vision and encourages sustainable social responsibility. Today’s collaborative effort is a model of unity, environmental consciousness, and civic engagement.”

Phra Ajarn Thepnarin Chinrarsee shared that the temple initiated the reforestation project back in 2014 with the vision of creating a Buddhist Park. Every tree planted is dedicated as a royal merit to His Majesty the King and the royal family. Siamese rosewood was chosen due to its suitability for the local climate and its high economic value—often compared to gold. The tree not only provides habitat and oxygen but also serves as a vital natural asset for Thailand’s future.

Following the speeches, participants joined in planting the rosewood saplings. Warayut Kongprasert and Sitthichai Chanthawong, second-year students from the Faculty of Agriculture, expressed how meaningful it was to contribute their time to greening the community and helping address climate change—while also having the chance to visit the temple and reflect spiritually.

Similarly, Julajak Simlee and Thitinan Wongyapoh, third-year students from the Faculty of Medical Technology, shared that although they usually don’t get such opportunities on campus, the term break allowed them to join this initiative. They were thrilled to take part in an activity that supports oxygen generation and environmental conservation.

This initiative aligns with Khon Kaen University’s strategic commitment to sustainable development and community engagement. It fosters environmental awareness, strengthens the university’s ties with local communities, and reinforces KKU’s role in shaping a balanced and sustainable society.