Khon Kaen University (KKU) has demonstrated its academic excellence and innovative strength by winning top awards at the 17th Cooperative and Work-Integrated Education (CWIE) Conference and Competition of the Upper Northeastern University Network, held on April 8, 2026, at Northeastern University.

KKU students achieved outstanding success by securing all three major awards, reflecting the university’s strong emphasis on integrating academic knowledge with practical application.

The First Prize was awarded to “AI-Assisted Oblique Flashlight Test for Narrow Angle Screening” by Mr. Tharat Decharat, a student from the Faculty of Engineering. This project applies artificial intelligence to medical screening, enabling early detection of angle-closure glaucoma in a simple, accessible, and efficient manner.

The First Runner-up went to “Root System Architecture of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) in Response to Levels of Chicken Manure Application under Acidic Soil Condition (Andisol)” by Ms. Chanatsa Promthewa from the Faculty of Agriculture, under the supervision of Dr. Wilaporn Jiraananantkul. The research focuses on improving crop productivity under challenging soil conditions.

The Second Runner-up award was presented to “Energy Consumption Reduction of a 4-DOF SCARA Robot Using CACTO (Combined Approach for Cycle Time and Energy Optimization)” by Ms. Sirikorn Thongthai from the Faculty of Engineering, under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Pramin Acharit. The project aims to enhance industrial efficiency by reducing energy consumption in robotic systems.

This remarkable achievement highlights KKU’s commitment to producing high-quality graduates and impactful innovations that respond to real-world challenges, reinforcing its position as a leading university in the region and beyond.