Khon Kaen – On Saturday, 10 January 2026, Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with Khon Kaen Province and various network partners, hosted the 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon (KKIM 2026).

         The opening ceremony for the 4.5-kilometre Fun Run (walk-run for health) category and the accompanying Children’s Day activities was led by Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University; Mr. Khajornkiat Rakpanichmanee, Governor of Khon Kaen Province; Mr. Sukit Sirinarankul, Chairman of the University Promotion Affairs Committee  ;  Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit  , Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization  ; Mrs. Natsamol Tanakulrungsarit, Vice President for Legal and  Communications; and Associate Professor Issara Kanjak, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Education. 

         The event, which brought together university executives and generous sponsors, featured a Fun Run and a vibrant Children’s Day festival. Participants enjoyed educational activities focused on reinforcing academic learning and development, alongside a grand food and beverage fair with over 200 stalls for runners and their families. The event began at the starting point, the Golden Jubilee Convention Centre, Khon Kaen University.

Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of KKU, welcomed attendees and formally opened the event, stating that Khon Kaen University is committed to dedicating its resources to the community and society. The University prioritises enhancing human potential, particularly through sports, which is fundamental to developing both physical and mental well-being.

“KKU has continuously supported the organisation of the Khon Kaen International Marathon,” said President Panthongviriyakul. “This year, the event is held on a grand scale to celebrate National Children’s Day under the motto, ‘Love Thailand, Care for the World.’ Additionally, the Faculty of Education at KKU is hosting learning activities at Satit Khon Kaen University Demonstration School (Kindergarten Section) to cultivate high-quality future citizens among Thai children and youths.”

The President noted that the 21st annual Walk-Run for Health event received a strong response, attracting over 5,000 health enthusiasts and members of the public, and received excellent support from all sectors. “This year is particularly special as it coincides with National Children’s Day. Our goal is not only to encourage people of all ages to exercise through walking or running for better health, but also to ensure that families and youths can enjoy the full range of Children’s Day activities,” he elaborated.

Associate Professor Issara Kanjak, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Education, Khon Kaen University, highlighted the faculty’s commitment to hosting National Children’s Day annually. He emphasised the importance of promoting the mental, emotional, intellectual, and lifelong learning development of young people so they can effectively contribute to society.

“The 2026 event was made possible through the support of various public and private sector partners, as well as parents. This collaboration allowed us to execute the event on a wide and impressive scale under the true concept of ‘Fun Run and Fun Learn’,” explained Dean Issara. “Furthermore, the event included the presentation of 14 scholarships to underprivileged schools by a specialised physician from Namphong Hospital. We also received invaluable assistance from the Protective and Security Division of Khon Kaen University in managing traffic. We are grateful for the high level of support from all agencies in ensuring the learning experience for children was smooth and effective.”

The 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon spanned two days. On Saturday, 10 January 2026, three categories were held: the 5.4 km Elite Fun Run, the 2.8 km Kids Run, and the 5.4 km Fun Run (walk-run for health). Runners were released at 07:00 hrs.

Mrs. Khanamporn Kitsilp, the parent of Nong Marnfah, a student at Satit Khon Kaen University Demonstration School (Kindergarten Section), shared her perspective: “Our family regularly enjoys running. Her grandfather, grandmother, and father serve as role models, fostering Nong Marnfah’s love for running. We participate in the Khon Kaen International Marathon every year. Last year, Nong Marnfah secured first runner-up in her age category, which motivated her to run again this year.”

She added that their objective is to promote health, perseverance, and discipline in her daughter. Given the safety standards and excellent organisation of the race, she expects the family to continue participating consistently every year.

 

The finishing line for the 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon was located near Satit Khon Kaen University Demonstration School (Kindergarten Section). This placement was intentional, allowing participants in the Kids Run and Fun Run categories—who often run as families—to engage immediately with the Children’s Day activities.

The Faculty of Education curated a diverse range of 13 academic learning booths, covering subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Computer Science, Social Innovation, Arts and Music, Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Thai Language, Japanese Language Instruction, and English Language Instruction. The programme also featured sports competitions, a performance by soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, stationed at Siharat Dechochai Camp, and cultural performances on stage.

Ms. Thipawan Thanakitkarnkosol, the parent of Nong Little (left), expressed her appreciation for the Children’s Day event: “I believe every child has potential, and Children’s Day is an opportunity for them to explore and discover their own abilities. In the case of my son, the Khon performance activity taught him responsibility and time management so he could attend rehearsals alongside his studies. It instils discipline and systematic time division. Being responsible for something allows children to draw out their true potential. This also helps us as parents learn about our children and provide support for them to learn and realise their full potential. We thank Khon Kaen University for hosting the event and providing this learning space for all our families.”

Master Natphum Lhada, or ‘Nong Little,’ a Primary 5 student (centre), revealed, “I love watching Khon and dream of becoming Hanuman. Today, I had the chance to perform at Children’s Day, which hopefully inspired younger students in Kindergarten. I feel very excited and happy.”

Although the Children’s Day festivities concluded successfully, the 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon continued with three remaining race categories on Sunday, 11 January 2026, all starting from Khon Kaen University: the Full Marathon (42.195 kilometres) starting at 03:00 hrs, the Half Marathon (21.1 kilometres) starting at 04:00 hrs, and the Mini Marathon (11.35 kilometres) starting at 04:45 hrs.