Khon Kaen University

SDG Alignment for Bachelor of Communication Arts

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Bachelor of Communication Arts (International Program) at Khon Kaen University is strategically designed to cultivate professionals who are not only adept in the global media landscape but are also deeply committed to ethical and sustainable practices. The program's philosophy, centered on producing creative, work-ready graduates who can respond to societal development, aligns powerfully with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The curriculum is a strong proponent of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), particularly through its Creative Media Technology major, which fosters skills in digital innovation essential for the creative economy. Core courses on ethics, strategic communication, and critical thinking directly support SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by promoting public access to information and media accountability. Furthermore, the program's emphasis on cultural diversity and global media prepares students to navigate and bridge cultural divides, contributing to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). As a comprehensive higher education program that integrates professional experience through internships and cooperative education, it is a clear embodiment of SDG 4 (Quality Education), equipping graduates with the 21st-century skills needed to foster a more sustainable and informed global society.

Best Practices

        Bachelor of Communication Arts program at the International College, Khon Kaen University, advances hands-on learning aligned with sustainable development. Students get to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application through three main projects in the media and creative industries.
        The first project, Theatre and Stage Production 2024, within the course IC223004 Creative Media Technology. Third-year students gain hands-on experience throughout the entire theatre production process, from preparation between October 1 to December 6, 2024. The real performances took place on December 7-8, 2024, at the FA Theatre, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts. This event attracted over 500 attendees, including students and external guests. Students learned to manage both front-of-house and backstage operations such from lighting, sound, set design to performance. They also gained teamwork, creativity and effective problem-solving skills.
        The second project, Dentsu ALPHA Gen 3: Transformation DNA 2025, created a bridge between education and the digital industry. 5 third-year Communication Arts students and 2 lecturers joined a four-day bootcamp with experts in digital marketing communication and digital industries from June 24-27, 2025, at Krungsri Riverside Office, Bangkok. The project culminated in a pitching presentation on July 25, 2025. Students received training in hard skills such as Digital Marketing, Data Analytics, and Creative Strategy, as well as soft skills in teamwork, communication, and presentation.
        The third project, CA Showcase 2025, for the Professional Image Management Course. It was held on May 20-21, 2025, at Social Space, 2nd floor, Integrated Learning and Skills Development Building.
        It was an exhibition where students presented their projects in professional image management, strategic communication, and creative works in communication arts. Professors and industry experts provide feedback and evaluations, with awards for outstanding work. This promotes both academic and professional growth.
        Together, the three projects helped students develop essential professional skills required for today's media and creative industries. They learned how to apply theoretical knowledge to real practice, build networks with experts and leading organizations, and explore diverse career paths. Meanwhile for lecturers, it served as a guide to improve curricula to align with the labor market needs.
        The International College has strengthened national recognition through engagements with organizations and communities inside and outside the university.
        These three projects clearly align with SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting quality education through learning experiences that develop life and professional skills for real work, addressing 21st century skills and workforce readiness as targeted in sub-goal 4.4, which focuses on increasing the number of youth and adults with relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
        They also support SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by helping students to explore professional skills in high-potential creative and digital industries, enhancing employment opportunities and sustainable economic value creation as emphasized in sub-goal 8.6, which aims to reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training.
        Finally, these projects contribute to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration between educational institutions and leading private industries, professional experts, and communities inside and outside the university, establishing a sustainable learning ecosystem that meets long-term human resource development needs, according to sub-goal 17.17 which promotes effective cooperation between public, private, and civil society sectors.