Khon Kaen University

SDG Alignment for Bachelor of Science Program in Agriculture

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program is intrinsically designed to address the multifaceted challenges of sustainable development. The curriculum's philosophy is rooted in producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable in modern agricultural sciences but also possess an entrepreneurial mindset, teamwork skills, and the ability to adapt to a changing global context. This holistic approach ensures a strong alignment with multiple SDGs. The program directly tackles food security and sustainable farming practices (SDG 2), responsible management of natural resources like soil, water, and biodiversity (SDG 6, SDG 14, SDG 15), and promotes climate-resilient agriculture (SDG 13). Furthermore, by emphasizing modern agricultural business, technology, and innovation (SDG 8, SDG 9), and focusing on knowledge transfer and community development (SDG 1, SDG 4, SDG 17), the curriculum prepares graduates to be key agents in creating a sustainable, food-secure, and economically vibrant future for communities in Thailand and beyond.

        Khon Kaen University has taken the lead in enhancing the agricultural sector's sustainability through its Bachelor of Science Program in Agriculture (Revised Curriculum, 2022). This curriculum is tailored to address global challenges, including climate change, food security, and the transition to a Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy. The program is designed around the principles of Outcome-Based Education (OBE), which means it focuses on developing graduates as agricultural entrepreneurs in the modern world who can utilise technology and adapt to change. It intensively combines the importance of 21st-century knowledge and skills.
        The curriculum combines technology-focused courses—such as Geoinformatics, Experimental Planning and Agricultural Data Management, and Environmental Science Fundamentals, with professional subjects and Capstone projects that emphasise modern entrepreneurship in agribusiness. These elements enable students to be able to plan and manage modern farms systematically, taking into account both environmental and social impacts.
        The program produces graduates who can add value to the agriculture sector, reduce post-harvest losses, and use innovation in high-value economic agriculture. The result could lead to a positive impact on farmers’ quality of life and sustainable food security for the nation. Therefore, the activities in this curriculum clearly match with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are SDG 4: Quality Education (by developing future-oriented learning systems and analytical thinking skills), SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth (by preparing graduates to become high-value agricultural entrepreneurs), and SDG 2: Zero Hungry (by focusing on efficiency and managing the food production chain sustainably and with quality).

Best Practices

        As a leading institution in agricultural science in the Northeastern region, Khon Kaen University recognises the importance of developing agrarian scholars who possess strong academic knowledge and practical skills, as well as a commitment to sustainable agricultural development. Therefore, the Faculty of Agriculture has developed a curriculum that systematically integrates hands-on learning with academic theory in Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, particularly in AG 103 004 Ecology of Insects and Integrated Field Crop Production courses. These courses have offered learning activities that created meaningful impacts in multiple dimensions of sustainable development.
        In August 2025, the Faculty organised two key projects that closely connected teaching with community service and development. The first event was a field study on fisheries and the insect industry,which took place on 22 August 2025, at the Insect Industry Division, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University. This event provides the opportunity for 28 students and teachers from Ban Na Lom School, Phra Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, to explore topics such as “Larvae, Insects, and Butterflies." The Manager of the Insect Industry Division, Dr Chutinan Chusai led educational sessions covering insect ecology, the role of insects within agricultural ecosystems, and the promising economic potential of the insect industry. A colouring activity was also organized to foster students' understanding and imagination about biology. The objective of these activities was to equip students with knowledge and experiences they can apply in their learning and everyday lives.
        The second project was conducted on 18 August 2025. It involved 50 fourth-year undergraduate students who participated in an in-depth analysis of a specific area and worked on a cropping system exercise as part of their Integrated Field Crop Production course. The student conducted field research in Ban Hin Lat, located in the Ban Kho Subdistrict of Mueang Khon Kaen District. They analysed the agricultural land, interviewed local farmers, studied the requirements for different crops, and identified the factors that help or hinder successful economic crop production. This hands-on experience helped students sharpen their skills as agricultural professionals, enhancing their abilities in data analysis, communication, and providing practical advice to farmers.
        The tangible results of these initiatives include inspiring secondary students from Ban Na Lom to gain a deeper understanding of agricultural and biological sciences. The students are developing a greater awareness of the ecological roles that insects play, along with an appreciation for the insect industry as a viable source of income and employment opportunities. At the same time, undergraduate students improved their ability to conduct systematic analyses of agricultural land. They gained valuable insights into the actual needs and challenges faced by farmers, while also enhancing their communication and teamwork skills. As a result, they were able to confidently propose development strategies for field crop production that are specifically tailored to the local context. Local farmers in Ban Hin Lat gained significant benefits from academic guidance and knowledge exchange with experts. They received practical information that is valuable in supporting their agricultural development efforts.
        On a large scale, these projects established an essential partnership among Khon Kaen University, schools in remote areas, and the local farming community to promote sustainable agricultural development. They also support fundamental science and technology education to develop agricultural graduates who excel in their studies and are enthusiastic about serving their community. This enables the organised sharing of knowledge and technology with farmers and encourages eco-friendly farming practices by providing a more in depth understanding of insect ecology and sustainable resource management.
        These two projects are clearly aligned with three primary Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Firstly, SDG 4: Quality Education. This goal provides high-quality education and lifelong learning opportunities to secondary school students, university students, and community farmers through practical learning experiences, the sharing of expert knowledge, and fostering exchanges between institutions and communities. This also impacts THE Impact Rankings Indicator, which includes “Pedagogical commitment,” “Lifelong learning measures,” and “Outreach and education programmes.” These are the things that highlight quality education and foster access to educational opportunities. Secondly, SDG 2: Zero Hunger focuses on enhancing knowledge and skills in integrated field crop production, which includes analysing detailed area and cropping systems, as well as sharing knowledge about the role of insect ecology in food production. Additionally, leveraging the insect industry as an alternative protein source is crucial for food security, sustaining agricultural productivity, and improving nutrition. This goal aligns with several indicators, including “Research on hunger,” “Student hunger,” and “Sustainable food systems.” Finally, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals focuses on building collaboration among Khon Kaen University, Ban Na Lom School, and Ban Hin Lat farming communities. The objective of this joint is to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and collectively promote sustainable agriculture. The indicator alignments are “Relationship to support the goals,” “Education for the SDGs,” and “Cross-sector collaboration,” highlighting the importance of partnership and education for sustainable development.
        Additionally, the activities above also align with SDG 15: Life on Land, as they raise awareness about insect biodiversity, highlight their ecological roles, and promote sustainable management of natural resources.
        The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program at Khon Kaen University is a unique mix of teaching, research, and service to the community. What really sets it apart is its focus on making a real impact in sustainable agriculture, food security, and the well-being of farmers in Northeastern Thailand. The program is committed to equipping students with solid knowledge and practical skills, while also instilling a strong dedication to social and environmental sustainability. By fostering partnerships with local communities and educational institutions, Khon Kaen University is actively working to drive sustainable development both locally and regionally.