From July 16 to 19, 2025, the College of Local Administration (COLA), Khon Kaen University (KKU), led by its administrators, faculty, and staff, organized the “COLA Inspiration Building Workshop: Preparing Students for the 21st-Century World of Work” in Bangkok. The program engaged 230 third-year students and marked a key strategic initiative to enhance competencies and produce graduates equipped with the skills and mindset required for success in today’s dynamic society.
Held under the theme “Ignite Inspiration, Enhance Life Skills, Empower Dreams”, the program aimed to provide students with exposure to real-world working environments and first-hand learning experiences. Activities included cultural insights, interactions with government organizations and media agencies, as well as dialogues with successful next-generation leaders. These engagements enabled students to gain new perspectives on career planning, goal-setting, and self-development to adapt to a rapidly changing global context.
As part of the workshop, students visited several key national organizations, including the National Assembly of Thailand, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS), and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Digital Department, where they learned about the roles of government and media in shaping contemporary society.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Grichawat Lowatcharin, Associate Dean for Academic, Research, and Global Affairs, emphasized the importance of experiential learning:
“Education should not be confined to the classroom. Students must have the opportunity to experience the real world, engage in meaningful conversations with professionals, and gain fresh inspiration that empowers them to move forward with confidence. This program serves as a ‘bridge’ between academic life and real-life careers.”
This initiative reflects COLA’s commitment to advancing education under a New Paradigm, in alignment with Khon Kaen University’s vision of becoming a World-Leading Research and Development University and COLA’s mission to establish itself as ASEAN’s leading institution in public affairs that creates value for society.
