On Friday, 24 July 2026, Khon Kaen University (KKU), through the Division of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy and the Art and Culture Centre, collaborated with Mahasarakham University (MSU), local surrounding community networks, and cultural preservation groups to host the “Khon Kaen University–Mahasarakham University Joint Candle Offering Ceremony 2026”. The initiative aimed to uphold Buddhist traditions, preserve Thai cultural heritage, and build strong relations between higher education institutions and local communities, bringing together over 200 participants.
The ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Niyom Wongpongkham, Ph.D., Vice President for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy at Khon Kaen University, serving as the lay chairperson. Phra Khru Sirivisutthikosol, Ecclesiastical District Head of Phra Lap Sub-district, served as the monastic chairperson. Executive administrators, faculty members, staff, students from both universities, community representatives, and local devotees gathered at Wat Don Kaew, Ban Khok Noi, Phra Lap Sub-district, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province, to present the embroidered lenten candles and offering sets (Thaiyadhamma), and to listen to a sermon.
The event also featured traditional folk performances by the Molam Klon Club of Khon Kaen University, led by renowned National Artists including Chaweewan Damnoen, P. Chalardnoi Songsern, and Ratreesrivilai Bongsithiporn. Their masterclasses and traditional Isan musical recitals provided cultural enrichment and entertainment while promoting regional heritage preservation.
In addition, the event featured traditional folk performances by the Molam Klon Club of Khon Kaen University, led by renowned National Artists including Chaweewan Damnoen, P. Chalardnoi Songsern, and Ratreesrivilai Bongsithiporn. Their masterclasses and traditional Isan musical recitals provided cultural enrichment and entertainment while promoting regional heritage preservation.
The joint merit-making initiative raised a total donation of 142,156 baht, which will be dedicated to supporting local Buddhist monastic activities and community religious functions. This annual event underscores the key role of higher education institutions in sustaining arts and culture, nurturing religious traditions, and expanding collaborative networks with local communities.
Additional photographs of the event can be viewed and downloaded at: https://kku.world/2b547z
