On March 21, 2024, Khon Kaen University (KKU) President, Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, and Japan’s Kumamoto University (KU) President Dr. Hisao Ogawa, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)at KKU Sirikunakorn Building for the development of cooperation in academics, research, student exchange and training under 1) Agreement on Academic Exchange, and 2) Agreement on Student Exchange between their two universities.
“As the President of Khon Kaen University, I look forward to giving full support to make our collaboration fruitful and to the remarkable achievements and advancements that will emerge from these renewed agreements,” said KKU President.
“On behalf of the delegation from Kumamoto University, Japan, I am extremely pleased to meet with Khon Kaen University administrators and to jointly sign this academic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today. We focus on developing academics, technology, and medical innovations. Therefore, this signing represents a strong academic cooperation, and I would like to thank all faculties and organizations involved in driving the success of this endeavor,” said KU President.
The next session of the visit was the Kumamoto University Japan–Thailand Network Meeting at Bayasita Hotel, KKU. This meeting was honored by the presence of The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), and KU alumni from all over Thailand, and interested participants joined the meeting to discuss various topics such as academic and research collaboration, as well as the Double Degree Program.
“This meeting marks the 20th anniversary of the fruitful academic collaboration between Khon Kaen University and Kumamoto University. A key highlight of this collaboration is the successful implementation of the Double Degree Program between the Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, and the Graduate School of Medical Sciences at Kumamoto University,” reported Assoc. Prof. Kulthida Vaeteewoottacharn, Head of Biochemistry Department.
“This meeting is a platform for intellectual exchange, fostering discussions and collaborations. It offers a chance to engage with our esteemed speakers and forge new connections,” stated Assoc. Prof. Apichat Jiravuttipong, MD, Dean, KKU Faculty of Medicine.
The final session of the visit was the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Thailand (KUAT) Establishment Ceremony held at the Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel. The ceremony was honored by the presence of H.E. Mr. Sorut Sukthaworn, Ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. During the ceremony, there was a presentation on the history of exchanges between KU and educational institutions in Thailand, as well as a cultural exchange through Isan folk performances, which impressed all attendees.
“May this association serve as a platform for networking, knowledge–sharing, and professional development among Kumamoto University alumni in Thailand. I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations to all the members of the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Thailand. Your achievements and contributions a reflection of the excellence and dedication fostered by Kumamoto University,” said KKU President.
Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun
Editing by Prof. John F Smith