Khon Kaen University demonstrates its commitment to social equity by presenting sustainable, community-driven products at Thailand’s premier national social development exhibition.

     The Office of Academic Service at Khon Kaen University (KKU) recently participated in the Social Development Expo 2026 (SDX 2026), Thailand’s largest social development fair. Held under the concept “Co-Creating a Better Society”, the showcase highlighted institutional efforts to foster an inclusive society through skill development and social devotion. Mr Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, presided over the official opening ceremony.

Led by Assoc. Prof. Chuchat Kamollerd, PhD, Director of the Office of Academic Service, the KKU delegation presented the achievements of the 2026 Skill Development and Occupational Enhancement Project for Persons with Disabilities in Khon Kaen Province. Supported by the Higher Education Network for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the initiative runs a comprehensive, four-stage incubation model spanning more than 450 hours of training. Its stages move participants through foundational preparation, skill development, practical experience, and long-term sustainability enhancement.

     The project successfully incubated four distinct product brands crafted by persons with disabilities, combining quality craftsmanship with local identity:

• Kaen Jai: Elegant traditional fabric handicrafts from Sila Subdistrict Municipality, including loincloth fabric bags, neck pillows, and eyeglass cases.
• Hug Sila: Lifestyle products fashioned from local textiles, featuring cloth bags and keychains.
• Koon Daeng Yai: Souvenirs made from fabric remnants, highlighting upcycling principles under a zero-waste concept.
• Dong D Dong: Processed food products, including seasoned fried chili mushroom paste and crispy mushroom snacks.

The project delivered tangible benefits, raising participants’ professional capabilities by an average of 50 per cent. Its impact went beyond income: the initiative eased family financial burdens, bolstered self-confidence, and restored personal dignity, empowering individuals with disabilities to participate in society with pride.

Furthermore, the success of these four brands aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across several key areas:

• SDG 1 and SDG 8 (No Poverty and Decent Work and Economic Growth): Generating stable income and enhancing quality of life for vulnerable groups.
• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Providing lifelong learning opportunities through tailored occupational incubator programmes.
• SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Creating inclusive platforms that recognise the potential of persons with disabilities.
• SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): Promoting environmental sustainability through zero-waste upcycling under the “Koon Daeng Yai” brand.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Building multi-sectoral collaboration between KKU, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and local communities.

  Khon Kaen University remains committed to its ethos of “Social Devotion”, using academic services and institutional knowledge to reduce social inequality and expand opportunities. The KKU exhibition received enthusiastic public engagement, generating direct product sales of more than 6,000 Baht along with numerous follow-up orders and online support from attendees.