Bangkok, October 24, 2025 — The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) celebrated a day of purpose and partnership as it hosted the W.K. Ho Research and Academic Scholarship Award Ceremony, held in honor of what would have been the 101st birthday of its founding father, Mr. W.K. Ho, a visionary whose legacy continues to inspire the gemological community.
In his heartfelt opening remarks, Mr. Kennedy Ho, Chairman of AIGS, paid tribute to his father’s enduring philosophy of generosity and education.
“My father always reminded us to give back — to the community, to the industry, and to the country,” he said. “He believed that young people are our future, and it is our duty to support their journey with opportunity and guidance.”
The ceremony brought together distinguished guests from the Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University (KU), including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanchai Pluempanupat, Dean of the Faculty of Science, along with the Deputy Dean, advisors, and students. The atmosphere was one of warmth, academic curiosity, and shared purpose, a reflection of both institutions’ mutual commitment to advancing scientific research and gemological education in Thailand.
Founded in 1943, Kasetsart University is one of Thailand’s most prestigious public universities, renowned for its excellence in agricultural science, natural resources, and applied sciences. The university has long been recognized for fostering innovation and conducting research that contribute to Thailand’s sustainable development, making it a fitting partner for AIGS, whose mission strongly aligns with the pursuit of academic excellence and knowledge sharing.
As part of the program, Chairman Ho personally guided the KU delegation through key facilities at AIGS, including the Gemstone Sample Room, the AIGS Laboratory, and the Machine Room, offering firsthand insights into the institute’s educational approach and state-of-the-art gemological technology.
The event culminated in a gift presentation ceremony, symbolizing friendship and the beginning of deeper academic collaboration between AIGS and Kasetsart University. Following the formal proceedings, Mrs. Erika Yu Ya, representing AIGS, extended a warm gesture by leading the KU team on a tour of the Jewelry Trade Center, a hub of Bangkok’s thriving gem and jewelry industry.
This special day stood as both a tribute to the legacy of Mr. W.K. Ho and a testament to AIGS’s enduring mission to educate, inspire, and connect generations of gemologists under the timeless principle of giving back to society.
Event Overview
The ceremony marked the collaboration between the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) and the Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, recognizing outstanding students through the W.K. Ho Research and Academic Scholarship. The initiative reinforces both institutions’ shared dedication to promoting excellence in gemological research and education in Thailand.
Participants from AIGS
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Mr. Kennedy Ho – Chairman, Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS)
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Ms. Benyaphat Chatchonbut – General Manager, AIGS
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Ms. Erika @ Kyi Sin Yu Ya – Head of Communication, AIGS
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Ms. Noi Phakamon – Senior Secretary, Chairman’s Office
Participants from Kasetsart University (KU)
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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanchai Pluempanupat – Dean, Faculty of Science, KU
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Professor Emeritus Dr. Monchan Meketon – Distinguished Professor, Faculty of Science, KU
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Asst. Prof. Dr. Somruedee Sakkaravej – Deputy Dean for Academic Services and Social Mission, Faculty of Science, KU
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Asst. Prof. Dr. Natthapong Monarumit – Lecturer, Department of Earth Science, Faculty of Science, KU
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Asst. Prof. Dr. Wiwat Wongkokua – Lecturer, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, KU
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Asst. Prof. Dr. Supakit Achiwawanich – Lecturer, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, KU
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Mr. Rattapan Trongwiwat – Head of International Relations and Global Affairs Division, Faculty of Science, KU
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Mr. Witawat Hongtrakul – Administrative Officer, Faculty of Science, KU
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Mr. Narudet Detkhunthod – Administrative Officer, Faculty of Science, KU
