On October 16, 2026, Nakhon Phanom University and the Provincial Education Office co-hosted the "Morning Coffee Forum Ep. 9," with the Governor of Nakhon Phanom presiding over the event. Held under the theme "Educational Innovation to the Mekong Lights of Faith," the forum successfully linked educational research with the region's iconic Illuminated Boat Festival.

Key highlights of the session included celebrating the festival’s international acclaim—winning two prestigious awards at the 2026 IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Competition in the USA (Gold for Best Nighttime Economy Event and Bronze for Best Promotional Poster)—as well as the official handover ceremony for the hosts of the upcoming session.

The event concluded with the handover of the host plaque for Morning Coffee Forum Ep. 10 to the Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Energy, ensuring continued inter-agency collaboration across Nakhon Phanom Province.

Ultimately, the forum not only strengthened organizational networks but also highlighted Nakhon Phanom University's vital role in integrating education and innovation with local cultural assets—preserving Mekong identity and driving sustainable regional growth.