On 4 August 2026, at Suralai Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAM, Bangkok, the Office of Academic Service at Khon Kaen University (KKU) reaffirmed its institutional commitment to social responsibility by participating in the 18th National Conference on Persons with Disabilities 2026 (NCPD 2026). The annual conference was organised under the theme “Learning to Earning through Innovation for Persons with Disabilities in an Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable Society”.
During the event, the Office of Academic Service featured the Khoon Daeng Yai group, an occupational network developed under the Khon Kaen Disability Empowerment Project. The team delivered an interactive vocational workshop titled “Leftover Fabric, Zero Waste”, demonstrating the transformation of textile offcuts into high-value items. Additionally, the initiative showcased and retailed “Dong Dee Dong” crispy seasoned mushroom snacks, a signature product created by the disability community group from Ban Dong Sub-district, Ubol Ratana District, Khon Kaen Province.
The workshop generated significant interest among attendees by demonstrating how ordinary fabric scraps can be upcycled into handcrafted accessories, such as Orange Jessamine flower earrings and decorative hair scrunchies. The session highlighted practical value-addition techniques, ranging from precise cutting and folding methods to modern packaging design tailored for commercial markets.
Presiding over the ceremony, Mr. Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, used his opening address to emphasise the strategic shift from Learning to Earning to enhance the quality of life and self-reliance of persons with disabilities. This vision directly aligns with the operational framework of the Office of Academic Service at Khon Kaen University, which continuously applies research innovation and academic knowledge to dismantle socio-economic barriers and expand career opportunities across the northeastern region.
Highlighting the institution’s growing leadership in disability empowerment, Khon Kaen University was officially presented with the ceremonial host flag to organise the 19th National Conference on Persons with Disabilities in 2027. Prof. Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, represented the university to receive the flag. Vice President Boonmars affirmed KKU’s readiness to mobilise regional research and technological innovation to elevate the quality of life for persons with disabilities in an ever-evolving global landscape.
The participation of the Office of Academic Service at NCPD 2026 underscores Khon Kaen University’s strategic alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By deploying life-changing innovations to reduce inequality (SDG 10) and promoting environmental stewardship through circular economy practices (SDG 12), KKU continues to foster an inclusive, resilient, and equitable society.
