The School of Accountancy and Finance, Walailak University, continues to advance its academic service mission for community and local development by transferring knowledge in science, technology, and innovation to support the development of “Khao Kriap Wao,” a traditional Thai rice cracker made from the indigenous “Kab Dam” rice variety. The initiative aims to enhance the quality, cleanliness, safety, and local identity of the product while creating greater economic value for farmers and community entrepreneurs in the Pak Phanang River Basin, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.
The initiative is being implemented under the project “Creating Community Entrepreneurs for the Development of Identity-Based Products in the Pak Phanang Basin Using Indigenous Rice Varieties” (WUSE-2026). The project focuses on applying university knowledge in combination with local wisdom and resources to strengthen communities’ capacity in product development, value creation, and sustainable community entrepreneurship.
The project team from the School of Accountancy and Finance visited Khanab Nak Subdistrict, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, to purchase indigenous rice directly from local farmers. This activity forms part of the project’s efforts to support income generation and distribute economic benefits within the local community. The “Kab Dam” rice was subsequently used in collaboration with Ban Sai Ngod community, Sai Khao Subdistrict, Hua Sai District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, to develop a prototype of “Khao Kriap Wao” that reflects the distinctive identity of the Pak Phanang Basin.
On September 2, 2026, the project team returned to Ban Sai Ngod community to conduct the activity “Enhancing Knowledge on Production and Product Standards through Science, Technology, and Innovation.” The activity included demonstrations of the Khao Kriap Wao production process and the transfer of knowledge on raw material selection, production methods, quality control, and approaches to improving product standards for community members.
The activity also provided an opportunity for the project team and community members to exchange knowledge and practical experience regarding the production process. Together, they explored ways to improve the quality of “Khao Kriap Wao Kab Dam” in terms of cleanliness, safety, and production standards while preserving the unique identity of the local product. The initiative is expected to support further development into a marketable community product and generate sustainable income for local residents.
In addition to product development, the project has helped build and strengthen networks among rice farmers, Khao Kriap Wao producers, local communities, academics, and supporting partners. Through knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and collaboration throughout the value chain, the initiative provides an important foundation for community product development and the long-term strengthening of self-reliant community entrepreneurs.
This academic service initiative reflects the mission of the School of Accountancy and Finance, Walailak University, to apply academic knowledge and expertise for the benefit of society and local communities. By integrating modern knowledge with local wisdom, the School aims to enhance community products, expand economic opportunities, increase income, and contribute to stronger and more sustainable local communities.