Have you ever wondered how academic institutions elevate their global standing and forge meaningful international partnerships? The recent participation of Khon Kaen University’s College of Local Administration at a prestigious global conference offers a compelling glimpse into this strategic process.
COLA KKU Joins NASPAA Global Conference 2025 for International Academic Excellence
Executives from the College of Local Administration (COLA), Khon Kaen University, recently attended the NASPAA Global Conference 2025 during October 6–11, 2025. Meanwhile, this significant event was organized by the Network of Public Policy, Public Affairs, and Public Administration (NASPAA) in collaboration with Northern Arizona University in Arizona, USA.
Building on New NASPAA Membership
This global conference followed COLA’s official membership in NASPAA — a worldwide network dedicated to setting and promoting academic standards and accreditation in public policy, public affairs, and public administration education. As a result, the conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange on current and emerging issues in the discipline, academic management, student development, and curriculum administration among deans, program chairs, and institutional leaders.
Furthermore, the event focused specifically on advancing programs toward NASPAA Accreditation, which is recognized as the international benchmark for excellence in public affairs education.
Strategic Partnerships with Leading US Institutions
During the conference, COLA’s executive team actively engaged in networking and partnership building with leading U.S. institutions, both existing partners and new collaborators. For example, they connected with several prestigious schools:
- Hatfield School of Government, Portland State University
- School of Public Affairs, Arizona State University
- School of Public Affairs, Northern Arizona University
- School of Public Policy, University of California – Riverside
- School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas
Future Plans for MPA Program Accreditation
Beyond gaining new insights and updates in the field, the conference also strengthened academic and executive-level networks among global public policy and administration institutions. Looking ahead, COLA plans to pursue NASPAA Accreditation for its Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program.
This strategic move will further enhance the program’s international recognition and foster global research collaboration. The initiative aligns perfectly with Khon Kaen University’s policy to promote international engagement and academic excellence, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to strengthening international academic partnerships.
The Global Impact of NASPAA Standards
The significance of NASPAA extends far beyond individual institutions. According to the Network of Public Policy, Public Affairs, and Public Administration, this organization sets the gold standard for public affairs education worldwide, ensuring programs meet rigorous quality benchmarks that prepare graduates for effective public service.
COLA’s participation in this global conference represents more than just networking—it’s a strategic investment in educational excellence that will benefit students, faculty, and the broader public administration community. By pursuing NASPAA accreditation for their MPA program, COLA is positioning itself among the world’s elite public administration education providers, ultimately strengthening Thailand’s capacity for effective governance and public service.
