KHON KAEN — 23 June 2026, First-year students at Khon Kaen University (KKU) were left surprised and delighted when the university rector took on the role of an EDM DJ during a welcome orientation event for new students.
Freshmen from all 22 faculties gathered at the Kanchanaphisek Convention Hall for the university’s annual orientation program, “Welcome KKU Freshmen 2026,” welcoming the institution’s 63rd undergraduate class.
Before entering the hall, new students walked beneath a wooden arch made from logs, a symbol associated with Khon Kaen Province, while senior students from every faculty greeted them warmly.
The event began with welcome performances by senior students before reaching its main highlight. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Phanthongviriyakul, Rector of Khon Kaen University, appeared as “DJ Ploemjai,” mixing contemporary music and leading university executives in an aerobic dance session alongside the freshmen.
The atmosphere was lively and energetic, but the biggest surprise came during the introduction of the university’s executive team, presented in an EDM music and dance show. The performance quickly drew students from their seats as they sang and danced along to the music.
Later, the rector congratulated the new students and shared words of encouragement centered on four key concepts they would encounter during their years at KKU: change, growth, challenge, and overcoming obstacles.
“Khon Kaen University is proud to welcome all of you as our newest members,” he said. “During the next four to six years, the university has prepared academic programs, activities, sports, and support systems to help you develop into well-rounded graduates.”
He encouraged students to use their university years to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new experiences.
According to the rector, change means having the courage to face unfamiliar situations and make decisions that may once have seemed difficult. Growth comes from doing things never attempted before. Challenge involves confronting academic and extracurricular obstacles that may appear impossible. Finally, overcoming means moving beyond fear and failure.
“True ability is not talent,” he said. “It is the result of overcoming obstacles repeatedly until success is achieved.”
The orientation concluded with a performance by the renowned Isan Bantheungsilp molam troupe, providing an entertaining and culturally distinctive welcome for the university’s newest students.
