Khon Kaen, Thailand, 26 June 2026 – The Mekong Institute (MI) and Khon Kaen University’s (KKU) College of Local Administration (COLA) are helping Thailand’s public sector become smarter by introducing local government institutions to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital solutions. The workshop, “Smart Local Government: Enhancing Efficiency with AI and Vibe Coding,” gathered 50 participants from local government organizations, academic institutions, and partner agencies across Khon Kaen and neighboring provinces to explore practical applications of AI, workflow improvement methodologies, and digital innovation tools to enhance operational efficiency and deliver more responsive public services.
Held at MI’s Residential Training Center in Khon Kaen, the workshop was part of an action plan developed by Thai participants under a previous Lancang-Mekong Region training on AI-enabled digital transformation for cities and institutions. Implementing the workshop was an opportunity to translate knowledge gained through the regional training into practical action at the local level, demonstrating how regional cooperation can generate tangible outcomes for public institutions.
Ms. Guohua Liu, Director of MI’s Sectoral Development and Integration (SDI) Department, highlighted during the workshop’s opening program the importance of transforming regional knowledge into practical local action. “AI is no longer a technology reserved for specialists but has become an accessible tool that can help local governments improve productivity, simplify routine processes, and strengthen citizen-centered public services,” said Ms. Liu.
An expert in AI and digital transformation, COLA Assistant Professor Dr. Krisada Prachumrasee facilitated the workshop’s technical sessions, which adopted an interactive, hands-on, and collaborative approach to learning. Using swimlane diagrams and Mermaid Chart, participants conducted workflow analysis exercises to visualize and improve organizational processes. This highlighted the importance of redesigning workflows and strengthening operational efficiency as a foundation for successful digital transformation and AI adoption.
An introduction to the latest AI developments included emerging AI technologies, responsible AI adoption, digital immunity, cybersecurity awareness, and data governance in the public sector. This provided participants with a foundation for understanding both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with AI implementation.
A key session was on Vibe Coding, an emerging AI-assisted development approach that enables users to create digital applications using natural language prompts instead of conventional programming. Through live demonstrations and guided practice, participants experienced how AI can assist in generating application prototypes, automating repetitive administrative tasks, and accelerating digital solution development without requiring advanced coding expertise.
The workshop concluded with a hackathon, where participants worked in teams and used Vibe Coding to develop prototype solutions addressing real operational challenges within their organizations.
