Khon Kaen province, Thailand — The IFP Thailand Alumni Network (IFP THAN) organized its first public seminar, "Northeastern Local Community in Current Change of World Society" on August 15, 2009 at Khon Kaen University. IFP THAN’s institutional partner for the event was the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Khon Kaen University.

The primary aim of the seminar was to understand the evolution of Northeast of Thailand in light of the world events. It was also a timely opportunity to forge collaboration with other community organizations on sustainable development based on the Northeastern identity. Approximately 150 participants took part, including local community leaders, NGO networks, media, government officers, students, and academics. Activities included an exhibition prepared by IFP THAN members, individual works of IFP fellows, promotion of books and local community products, and academic discussion of thought-provoking issues related to the history, current development problems and solutions in the Northeastern region of Thailand.

The seminar provided public space to promote further dialogue and to expand networks among local communities, academics, NGOs, government sectors and IFP THAN. Similarly, it served as a stepping stone for members of IFP THAN to demonstrate their leadership and unwavering commitment to the region by using what they have learned in their respective graduate degree programs.