Khon Kaen, Thailand – Khon Kaen University, through its Sector for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, has partnered with the Centre for Traditional Thai Medicine Studies, Faculty of Public Health, to enhance the quality of life for seniors in the Ban Pet community by sharing naturopathic knowledge and skills.
On Friday, 20 February 2026, Khon Kaen University participated in the “Development and Learning Promotion Programme for the Elderly and Pre-Elderly (School for the Elderly) for the 2026 Fiscal Year.” The event, held at the multipurpose hall of the Ban Pet Municipality, was attended by Ms. Waraporn Phiwpangam, Deputy Director of the Centre for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, who represented the university’s Sector for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability alongside a team of staff.
The event was officially opened by Mr. Soraworn Dansermsuk, Deputy Mayor of Ban Pet Municipality. In his opening remarks, he emphasised the importance of preparing for an ageing society by creating suitable and continuous learning spaces for the elderly.
The programme aims to improve the quality of life for seniors through lifelong learning, encompassing physical, mental, social, and intellectual health. It also provides a platform for the elderly to demonstrate their potential and pass on local wisdom and cultural heritage.
Khon Kaen University contributed its academic resources by providing expert lecturers from the Centre for Traditional Thai Medicine Studies, Faculty of Public Health. They conducted a workshop on naturopathic healthcare for seniors, featuring activities such as making traditional Thai herbal compresses. Participants learned every step of the process, from selecting the right herbs and blending them correctly, to applying the compresses safely and effectively. The goal is for attendees to apply this knowledge in their daily lives and build upon it to create sustainable community activities.
This initiative highlights Khon Kaen University’s role as a hub of knowledge that connects academic expertise with societal needs. By forging strong partnerships with local administrative organisations and driving community development through lifelong learning, the university is helping to lay a foundation for a capable and high-quality ageing society.
The School for the Elderly programme aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by promoting comprehensive health across all age groups; SDG 4 (Quality Education), through lifelong learning opportunities; and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), by fostering strong, supportive communities. This collaborative effort strengthens the foundation for a proficient ageing society with an enhanced and sustainable quality of life.
ภาพ : ฝ่ายวิสาหกิจและสังคมยั่งยืน มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น, เทศบาลเมืองบ้านเป็ด
