Khon Kaen University Probes Student Bullying Allegations

KHON KAEN — The Faculty of Engineering at Khon Kaen University (KKU) has initiated an investigation following a female student's allegations of prolonged bullying by her classmates, stating the experience has severely affected her mental health. The case has ignited widespread criticism on social media after the KKU student posted a detailed account of her experiences, claiming they had "ruined her life" and left her battling depression. In her post, the student alleged that she was bullied by almost the entire department. What began as personal dislike, she claimed, escalated into classmates pressuring her, gossiping behind her back, and insulting her to her face. The student also recounted instances where classmates mocked and taunted her after her father lost a finger in an accident, despite the incident leading to her receiving financial assistance from the faculty. She alleged that they treated her as though she were invisible. She further claimed that the bullying was not limited to verbal abuse but escalated into physical intimidation, including being deliberately bumped into. More recently, the department requested contributions from students towards a graduation celebration for senior students. Viewing the requested amount as too high, she stated she contributed 1,000 baht instead. Following this, she faced collective condemnation and was removed from the department’s group chat, which included every student in her major. Following her post, the case sparked a wave of criticism across social media. This prompted an opposing party, presumably some of the students accused, to issue a response. Regarding the group chat mentioned in the allegations, they stated they had reflected on and reviewed their actions. They admitted wrongdoing and apologized for collectively using harsh and inappropriate language, making sarcastic remarks, and removing her from the group chat. They acknowledged that their actions constituted bullying and apologized for being part of conduct that had caused serious damage to KKU’s reputation. They also said they would clarify every allegation at a later stage, adding that they had not previously responded publicly because they believed posting or reacting on social media was a double-edged sword and not a constructive solution. They said they initially chose to remain silent and not retaliate to avoid causing further harm to the student. In a statement issued at 18:52 on July 13, the Faculty of Engineering at Khon Kaen University said it was aware of the allegations circulating on social media and had already contacted the student to provide support. The faculty said it was conducting a thorough investigation based on the principles of accuracy, transparency, and fairness to all parties involved. It added that the university places importance on the physical and mental wellbeing, safety, and dignity of all students. If the investigation finds behavior that constitutes bullying or any other inappropriate misconduct, disciplinary action will be taken appropriately and fairly in accordance with university rules and regulations. The faculty also urged the public to refrain from speculation, sharing unverified information, or making comments that could affect the privacy and wellbeing of those involved while the investigation is ongoing, and asked that everyone respect the investigative process. It said the case would be used to review and strengthen measures aimed at fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment, while preventing similar incidents in the future.