The newly established centre aims to bring the Greater Mekong Subregion to prominence on the global stage through advanced research and academic services.
The Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University has officially announced the launch of its new academic and research hub, the “Global Research and Learning Centre for the Development of GMS and Related Economic Regions.” This international centre is established to generate high-quality research, advance academic services, and cultivate comprehensive knowledge. Its primary goal is to drive economic progress, social development, and long-term sustainability across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and its interconnected economic zones, projecting these efforts onto the global stage.
As an international academic and research hub, the centre systematically integrates research, teaching, and academic services to foster sustainable innovation. This integrated approach is designed to meet the evolving needs of policy-makers, businesses, and civil society groups throughout the GMS and related economic regions.
Associate Professor Suthin Wianwiwat, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University, stated:
“The launch of the Global Research and Learning Centre for the Development of GMS and Related Economic Regions marks a defining moment for the Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University as we extend our academic role onto the international stage. This centre will serve as a key mechanism in driving high-quality research that directly addresses the economic and social development challenges of the GMS. This initiative aligns well with our vision to be a leading school of economics in the GMS, renowned for excellence in applied economics.”
The Dean further noted that the centre will function as a strategic bridge connecting academic expertise with practical policy formulation and commercial application at local, national, and international levels. By building strong collaborative networks with leading research institutes and universities worldwide, the centre aims to strengthen the economic resilience and sustainable development of the GMS across all dimensions.
The Global Research and Learning Centre for the Development of GMS and Related Economic Regions will focus on five core missions:
- Building academic networks: Establishing local and international partnerships to strengthen research capacity and facilitate global knowledge exchange.
- Promoting international research: Producing high-quality, internationally recognised research.
- Supporting policy development and regional sustainability: Applying economic insights to shape public policies that respond effectively to regional demands.
- Developing curricula and lifelong learning programmes: Building human capital by offering educational opportunities for professionals and learners of all age groups.
- Translating knowledge into social impact: Ensuring that research outcomes and academic services generate concrete benefits for socio-economic development.
To achieve these goals, the centre has structured its research and learning frameworks around three strategic pillars. The first focuses on GMS Trade, Logistics, and Cross-Border Digital Economy, examining commerce, supply chains, and digital economic integration across borders. The second addresses ESG, Low-Carbon Economy, and Social Outcomes, prioritising sustainable growth through environmental, social, and governance frameworks. The third applies behavioural economics to policy and service design, using behavioural insights to improve public policy and the design of public services.
The establishment of this centre reflects the commitment of the Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University to serve as an international academic hub generating sustainable solutions for the subregion. KKU welcomes public institutions, the private sector, academic organisations, and international bodies to collaborate in this research and learning initiative, working together to strengthen the capacity of the GMS and related economic regions globally.
