The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University, has taken a proactive step in extending its academic services internationally. In collaboration with Wat Buddharam in Leeds, United Kingdom, the faculty launched the pilot project “Thai Language and Culture Summer Course 2025”, held during 11–22 August 2025.
The initiative was spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Orathai Piayura, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, together with Phra Khru Sirithamprateep (Wattana Yasawaddhano), Abbot of Wat Buddharam, supported by Dr. Kantaphong Chitkla, Vice Dean for Academic and Digital Affairs, and distinguished faculty members specializing in teaching Thai to foreigners, including Assoc. Prof. Rattana Chanthao, Ph.D., Asst. Prof. Isares Donphen, Ph.D., and Asst. Prof. Walee Preechapanyakul, Ph.D.
Promoting Thai Language as Soft Power
Assoc. Prof. Orathai Piayura explained:
“This project stems from our commitment to link academic knowledge with Thai communities overseas. Thai language and culture represent a form of Soft Power that can attract people of diverse nationalities. Learning Thai alongside experiencing Thai traditions, customs, and way of life allows foreigners to gain a deeper understanding of Thailand.”
Beyond a Language Classroom
The program was designed as more than a traditional Thai language class. It was built on collaboration between the university, the Thai community abroad, and local participants in Leeds. At its core was participatory learning, offering international learners the chance to practice basic Thai communication skills while engaging with Thai culture through hands-on activities. These included daily life conversations, cultural exchanges at the temple, and interactive cross-cultural dialogue.
Phra Khru Sirithamprateep praised the initiative:
“This project is invaluable because it instills and passes on Thai culture to the community. It is the first of its kind in the UK, held exclusively at Wat Buddharam in Leeds. We hope it becomes a center of learning, exchange, and cultural dissemination. Importantly, after the program, we discovered many ‘gems’ among the participants—those who are dedicated, understanding, and ready to carry forward and share Thai culture within their communities in the UK.”
Building Sustainable Academic Service Abroad
The project’s outcomes extended beyond language proficiency. It fostered a networked community of learners linking Khon Kaen University, Thai communities overseas, and local residents in Leeds. This collaboration has strengthened Thailand’s international image and laid the groundwork for sustainable academic service. By equipping foreigners with Thai language skills and cultural understanding, the project ensures that Thai identity will be preserved and shared with future generations abroad.
This marks a significant milestone for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University, in expanding its academic services internationally, enhancing Thailand’s global image, and building sustainable networks of Thai language and culture worldwide.
Acknowledgement: News and images courtesy of the International Affairs Group
Report: Corporate Communication Group
