Khon Kaen University students secured multiple medals and a national representative spot at the Thailand Earth Science Olympiad 2026, marking a successful transition to hosting the upcoming national competition.
The POSN Centre for Earth Science and Astronomy (Northeast), hosted by the Department of Geotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University (KKU), recently achieved remarkable success at the Thailand Earth Science Olympiad 2026. Held at Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla Province, the KKU-trained team brought home one gold medal, four silver medals, and a certificate of participation, solidifying the University’s reputation for academic excellence in earth sciences.
National Representation and Medal Standings The highlight of the event was the performance of Mr. Chotiwat Watha from Roi Et Wittayalai School, who secured a gold medal. His exceptional results earned him the prestigious honour of being selected as a representative of Thailand to compete in the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) 2026, which will be held in Italy.
The following students also demonstrated outstanding capability, earning silver medals and certificates:
-
Mr. Raksa Sonkhamhan (Pathumthep Wittayakarn School, Nong Khai) – Silver Medal
-
Mr. Chonthan Waesorn (Khon Kaen University Demonstration School, Secondary Education Section) – Silver Medal
-
Mr. Nitipong Chaowongpanit (Khon Kaen Wittayayon School, Khon Kaen) – Silver Medal
-
Mr. Pannawit Kongsadee (Sisaket Wittayalai School, Sisaket) – Silver Medal
-
Ms. Ratchadaporn Ho (Princess Chulabhorn Science High School Loei) – Certificate of Participation
The Mentors Behind the Success This achievement is the result of intensive training and dedicated mentorship provided by experts from the Faculty of Technology and the Faculty of Science at Khon Kaen University. The instructional team focused on a comprehensive curriculum spanning theoretical knowledge, practical laboratory skills, and integrated earth science applications. The team was led and supervised by:
-
Assistant Professor Krittika Trakoonngam, Ph.D. (Team Supervisor)
-
Dr. Natthawut Homthong (Team Supervisor)
-
Assistant Professor Nutsara Surakhot (Instructor)
-
Associate Professor Wimonthip Singthuwan, Ph.D. (Instructor)
-
Assistant Professor Chaiyapong Ruangsuwan, Ph.D. (Faculty of Science, KKU)
Preparing for the 7th Thailand Earth Science Olympiad 2027 A pivotal moment of the ceremony was the official handover of the host flag to Khon Kaen University for the 7th Thailand Earth Science Olympiad, scheduled for 2027. KKU will host the prestigious national event under the theme “Unity of Earth and Planetary Systems.” This hosting duty underscores the trust the nationwide academic community places in the Faculty of Technology as a central hub for developing Thailand’s youth in earth and planetary sciences.
Assistant Professor Krittika Trakoonngam, Ph.D., in her capacity as the Chairperson for the upcoming 7th competition, formally accepted the host flag. She was accompanied by an observation committee including Assistant Professor Nutsara Surakhot, Associate Professor Wimonthip Singthuwan, Ph.D., Dr. Sutthiphong Thaweelap, and Ms. Thitirat Insalee. The team is currently studying best practices to ensure the 2027 event meets the highest international standards.
As a university committed to social contribution and academic leadership, Khon Kaen University is prepared to welcome institutions from across the country to the Northeast next year. The Faculty of Technology remains dedicated to fostering a new generation of scientists who will drive innovation and understanding of the Earth’s complex systems.
News: Priyachat Srisutham Photography: POSN Centre for Earth Science and Astronomy (Northeast)
