In remembrance of the "Father of Thai Science," the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, held a ceremony to pay homage and officially opened the 2026 Science Week.

On August 18, 2026, the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies at Khon Kaen University organized a traditional floral tribute (Phan Phum) ceremony to honor His Majesty King Mongkut (King Rama IV). The event was held to mark National Science Day 2026 and to commemorate the King’s immense grace and genius as the "Father of Thai Science."

The prestigious ceremony took place at the Multipurpose Room NK2217, Lecture and Laboratory Building 1. Assistant Professor Dr. Suntaree Buchitchon, Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, presided over the ceremony. She led a gathering of faculty executives, lecturers, staff, the Director of the Demonstration School of Khon Kaen University (Nong Khai Campus), and students, who all attended in unison.

During the event, the presiding officer lit incense and candles and offered the royal floral tribute before the portrait of King Rama IV. She then delivered a royal eulogy to honor His Majesty’s extraordinary profound abilities in science and astronomy. Historically, King Mongkut accurately predicted the occurrence of a total solar eclipse at Wa Ko, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, on August 18, 1868, two years in advance. This historic milestone brought international recognition to his scientific prowess and led to the designation of August 18 as Thailand's "National Science Day" every year.

This commemorative ceremony was part of the 9th Regional National Science Week and the 21st Academic Week of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, which runs from August 18 to 20, 2026. The main objectives of these events are to pay homage to His Majesty King Mongkut and to inspire Thai youth and society to recognize the crucial role that science and technology play in the sustainable development of the nation.

BY : AI Gemini