Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with the New Zealand Embassy in Thailand and the Mekong Institute, hosted an event on Sunday, March 22, 2026, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and New Zealand.
The event, titled “New Zealand – Thailand Strengthening Partnerships in Khon Kaen,” was held at the Mekong Institute and aimed to enhance academic cooperation between the two nations.
Khon Kaen University was represented by a delegation led by Assistant Professor Atcharaawan Topark-ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs. Executives from various faculties, including Nursing, Medicine, Science, Associated Medical Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the International College, also attended.
Distinguished guests included H.E. Mr. Jonathan Kings, the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, and Dr. Tere McGonagle-Daly, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Students and Global Engagement at Massey University. They were joined by a delegation from Massey University to discuss the academic partnerships between the two countries’ educational institutions.
The program featured a presentation by Associate Professor Dr. Suwit Laohasiriwong on “Over Six Decades of Massey University – Thailand,” which highlighted the long-standing educational and academic relationship. A networking session followed, providing an opportunity for attendees from the academic, public, and private sectors, as well as New Zealand alumni, to exchange ideas and build future collaborations.
Khon Kaen University has maintained ongoing partnerships with educational institutions in New Zealand, with three active Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at both the university and faculty levels. These agreements have led to over 36 collaborative activities spanning teaching, research, student exchange, and cultural programs.
The event marks a significant step in advancing the relationship between Thailand and New Zealand, particularly in education, research, and international networking, paving the way for enhanced academic capabilities and joint innovation.
