Khon Kaen University (KKU) held a major ceremony on December 17, 2025, to honor its new class of graduates and recognize the achievements of its distinguished alumni. The event, titled “Inheriting the Mor Din Daeng Ideals,” took place at the Golden Jubilee Convention Center on the university campus.

The ceremony was organized by the university’s Division of Student Affairs and Commercial Innovation in collaboration with the KKU Alumni Association and other university departments. Its purpose was to congratulate the new bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree recipients of the 2025 academic year, who are set to attend the royal graduation ceremony. The event also aimed to foster a lasting bond with the institution, express gratitude to the faculty, and remind graduates of their role as valuable contributors to society and the nation.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the “Distinguished Alumnus” and “Alumni of Honour” awards. These accolades recognise former students who have made outstanding contributions and brought prestige to the university across various fields.

Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D. , President of Khon Kaen University, delivered a keynote address to the new graduates. He emphasized that while the hard skills learned are essential, other abilities developed during their studies—such as analytical thinking, creativity, and communication—will be crucial tools for success in their professional lives.

“Khon Kaen University’s commitment is ‘dedication to society,’ which has evolved into ‘creation and development for society,’” said President Charnchai. He urged graduates to embrace this principle and learn from failures, which he described as often providing more valuable lessons than success itself. “If you remain determined, success is not far out of reach,” he concluded, wishing the graduates success and happiness.

Mr. Morakot Pitharat, President of the KKU Alumni Association, congratulated both the award recipients and the new graduates. He welcomed the new alumni to join the association’s activities under the concept of “Helping, Supporting, Sharing, Building People, Building the Nation.”

Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, spoke on behalf of this year’s award recipients. As the 2025 Distinguished Alumnus, he called graduation one of the best moments in life and encouraged the new graduates to embrace lifelong learning to adapt to a rapidly changing world. “The university is always another home for all of us,” he said, assuring them that senior alumni are ready to provide support.

The ceremony was attended by university executives, council members, deans, faculty, and alumni, reflecting a strong sense of community and pride in the “Mor Din Daeng ideals” passed down through generations.

2025 Distinguished and Honorary Alumni Award Recipients:

• Distinguished Alumnus Award:

  • Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul (Faculty of Engineering, Class of ’25)

• Alumni of Honor Awards:

  • Research and Innovation for Society: Dr. Uracha Ruktanonchai (Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Class of ’30); Professor Dr. Prasit Thongbai (Faculty of Science, Class of ’34)
  • Academic Services: Dr. Nat Rungwong (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of ’23); Mrs. Uthumporn Kariuna (Faculty of Education, Class of ’26)
  • Organizational Management: Mr. Jakkapong Khamchan (Faculty of Engineering, Class of ’22); Dr. Watchara Kanjanakawinkul (Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Class of ’39)
  • Professional Development and Promotion: Mrs. Ubon Juangpanich (Faculty of Nursing, Class of ’13); Mr. Worawut Butwichian (Faculty of Agriculture, Class of ’34)
  • Arts and Culture Promotion: Mr. Tanwarin Sukkhapisit (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of ’29); Ms. Preeyaporn Patchanee (Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Class of ’51)
  • Social Development and Public Service: Associate Professor Dr. Khanitta Nuntaboot (Faculty of Nursing, Class of ’17); Mr. Suriya Tantiwiwat (Faculty of Engineering, Class of ’20); Mr. Decho Chaithap (Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Class of ’22)