Chonburi, Thailand – July 10th, 2026
Chonburi Central Prison on Friday opened the eighth batch of the royal initiative training program “Kok Nong Na of Kindness and Hope,” organized by the Department of Corrections, wanting to equip inmates with practical agricultural skills and prepare them for a self-sufficient life after release.
Mr. Chaiporn Paephiramrat, Deputy Governor of Chonburi Province, led the opening ceremony. He was joined by the Commander of Chonburi Central Prison, the Chief District Officer of Ban Bueng, representatives from Khlong Kio Police Station, prison officials, vocational instructors, and participating inmates.
The program is conducted under the royal benevolence of His Royal Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. It applies the principles of His Late Royal Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s “New Theory Agriculture,” adapting them to develop inmates’ capabilities so they can become self-reliant upon completing their sentences.
Training is supported by expert lecturers from the natural farming network, along with local government and private sector partners, who share knowledge and real-world experience. This is a strong integrated effort to create tangible opportunities and develop the potential of inmates.
The curriculum focuses on achieving food security and sustainable livelihoods through the “Kok Nong Na” land management model which integrates mounds (kok), ponds (nong), and fields (na). This is combined with the planting of three types of trees: fruit trees, timber trees for construction, and firewood trees. The approach is designed to deliver four key benefits: enough to eat, enough to use, enough to live, and sufficient shade and cooling.
During the ceremony, the Deputy Governor encouraged participants to study diligently and apply the knowledge in their daily lives. He urged them to reduce expenses, increase income, and improve their quality of life after release, while adhering to the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy. He expressed the importance of becoming good citizens, avoiding recidivism, and remaining grateful for the royal grace extended to them, so they can contribute positively to the nation in the future.
The “Kok Nong Na of Kindness and Hope” project is part of ongoing efforts by Thai corrections authorities to rehabilitate inmates through practical, nature-based vocational training aligned with royal initiatives.
