The annual tribute recognised the dedication of retiring academic and support staff while fostering lifelong connections and well-being after service.
Khon Kaen University (KKU) hosted its annual “Bai Sri Su Kwan” retirement ceremony for 2026 to express its gratitude to, and honour, 247 retiring personnel. In a warm and appreciative atmosphere, the event recognised both academic and support staff for their dedicated service to the institution and offered encouragement for a fulfilling life after retirement.
Staged on 30 September 2026, from 12:29 to 15:29, at the Golden Jubilee Convention Centre, Khon Kaen University, the ceremony honoured 247 retirees – 46 academic staff and 201 support staff – for their unwavering commitment and continuous contributions to the university. Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, President of Khon Kaen University, presided, joined by university executives, faculty members, staff, and Assistant Professor Anan Hiransalee, President of the Khon Kaen University Senior Staff Club.
In his address, Associate Professor Panthongviriyakul expressed his deep gratitude to the retirees for their long-standing service to the university, society, and the nation. Through their knowledge, energy, and wisdom, he said, they had contributed significantly to the advancement of Khon Kaen University in every dimension. He stressed that although their formal duties had concluded, they would remain valued members of the KKU community, and expressed hope that they would return to share their wealth of experience with younger generations.
Assistant Professor Anan Hiransalee, speaking on behalf of the Khon Kaen University Senior Staff Club, congratulated the retirees and offered advice on adapting to life after retirement. Now in his 13th year of welcoming new retirees, he commended their sacrifices and urged them to look after their physical and mental health by staying active, taking part in social activities, and remaining engaged with the community. He explained that the university had established the Senior Staff Club to show that retired personnel remain a valuable resource, and invited all new retirees to join its activities and continue supporting university affairs.
Representing the retiring academic staff, Assistant Professor Araya Chaoruangrit, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Technology, reflected on her long association with the institution, which began when she enrolled as a student in 1985 and continued when she joined the academic staff in 1993. Over more than three decades, she said, the university had given her knowledge, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment. She thanked KKU for its comprehensive care for staff, from living conditions and healthcare at Srinagarind Hospital to financial planning provided by the Human Resources Division, affirming that retirees remain proud to support the university’s future endeavours.
Speaking on behalf of the 201 retiring support staff, Mrs Benjamas Saensaeng – a former nurse at Srinagarind Hospital and staff member at the Queen Sirikit Heart Centre, with 39 years of government service and a 43-year association with KKU – described the university as a home that had nurtured her professional growth. She expressed pride in contributing to KKU’s role as the intellectual centre of the North-Eastern region and the Greater Mekong Subregion, adding that all retirees stand ready to offer their expertise to the university in the years ahead.
The annual “Bai Sri Su Kwan” ceremony is an expression of institutional gratitude, honouring those who have served with dedication while reinforcing the enduring bond between Khon Kaen University and its retired personnel.
News / Photos: Communications Division, Khon Kaen University
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