On June 16, 2025, Khon Kaen University held the event “First Meeting for KKU Freshmen 2025”, welcoming the 62nd generation of new students—also known as “Kalaphruek Generation 62”. The opening ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of KKU, along with Mr. Prachuap Rakpat, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen, who delivered warm greetings to the students.
Over 8,000 attendees, including first-year students from 19 faculties and 5 colleges, senior students, and alumni, gathered at the KKU 50th Anniversary Sports Complex for this significant event.
The celebration began with a traditional cultural procession from the entrance gate toward the sports stadium, followed by a spectacular performance of the “Fon Bai Sri Luang” (a traditional dance). The highlight of the ceremony was the Bai Sri Su Kwan ritual, conducted by National Artist Ajarn Chalard Songserm (Por P. Chalardnoi), master of the Mor Lam art form, accompanied by the Isan khaen master Ajarn On Kaenkhiao (Phongsaphon Upani). University executives then personally tied symbolic white cords around the wrists of the freshmen, wishing them good fortune.
After the ritual, Dr. Wandee Phonthongsathit, another National Artist, performed Mor Lam to further bless and welcome the new students. The event closed with an Isan cultural show, leaving the newcomers with warm memories.
KKU President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul expressed his joy in welcoming the new generation:
“I am thrilled to meet all of you today. This year is special in many ways. First, you are the second batch of students following our 60th Anniversary last year. Our alumni now total over 250,000. Second, this is the first year we’ve brought together all 19 faculties and 5 colleges, including students from the Interdisciplinary Studies Faculty in Nong Khai. Third, this year’s event was meticulously organized by our student body, with a National Artist presiding over the ritual—something we can be truly proud of.”
He elaborated on the significance of the Bai Sri Su Kwan ceremony:
“It serves three purposes—calling the spirits of students who may feel nervous or homesick; symbolizing their formal entry into the KKU family; and blessing their academic journey ahead. Today marks your official welcome into our home. From this day forward, we are one family. I wish this moment becomes a beautiful beginning to your happy and meaningful life at KKU.”
Mr. Sorawit Tangphakdee, President of the Student Organization and a fourth-year Engineering student, explained this year’s theme:
“This First Meet event is the first time all new students gather at the 50th Anniversary Sports Complex. The theme ‘Su Kwan Luk Phra That’ draws inspiration from Phra That Phanom, KKU’s symbolic landmark. Our stage and decorations reflect this sacred structure.”
He added:
“We’ve spent over two months preparing this. Behind the scenes, over a thousand volunteers from various teams—performers, student council, and student organization—worked tirelessly throughout the break. Just seeing the new students smile makes everything worthwhile. We often say to each other, ‘Hed Phuea Nong Mai Duai Jai Thee Faoror’—‘Doing this for the new students with a heart that’s been waiting.’ This phrase energizes the entire team, reminding us why we’ve poured our hearts into this.”
Several freshmen also shared their heartfelt reactions:
Ms. Sirinapa Khumduang (Donut), a first-year student from the International College:
“I feel so proud and touched by this warm welcome. I’m truly thankful to all the seniors who organized this.”
Ms. Jiraporn Trisi (Nungning), a local from Khon Kaen and a first-year student from the Faculty of Agriculture:
“This is my dream school since childhood. I feel extremely proud to finally be here, and to receive such a beautiful Bai Sri Su Kwan ceremony.”
Ms. Passara Namaasa (Focus), another first-year Agriculture student:
“This was so fun and heartwarming. I made friends from several faculties like Fine Arts, Engineering, and Technology. I love how KKU uses Isan tradition to welcome us—it feels like home!”
Ms. Kittiya Chaisanan (Pingping), from the College of Local Administration, originally from Udon Thani:
“Even though I’m far from home, the warm welcome makes me feel like I’m not alone. It’s like I have family here.”
Mr. Setthasuth Kamthanit (Danny), a freshman from the Faculty of Technology:
“I’m so happy today. I’ve always wanted to study at KKU. When I got accepted, I screamed with joy! The ceremony, the performances, the senior students—everything has been so well organized. I’m truly impressed.”
The student welcome events will continue on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, with the “Welcome KKU Freshmen 2025” under the theme:
“Mor Kor Khai Hug Nong Mai Su Om Jai Nai Duean Hok” (KKU lovingly welcomes freshmen into its heart in the sixth month),
to be held at the Golden Jubilee Convention Hall. This orientation will include fun, engaging activities designed to help freshmen better connect with KKU’s unique university culture and community.
News by: Rawiporn Saaisanthong
Photos by: Atthaphon Hampong / Sukrit Sirith, Student Interns – KKU Communications Division
