Khon Kaen University and Burapha University engage in a collaborative academic exchange programme to strengthen networks among young economists and enhance future professional skills.
From 18 to 19 June 2026, the Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University (KKU) welcomed faculty members and students from the Department of Economics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Burapha University. The delegation visited KKU to participate in the “Inter-Institutional Student Knowledge Exchange and Relationship Building Programme,” which aims to establish a network of young economists and strengthen ties between the two institutions.
The primary objective of this two-day programme was to promote academic and experiential exchange between students from both universities. By building a network of future economists from KKU and Burapha University, the initiative aims to develop skills central to their future careers, including analytical thinking, financial management, and collaboration across diverse environments.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suthin Wianwiwat, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University, remarked:
“The Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University is honoured to welcome the faculty members and students from the Department of Economics at Burapha University to this exchange programme. Building inter-institutional networks is important to maximising the potential of Thai economics students. Beyond purely academic knowledge, exchanging perspectives and experiences with peers from another institution broadens their horizons and equips them with the skills they need for professional life.“
Asst. Prof. Dr. Jakkrich Jearviriyaboonya, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Development at the Faculty of Economics, added:
“The special lecture on “The Isan Economy” was designed to give the students from Burapha University a deeper understanding of the economic structure and future trends of the north-eastern region, and of the economic context and dynamics of a region that plays a central role in national development. The introduction of our ‘Econ Coaching’ system reflects the Faculty’s commitment to student care and development.”
The programme featured a range of activities. On the first day, students from both universities took part in team-building activities and ice-breaking games, building familiarity and a foundation for future professional networks.
The second day began with the special lecture on “The Isan Economy” delivered by Asst. Prof. Jakkrich Jearviriyaboonya, Ph.D., followed by an introduction to the Faculty’s ‘Econ Coaching’ student support system. The delegation then visited the Khon Kaen University Natural History Museum to study natural sciences and environmental conservation. The afternoon centred on a financial planning session using the “Praxis” board game, facilitated by Ms. Kanokwan Somphan, an educational officer, alongside the Econ Coaching team. The programme concluded with a “Buddy–Budder” gift exchange, closing the visit on a warm note.
This exchange strengthened academic ties between the Faculty of Economics at KKU and the Department of Economics at Burapha University, building a foundation for long-term partnership and supporting the development of Thailand’s next generation of economists.
