KHON KAEN – The Faculty of Nursing at Khon Kaen University (KKU) recently participated in a major youth health fair aimed at tackling the pressing issues of unplanned teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in Thailand.

The event, titled “Modern Teens Care for Health (Love Smart, Protect Smart),” was held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Khon Kaen Hall in the Central Khon Kaen shopping center. The fair drew a large crowd of high school students and young people and was officially opened by Dr. Ekachai Piansriwatchara, Inspector General of the Ministry of Public Health for Health Region 7.

Organizers stated the event was a necessary response to significant adolescent health challenges affecting Thai society, particularly unplanned pregnancies and STDs, which can negatively impact the education and future prospects of young people.

A team from KKU’s Midwifery Division, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Kwansuda Boontoch, Assistant Dean for Student Development and Alumni Relations, hosted a popular exhibition booth called “INU KKU SMART.” The booth focused on providing academic knowledge about STD prevention and proper contraception methods. It engaged attendees with creative Q&A sessions on condom use and adolescent health, rewarding participants with souvenirs. The initiative also provided a valuable opportunity for nursing students to gain practical experience in public health promotion.

The comprehensive health fair was organized by the Health Promotion Center 7 Khon Kaen, in collaboration with the Khon Kaen Municipality and partner organizations. The broader goal was to raise awareness about physical and mental well-being and systematically improve the quality of life for adolescents.

Other activities at the fair included a panel discussion on teen pregnancy and STDs featuring an OB/GYN from the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, a cover dance competition, and workshops on breast cancer awareness and stress management. The event also featured exhibitions on reproductive health, nutrition, and risk-behavior management, and included a ceremony to provide equipment for “Health Station at School” pilot programs.