The Faculty of Economics at Khon Kaen University (KKU) welcomed a delegation from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and partner agencies on 21 July 2026. The visit was led by Asst. Prof. Prasert Vijitnopparat, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, Academic Services, and Corporate Communications, together with faculty members and staff. The delegation joined KKU’s Isan Insight Center team for a strategic discussion on regional socioeconomic development at Room W401, Fundamental Skills and General Education Building.
The visiting delegation comprised key executive representatives and academic partners, including Mrs. Monthathip Chanphum Wittayarath, Director of the Executive System Development Group at the Northeastern Regional Economic and Social Development Office; Ms. Jarinya Sayud, Director of the Northeastern Regional Economic and Social Development Office, along with a team from the Thammasat University Research and Consultancy Institute (TU-RAC); and Prof. Dr. Thanyaluck Weerasombat from the Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University, and her delegation.
The primary objective of the meeting was to exchange expert knowledge and strategic insights regarding regional socioeconomic development, enhance academic and research collaboration across institutions, and foster seamless operational integration between public sector agencies and higher education institutions. These joint efforts aim to drive sustainable development initiatives throughout Northeastern Thailand and the nation at large.
Welcoming the delegates, Asst. Prof. Prasert Vijitnopparat, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, Academic Services, and Corporate Communications, stated: “On behalf of the Faculty of Economics, Khon Kaen University, it is an honour to extend a warm welcome to the delegation from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council and all partner organisations. This meeting serves as a vital platform for exchanging valuable knowledge and deep insights regarding the socioeconomic advancement of the Northeastern region. The Faculty of Economics remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering rigorous academic data and research outputs that support sustainable regional planning.”
Asst. Prof. Dr. Vijitnopparat further highlighted the interdisciplinary synergy of the collaboration: “Partnering with the Northeastern Regional Economic and Social Development Office, the Thammasat University Research and Consultancy Institute, the Faculty of Social Administration at Thammasat University, and our Isan Insight Center allows us to integrate diverse fields of expertise—ranging from economics and social sciences to development administration. This multidisciplinary framework strengthens our academic networks and will ultimately accelerate sustainable progress across the Northeast.”
The conference featured comprehensive data presentations, open policy dialogues, and collaborative discussions on key strategic priorities. Central topics included targeted economic and social development frameworks for the Isan region, mechanisms for cross-agency research integration, and the establishment of enduring academic-public sector partnerships.
This landmark engagement marks a significant milestone in solidifying institutional cooperation between Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Economics, the NESDC, and leading academic partners. By drawing on evidence-based research and regional insights, this collaboration reinforces KKU’s core mission of social contribution, community engagement, and the advancement of long-term economic prosperity for Northeastern Thailand.
