IST Dean Joins Closing Ceremony of “Khlong Sok Junior Tour Guide” Project, Empowering Youth and Connecting Learning with Community Development
The International School of Tourism (IST), Suratthani Rajabhat University, continues to connect university learning with local communities through the Khlong Sok Junior Tour Guide Project, creating opportunities for both young people and university students to learn and develop through real-world experiences.
On 28 August 2026, Dr. Jeerati Pooneiad, Dean of the International School of Tourism (IST), Suratthani Rajabhat University, attended the closing ceremony of the “Khlong Sok Subdistrict Administrative Organization Junior Tour Guide Project for Fiscal Year 2026” and presented certificates to participating students at Khao Sok National Park, Phanom District, Surat Thani Province.
The project was implemented through collaboration among the Khlong Sok Subdistrict Administrative Organization, the International School of Tourism, the Khao Sok community tourism group, and partner organizations. It aimed to equip local children and young people with essential skills in tourism interpretation, English communication, public speaking, and confidence while strengthening their pride in their local community.
The project created a learning space not only for local youth, but also for IST students, who were able to learn directly from working with communities as mentors and activity facilitators.
Throughout the project, IST served as an academic mentor and advisor, while university students participated as mentors for the young learners. They shared knowledge and supported English communication practice through stories about Khao Sok, its tourism resources, local lifestyles and community identity. The activities encouraged young participants to confidently communicate the stories and values of their hometown.
At the same time, IST students gained practical experience in communication, activity planning, teamwork, adapting to different community contexts, and working collaboratively with local people. These experiences contributed to the development of their “Social Engineer” competencies through collaborative thinking, action and the creative development of activities that respond to community needs.
The initiative reflects IST's role in connecting “learning, students and communities” by integrating university knowledge with local natural, cultural and community assets. Real communities became learning environments where students could develop their professional and social competencies while young people strengthened their connection with and pride in their hometown.
The International School of Tourism extends its appreciation to the Khlong Sok Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Khao Sok community tourism group, Khao Sok National Park, Jungle Life Camp, Ban Bang Pru School, Ban Ya Plong School, Wat Tham Wararam School and Wat Song Phi Nong School, as well as all partner organizations for supporting the project and providing meaningful learning opportunities for children, young people and university students to grow together with the community.
“Developing People, Empowering Youth, Connecting the University with the Community”
SDG Report & Relevant Goals
This initiative contributes to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
| SDG Goal | Goal Description | Connection to the Initiative |
|---|---|---|
|
Goal 4: Quality Education |
Provides experiential learning opportunities for children, young people and university students while strengthening English communication, tourism interpretation, interpersonal and teamwork skills that support lifelong learning and future careers. |
|
Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth |
Strengthens tourism and service-related skills among young people and students, building foundations for future employment and contributing to the development of human resources for community-based tourism. |
|
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities |
Encourages young people to understand local stories, identity and community assets, strengthening pride in their hometown and promoting youth participation in community development. |
|
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals |
Demonstrates collaboration among local government, the university, communities, the national park, schools, tourism partners and other organizations to jointly develop young people, university students and the local community through shared knowledge and resources. |
