KHON KAEN, 12 MARCH 2026 – Khon Kaen University (KKU) today formalised two strategic partnerships by executing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Alibaba Cloud (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and the Thai-Chinese Investment and Trade Promotion Association. The signing ceremony was held at the Sarasin Meeting Room in the Sirikunakorn Building.
The first MOU was executed between Khon Kaen University and Alibaba Cloud (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The signatories were Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, and Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization. Representing Alibaba Cloud were Ms. Chonthawan Sawasdee, Country Manager for Thailand, and Ms. Pimchanok Metheerattharot, Sales Associate.
Subsequently, a second MOU was executed between Khon Kaen University and the Thai-Chinese Investment and Trade Promotion Association. The agreement was co-signed by Dr. Phaichit Vibulthanasarn, the association’s Vice President and Secretary-General, and Ms. Saengchan Promsirianan, Manager.
Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul stated, “This collaboration reflects a mutual commitment between the academic and business sectors to foster cooperation in technology, innovation, and human resource development in response to the demands of the digital era. It focuses on establishing a robust network for trade, investment, and technology between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China, which is of critical importance for long-term educational, economic, and social development. Khon Kaen University is dedicated to being an innovation-driven institution that generates research and innovations which address industry needs and contribute to the sustainable development of the nation and the region.”
Regarding the agreement with Alibaba Cloud, Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit anounced that the collaboration will be conducted under the Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Program (AAEP). The key objectives are to cultivate and enhance the technological capabilities and entrepreneurial skills of KKU students, broaden their global and digital perspectives through joint activities, and facilitate the commercialisation of university research and intellectual property. Pursuant to its terms, this MOU shall remain valid for a period of one (1) year, from 12 March 2026 to 12 March 2027.
Ms. Chonthawan Sawasdee affirmed Alibaba Cloud’s commitment, stating, “Our company is prepared to support the development of KKU students’ technological competence and entrepreneurial skills. We will contribute by co-organising seminars, training, and study tours, and by facilitating connections between the university’s research, innovations, and personnel with relevant industry and investment sectors.”
The second MOU, executed with the Thai-Chinese Investment and Trade Promotion Association, aims to promote and support collaboration in academic affairs, human resource development, innovation, and the strengthening of trade and investment networks between Thailand and China.
Dr. Phaichit Vibulthanasarn confirmed, “The association will act as a central coordinator, connecting business networks and entrepreneurs in both nations. We will provide the university with market intelligence on Thai-Chinese trade and investment opportunities and will collaborate on seminars, business matching, and study tours to integrate the university’s research with industry and commerce.”
Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit added that this partnership is designed to elevate strategic cooperation in research, development, and technology transfer, thereby systematically developing the international trade and investment competencies of students, staff, and researchers. This MOU is established for a term of five (5) years, commencing 12 March 2026 and remaining in effect until 12 March 2031.
