On 5 November 2025, Khon Kaen University (KKU), in collaboration with governmental and private sector agencies, held the opening ceremony for the “Sithan International Festival 2025: Boon Somma Bucha Nak.” This year’s event was held under the theme “Sithan Navadhara Himalayan – River, Blood, and Lineage.”

          The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the University Council, joined by Mr. Charin Thongsuk, Governor of Khon Kaen Province, and Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University. Also in attendance were university executives, representatives from five partner countries (Thailand, China, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam), faculty members, students, and a large crowd of members of the public, many of whom were elegantly dressed in traditional Thai fabrics. The event took place at the Naga Plaza, Sithan Lake, Khon Kaen University.

          Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman of the University Council, stated that the Sithan Festival has been a crucial annual activity for the university since 2015, marking nearly its ten-year anniversary. This year, the festival was elevated to an international level under a concept that links the waterways and faith from the Himalayas to Sithan.

         “Organising this event integrates art and culture with the traditional Loy Krathong festival, encompassing both the dimension of traditional cultural value and the awareness of responsibility towards natural resources and the environment. This event is vital for connecting countries in the same river basin, fostering mutual support for shared, sustainable prosperity,” said Dr. Narongchai.

          The programme began at 16:30 hrs with a magnificent procession of krathongs and grand krathong floats from 16 faculties, including Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University, parading along Sithan Road to the delight of onlookers.

          The Faculty of Technology at Khon Kaen University made its mark at this year’s Loy Krathong Festival, earning an Honorable Mention in the Grand Krathong Float Competition (Creativity Category). Led by Dr. Thanawat Tanapornsin, advisor to the Faculty of Technology Student Club, the faculty delegation included Mr. Songkrod Pimpankul, Senior Educational Academic Officer, Ms. Onsri Kaewsiri from the Infrastructure and Landscape Unit, along with student club representatives and students who participated in the parade procession with great enthusiasm. This strong showing reflects the Faculty of Technology’s commitment to preserving cultural traditions and fostering unity within the university community.

news: Miss Kanok-on Neera, International Relations Officer

Photos: Supat Boonkeaw and Khon Kaen University