The three-day event showcases smart innovations for a sustainable future while bringing together thousands of students across the region to demonstrate scientific talents.

On 17 August 2026, the Faculty of Science at Khon Kaen University officially opened the National Science Week (Regional Level) 2026. Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, presided over the opening ceremony, with Asst. Prof. Angkana Boonyued, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Science, presenting the event report. Executive administrators, faculty members, staff, distinguished guests, and more than 2,810 students representing 251 schools from across the Northeastern region attended the ceremony at Wittayawiphas 1 Hall, Wittayawiphas Building, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University. 

Asst. Prof. Angkana Boonyued, Ph.D., emphasised the significance and overarching vision of the event. She noted that amid rapid global change, where science and technology play a vital role in driving economic and social development, the Faculty of Science organised the event in collaboration with the Science Society of Thailand under the Patronage of His Majesty the King, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), and partner networks. The event honours His Majesty King Mongkut (Rama IV), the “Father of Thai Science”, and pays tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX) as the “Father of Thai Technology” and “Father of Thai Innovation”, as well as to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother for her royal contributions as the “Mother of Biodiversity Protection” and “Mother of Thai Crafts and Thai Silk Conservation”.

“This year, we have received an overwhelming response from youth across the region, with over 1,400 teams—comprising more than 2,810 participants from 251 schools—registering for competitions in advance,” said the Dean of the Faculty of Science. “This aligns with previous records drawing between 37,000 and 43,000 visitors, demonstrating that this event serves as an essential platform to disseminate research and innovations, inspire young minds to apply science to daily life, and enable staff and students to engage in social contribution. With over 31 participating agencies hosting exhibitions, it provides a valuable opportunity to build a robust scientific learning network for our youth.”

Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, remarked that the world is undergoing transformative shifts, including rapid developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and climate change challenges. Consequently, science and technology extend far beyond the laboratory, serving as key drivers to solve national and global issues while sustainably improving the public’s quality of life.

“I commend the Faculty of Science at Khon Kaen University for integrating knowledge and organizing activities aligned with future global trends,” stated the President. “This event creates a vital learning ecosystem that sparks creativity, inspires youth and the public, fosters critical thinking skills, and prepares young minds to become future innovators capable of creating societal solutions.”

• Running from 17 to 19 August 2026, the event features key highlights and activities across three days:

  • Invention Contest using Waste Materials: A competition focused on applying scientific knowledge to add value to recycled materials, fostering concrete concepts of sustainability and the circular economy.
  • Science Communication Competition (“Science Sa-on”): A soft-skill development activity designed to train young participants in translating complex scientific concepts into engaging, easily understood stories through digital media.
  • Three New Exhibitions at the Natural History Museum and Lifelong Learning Centre:
    • Prehistoric World: An exploration of the mysteries of the prehistoric era through geological evidence and fossils.
    • Quantum Quest: A hands-on introduction that demystifies quantum science.
    • Logical Park: A learning zone featuring games and puzzles to cultivate logical thinking skills for all age groups.
  • Academic and Entertainment Highlights: Interactive science shows hosted four times daily.
  • Partner Network Collaborations: Displays and demonstrations of technology and innovation hosted by over 10 external partner agencies throughout the three days.

   

Interested individuals can follow event updates and view photo coverage on official Facebook pages at KKU Science Week (https://www.facebook.com/KKUScienceWeek), the Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University (https://www.facebook.com/SCiKKU), and the official portal at https://sc.kku.ac.th/scweek/competition/index.php.