The Student Council of Khon Kaen University successfully organized the KKU Debate 2025, the university’s annual debate competition, held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the College of Local Administration. The opening ceremony was presided over by Asst. Prof. Prapansak Chaveerach, DVM, Ph.D., Assistant to the President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization, and attended by more than 100 participants, including faculty members, student competitors, and observers.
Sukhanat Lapphanatkhanti, Chair of the Organizing Committee, explained that the event aimed to enhance students’ communication and critical thinking skills, provide a platform for problem-solving and constructive self-expression, and encourage logical and reasoned dialogue. After an open application process that attracted widespread interest, 12 finalist teams were selected to engage in a spirited exchange of ideas.
“The Student Council hopes this debate will not only offer an opportunity for students to connect across faculties, but also help develop skills in rational communication and systematic research. These experiences are invaluable for both academic success and professional readiness after graduation,” Suknat stated.
The debate began at 8:00 AM and featured a high level of intensity and enthusiasm throughout the day. The judging panel included respected faculty members: Asst. Prof. Dr. Marasri Sorthip (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences), Asst. Prof. Sukhontarat Soythongdee (Faculty of Education), and Dr. Runglawan Sudmoon (Faculty of Law).
The championship title went to the team “Ohm Sittisruangsrikaew”, comprised of Paramat Deeplongam, Suwannee Sali, Sasirot Nakchangdaeng, and Thanakorn Phupanchueak — all from the Faculty of Education. The first runner-up was team “Pak Pen”, and the second runner-up was team “Si Sian Chuean Khom Kham”.
Thanakorn Phupanchueak, a student from the Faculty of Education and member of the winning team, shared that this competition marked the return of intercollegiate debating at KKU after a five-year hiatus. “It was a challenge I wanted to take on — to refine my knowledge and rhetorical skills through a competition that demands quick thinking, language proficiency, and well-researched arguments,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation for the final round’s motion: “Khon Kaen University should prioritize quality of life as equally as academic excellence.” He praised the debate as a space for students to reflect on real issues and advocate for a more inclusive, supportive campus. “I hope this becomes a regular event in the future,” he added.
News: Phanit Khatanak
Photos: KKU Photography Club & KKU Student Council
