Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences has been named an Outstanding Organisation for Youth and Social Development in recognition of its leadership in promoting gender equality and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 5.
On 16 September 2026, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Khon Kaen University, alongside its Gender Studies Centre, received the ‘Outstanding Organisation Serving Children and Youth (Social Development)’ award at the 2026 Khon Kaen Provincial National Youth Day Ceremony, held at the Charoen Thani Hotel in Khon Kaen. Mr Prachuab Rakphaet, Vice Governor of Khon Kaen Province, presided over the ceremony and presented the honorary plaque to Assistant Professor Marasri Sothip, PhD, Associate Dean for Student Development and Corporate Communications, who accepted it on the faculty’s behalf.
The recognition reflects the faculty’s long-standing dedication to applying knowledge from the humanities and social sciences to build a society rooted in mutual respect, diversity, and equality. As a key hub within the faculty, the Gender Studies Centre plays an essential role in advancing gender studies and equality through academic research, knowledge dissemination, and active collaborative networks with internal and external partners.
A prominent example of this commitment is the annual ‘Isaan Pride’ event, a major platform connecting the higher education sector, youth groups, and gender-diversity networks. Through this flagship initiative, the faculty helps drive the implementation of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5: Gender Equality) across Khon Kaen University and the broader region.
Beyond offering a platform for creative self-expression, the faculty prioritises creating a ‘safe space’ that promotes human rights and dignity while dismantling gender-based prejudice and discrimination. Starting on campus, the initiative engages children and youth across Northeastern Thailand in participatory learning, turning academic expertise into a constructive force for social understanding and lasting institutional change.
Associate Professor Orathai Piayura, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, said that the faculty remains committed to using academic knowledge for societal benefit, particularly in promoting mutual understanding, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.
‘We firmly believe that building an equitable society begins by creating open spaces where every individual can learn, participate, and have their human dignity respected. This award serves as vital encouragement for our faculty to continue advancing SDG 5 and generating positive, sustainable impacts for society,’ Associate Professor Piayura added.
The 2026 Khon Kaen Provincial Outstanding Organisation Award underscores the faculty’s success in drawing on its academic capabilities to address pressing social challenges and widen opportunities for young people. By equipping the next generation to thrive in an inclusive environment, Khon Kaen University continues to make higher education a powerful driver of social progress, ensuring that equality and human dignity remain fundamental pillars of sustainable development.
