On April 28, 2025, Khon Kaen University International College (KKUIC), led by Asst. Prof. Sirimonbhorn Thipsingh, Dean of KKUIC and Asst. Prof. Saksuriya Traiyarach, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Education and Innovation. Together with Mr. Benoit Nadeau, Assistant Dean for Special Affairs and International Collaborations, Asst. Prof. Khwanjira Ponsree, Assistant Dean for Creative Marketing Communication and Organizational Image, and Mr. Nathakorn Loedphacharakamon, Division Chair of Innovation for Academic Service and External Collaboration, welcomed Prof. Bob Doherty, Dean of the School for Business and Society from the University of York, UK, for a visit at KKUIC for the ongoing process of signing a partnership agreement before delivering his keynote address at the 2nd Global Funding Initiative Conference at Sirikunakorn Building, Khon Kaen University.
The morning began with the presentation of KKUIC led by Mr. Benoit Nadeau, Assistant Dean for Special Affairs and International Collaborations on their comprehensive overviews of academic programs and strategic initiatives before the signing of an Ongoing Progression Agreement for 4+1 Collaboration took place. The agreement formalizes a collaboration that will allow students who successfully complete designated programs at KKUIC to progress to York’s master’s programs. Upon successful completion of their studies at York, these students will receive an award from the University of York.
“This agreement creates valuable international pathways for our students while maintaining the academic standards of both institutions,” said Asst. Prof. Sirimonbhorn Thipsingh, Dean of KKUIC.
After that, KKUIC’s 3rd-year business students had a chance to explore the insights shared by Prof. Bob on study programs, facilities, and university life in the School for Business and Society, University of York. We believe this collaboration will reinforce KKU’s internationalization goals and create opportunities for future academic and research partnerships. Students interested in the progression pathway can contact KKUIC’s International Relations Office.
Following the signing ceremony and lunch, Professor Doherty took center stage at the 2nd Global Funding Initiative Conference held at the Sirikunakorn Building, Khon Kaen University. As the principal investigator of FixOurFood, Professor Doherty delivered a compelling keynote speech titled “Securing Grants for Sustainability: Strategies and Best Practices.“ The conference began with welcoming remarks from Associate Assoc. Prof. Chanchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, and Prof. Pewpan Maleewong, M.D., Vice President for Research, who delivered the report address.
About KKUIC
Khon Kaen University International College is an English-language interdisciplinary institution that is part of Khon Kaen University, a leader in Northeastern region of Thailand’s higher education.
website: www.ic.kku.ac.th
About the School for Business and Society, University of York
The School for Business and Society at the University of York is renowned for its research and teaching in sustainable business practices, social policy, and global business management.
website: www.york.ac.uk/business-society
