Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, KKU, Signs MOU with The Hacker Exchange (HEX), Australia to Strengthen Collaboration in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Suntaree Buchitchon, Dean, participated in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony with The Hacker Exchange Pty Ltd (HEX), Australia. The MOU was signed by Ms. Jaclyn Benstead, Co-founder of HEX, representing the Australian side. The ceremony took place at Club Siam, Glowfish, Bangkok, on 4 December 2025.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wullapa Wongsinlatam, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, on behalf of KKU, and Ms. Jeanette Cheah, CEO & Co-founder of HEX, as the witness for HEX. The collaboration was coordinated by Dr. Angsu-orn Na Nongkhai.

This MOU aims to enhance academic collaboration in innovation, curriculum development, and entrepreneurial skill-building for the next generation. The partnership includes joint curriculum development, student and staff mobility programs, academic and innovation-focused activities, as well as opportunities for students to engage with Australia’s startup ecosystem and international innovation networks.

The collaboration will encompass guest lectures, seminars, workshops, training programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, participation in startup community activities in Australia, experiential learning activities, and international study visits—ultimately advancing students’ competencies in innovation and digital skills.

Following the signing ceremony, the KKU delegation joined the HEX Official Launch into Thailand with Austrade, where they attended international startup pitching sessions showcasing the creativity and potential of young entrepreneurs from diverse networks.

The event featured an expert judging panel, including:

·       Ms. Jeanette Cheah, CEO & Co-founder, HEX

·       Ms. Amelia Walsh, Senior Trade & Investment Commissioner to Thailand & Laos, Austrade

·       Mr. Kard Pongsakorn Chanchaisrisakul, VP, Head of Organisation & Talent Development, Lazada

This MOU marks an important milestone for the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, in strengthening international partnerships and fostering future-ready skills, ensuring that students and staff are well-equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving global innovation landscape.