Creative orientation initiative emphasises safety, equality, and Northeastern cultural heritage
The Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies at Khon Kaen University (KKU) organised the “2026 Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies Railway Welcoming Project”. This student orientation initiative aimed to provide a constructive and positive experience for incoming first-year students. The project featured a memorable train journey from Khon Kaen Station to Nong Khai province, designed to build relationships around the principles of safety, equality, and respect for human dignity. The event also integrated the traditional Bai Sri Soo Kwan blessing ceremony to warmly welcome the new students into the university community.
The departure atmosphere at the station was vibrant and well-attended. Mr. Chakkawan Glebbua, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, alongside members of the executive board, faculty members, senior students, and alumni, gathered to see off and support the participants on 27 June 2026. The train journey served as an interactive medium to ease the freshmen’s transition into university life, offering a shared space that encouraged social adaptation, mutual assistance, discipline, and collaborative teamwork.
Upon arriving at the destination in Nong Khai province, the student convoy visited Wat Pho Chai, a royal temple, to pay respects to the revered Luang Pho Phra Sai Buddha image, as well as the sacred icons of the faculty. This cultural excursion was organised to bring good fortune and moral encouragement to the students as they begin their higher education journey.
Later in the afternoon, at 16:00, the traditional Bai Sri Soo Kwan ceremony commenced. Grounded in Northeastern cultural heritage and local wisdom, faculty members, staff, and senior students participated in the wrist-tying ritual to bestow blessings of success, protection, and care upon the freshmen. The ceremony concluded with deep mutual appreciation and smiles, boosting student morale while engaging the younger generation in preserving local Thai arts and culture.
The memorable train journey concluded safely as the convoy returned to Khon Kaen Railway Station at 23:00. Asst. Prof. Suntaree Buchitchon, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, along with the faculty’s executive team and lecturers, waited on the station platform to welcome the first-year students back, marking the rewarding completion of the project.
The “2026 Railway Welcoming Project” reflects the commitment of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies and Khon Kaen University to holistic education. By balancing academic excellence with structured student development, the initiative builds strong peer networks, nurtures ethics, and instils important life skills, preparing the freshman class to grow into capable graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the development of society.
