A collaborative initiative empowers local reed grass producers with academic expertise to standardise the value chain and drive sustainable community-based economic growth.
The Maha Sarakham Provincial Government is advancing the systematic development of its traditional reed grass (KOK) handicrafts. Academic experts from the Faculty of Architecture at Khon Kaen University (KKU) have engaged with local producers to transfer technical knowledge, with the aim of establishing production standards from upstream cultivation to downstream processing, supporting a sustainable economy, and opening local products to international markets.
From 22 to 23 June 2026, the Maha Sarakham Provincial Community Development Office organised a capacity-building workshop for local reed grass producers. Held at Chai Prasit Temple in Ban Phaeng, Phaeng Sub-district, Kosum Phisai District, Maha Sarakham Province, the event focused on improving raw material quality, refining manufacturing processes, and adding value to community-based reed grass products. The project aligns with the principles of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The initiative was launched under the policy of Mr. Chumpit Decharat, Governor of Maha Sarakham Province, who prioritises grassroots economic development by drawing on cultural capital and local wisdom. The development framework integrates cooperation among government agencies, academic institutions, and local communities to establish a complete value chain — encompassing upstream, midstream, and downstream phases — for the province’s reed grass handicraft industry.
To deliver specialised training, the provincial government invited a distinguished team of five design experts from the Faculty of Architecture at Khon Kaen University. Led by Dr. Akkhaphon Lamoung, Dr. Monthida Lertnimanradee, and Lecturer Phitravee Sura-aree, the academic team was joined by special guest lecturers, Lecturer Kittisak Lamsombat and Lecturer Jaturaphit Phimsaeng. Together, they conducted hands-on workshops and lecture sessions focusing on modern production systems over the two-day event.
The workshop also provided a collaborative forum to compile and consolidate local knowledge from farmers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs. The outcomes will be used to develop regional guidelines for systematic cultivation and crop management, with the ultimate goal of publishing a standardised production manual and establishing a shared knowledge repository to sustain the long-term value chain of Maha Sarakham’s reed grass products.
This project represents a step forward in standardising Maha Sarakham’s reed grass industry through co-creation among the community, public sector, and academia. By strengthening the capabilities of local producers, establishing reliable raw material standards, and raising the competitiveness of these traditional handicrafts, the partnership supports local products in reaching national and international markets while contributing to sustainable economic development for the province.
