The Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, welcomed Professor Jein-Shan Chen from National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), Taiwan, for a visit and discussion on academic collaboration between 26 and 27 October 2568.
On 27 October 2568, between 09.00 and 11.00 hrs., Ajarn Sukhum Rueangchai, Ph.D., Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communications, guided Professor Chen on a visit to the SCi Instruments Centre. This centre is crucial for supporting the Faculty’s research and innovation development. Professor Chen observed the modern scientific instrumentation and the internationally standardised service systems, and he was also briefed on the Faculty of Science’s facilities, academic buildings, and general curriculum data.
Between 13.00 and 14.00 hrs., Assistant Professor Angkhana Boonjeund, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Science, together with Associate Professor Pimvadee Pornpongrungrueng, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Associate Professor Somnuek Worawiset, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Student Development and Alumni Relations; Associate Professor Sujeeporn Athibai, Ph.D., Assistant Dean for Education and Academic Services; Ajarn Sukhum Rueangchai, Ph.D., Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communications; Professor Thawat Changphas, Ph.D., Head of the Mathematics Department; and Associate Professor Nimit Nimana, Ph.D., Lecturer in the Mathematics Department, formally welcomed Professor Chen.
The meeting culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The initial dialogue leading to this signing began when Associate Professor Nimit Nimana participated in a workshop organised by NTNU. This collaboration opens doors for future cooperation in research, student and faculty exchange, and undergraduate student co-operative education programmes. The signing ceremony was successfully held at Wittayawipas 2 Room, 2nd Floor, Wittayawipas Building.
Furthermore, Ajarn Rueangchai and Professor Chen exchanged preliminary information about their respective units, including available programmes, faculties/departments, scholarship opportunities, and other beneficial details. This initial data exchange establishes the foundation for future academic opportunities, student exchange, and joint research development.
Later, between 14.30 and 16.00 hrs., Professor Chen delivered a special lecture titled “Smoothing Functions for Sparse Optimisation: A Unified Framework” at Room 7305, SC07 Building, Mathematics Department. The lecture provided new perspectives to the faculty and students on applying mathematics to solve complex optimisation problems under constraints. Attendees gained insights into new concepts and techniques that can be applied and extended in their ongoing research and academic innovation development.
The signing of this MoU reflects the Faculty of Science, KKU’s commitment to building international academic networks to elevate the quality of education, exchange, and research. This partnership offers students and personnel opportunities to learn and exchange experiences with a leading world-class institution, fostering the development of high-quality human resources and the creation of innovations that address Thailand’s future development needs.
