On November 1, 2024, exchange students from University of Health Sciences, Laos; Shimane University, Japan; and University of Puthisastra, Cambodia, celebrated the successful completion of their exchange program at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (KKU). This milestone reflects a meaningful step in fostering academic and cultural exchanges among students in the region.
One student from Laos shared, “The experience here at KKU has not only enriched my medical knowledge but also strengthened my appreciation for Thai culture and healthcare practices. I am inspired to take this knowledge back to support my community.”
A student from Japan remarked, “Studying at KKU has broadened my perspective on medical education and practice in Southeast Asia. The guidance from the faculty and the hands-on learning have been invaluable to my growth as a future healthcare professional.”
Reflecting on the journey, a Cambodian student stated, “This exchange has given me the opportunity to learn in an environment that values both tradition and innovation in medicine. The friendships and knowledge I gained here are something I’ll carry with me for life.”
The Faculty of Medicine at KKU is committed to advancing global partnerships and offering students diverse learning experiences that enhance both academic skills and cultural understanding.
Khon Kaen, Thailand – October 30-31, 2024 – The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (KKU) warmly welcomed Professor Hiroaki Kitagawa, M.D., Ph.D., President of St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Japan, for an official visit focused on expanding academic cooperation and exploring new avenues for joint research and student exchanges.
The visit began with Professor Kitagawa observing St. Marianna University medical students engaged in elective rotations at Srinagarind Hospital. Notably, Miss Akari Tsuchiya was supervised during her Emergency Medicine rotation, demonstrating the immersive learning environment at KKU. Professor Kitagawa was welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Pariwat Phungoen, Head of the Emergency Medicine Department, and Dr. Marturod Buranasakda, showcasing the collaboration between the two institutions.
The official reception at noon featured a warm welcome by Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, accompanied by key faculty members. Discussions centered around the expansion of student exchanges and potential collaborative research initiatives. Souvenirs were exchanged, followed by a group photo to commemorate the partnership.
An engaging afternoon session with Thai and Japanese students included testimonials from alumni about their exchange experiences. Professor Kitagawa also shared insights about St. Marianna University, inspiring students with opportunities in cross-cultural medical education.
The day concluded with a courtesy call with Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of KKU, marking the second encounter between the two leaders – one a pediatrician and the other a pediatric surgeon – reflecting the strong ties between both universities.
On the second day, Professor Kitagawa delivered a thought-provoking presentation on “Innovations in Fetal Therapy: Surgical Interventions and Future Perspectives” at the Pediatric Surgery Unit. The lecture captivated faculty and residents, sparking discussions on cutting-edge developments in fetal surgery.
Later, Professor Kitagawa observed two other St. Marianna students, Miss Saya Tomita and Miss Ruka Ushio, during their Cardio-Thoracic Surgery rotation at Srinagarind Hospital, further highlighting the robust training opportunities offered by KKU. An optional visit to the operating theatre showcased advanced surgical practices.
Both institutions share a commitment to advancing medical education and healthcare. This visit laid the foundation for deeper cooperation that will benefit students, faculty, and the broader medical community.
Professor Kitagawa’s visit exemplifies the spirit of global partnership, reinforcing KKU’s position as a hub for international medical education and collaboration.
มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่นต้อนรับอธิการบดี St. Marianna University สู่ความร่วมมือทางวิชาการระดับนานาชาติ
ขอนแก่น, ประเทศไทย – 30-31 ตุลาคม 2567 – คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น (มข.) ได้รัต้อนรับ Professor Hiroaki Kitagawa, M.D., Ph.D. อธิการบดีจาก St. Marianna University School of Medicine ประเทศญี่ปุ่น ในการเยือนครั้งพิเศษนี้ มุ่งเน้นการเสริมสร้างความร่วมมือทางวิชาการและสำรวจโอกาสในการพัฒนาความร่วมมือด้านการศึกษาและวิจัยทางการแพทย์ในอนาคต
การเยือนเริ่มต้นด้วยการที่ Professor Kitagawa ได้ร่วมนิเทศน์นักศึกษาแพทย์จากมหาวิทยาลัย St. Marianna Miss Akari Tsuchiya ที่ศึกษาดูงานและแลกเปลี่ยน ณ สาขาเวชศาสตร์ฉุกเฉิน โดยได้รับการต้อนรับอย่างอบอุ่นจาก รศ.ปริวัฒน์ ภู่เงิน หัวหน้าสาขาเวชศาสตร์ฉุกเฉิน และ อ.พญ.มธุรส บูรณศักดา
“This program was a great opportunity to see how the healthcare system in a different country works and also the big step in my growth in both medical technique and myself as a whole.”
Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University, was a featured speaker at the 65th Anniversary Celebration International Forum organized by the Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University. The forum, held from October 24-25, 2024, focused on the theme “Global Health Challenges and Solutions: A Collaborative Approach” and brought together international experts and healthcare professionals to address pressing global health issues.
Assoc. Prof. Makarawate presented on the topic “Best Practices in Preventive Care,” sharing insights into innovative approaches and effective strategies to enhance preventive healthcare. His presentation highlighted how preventive care can play a critical role in managing health challenges on a global scale, aligning with the forum’s collaborative focus.
The event underscored the importance of partnerships and shared knowledge in advancing global health solutions, with participants from various countries contributing perspectives and strategies to tackle healthcare challenges collectively.
คณบดีคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ได้รับเกียรติให้เป็นวิทยากรในงานThe 65th Anniversary Celebration International Forum มหาวิทยาลัยเชียงใหม่
รศ. นพ. ภัทรพงษ์ มกรเวส คณบดีคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ได้รับเกียรติให้เป็นวิทยากรหลักบรรยายในหัวข้อ “Best Practices in Preventive Care” ในงานประชุม The 65th Anniversary Celebration International Forum ซึ่งจัดขึ้นโดยคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยเชียงใหม่ งานประชุมนี้จัดขึ้นระหว่างวันที่ 24-25 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2567 ภายใต้หัวข้อ “Global Health Challenges and Solutions: A Collaborative Approach” โดยรวบรวมผู้เชี่ยวชาญและบุคลากรทางการแพทย์จากนานาชาติเพื่อหารือเกี่ยวกับประเด็นสำคัญด้านสุขภาพระดับโลก
“With my interest in radiology diagnostics, I want to understand the differences in practices between South Korea and Thailand. This is why I chose to go to Dongseo University, which is well-known for technology and innovation, and has hospitals equipped for internships.”
Khon Kaen University (KKU) proudly welcomes medical students from prestigious Japanese universities as part of its international exchange program. This initiative aims to foster cross-border academic collaboration and support KKU’s strategic goal of becoming an internationally recognized medical school.
Exchange Program Details:
Miss Akari Tsuchiya and Miss Saya Tomita, 5th-year medical students from St. Marianna University School of Medicine, will join:
Emergency Medicine: October 21 – November 1, 2024
Otolaryngology: November 4 – 15, 2024
Miss Ruka Ushio, also a 5th-year student, will participate in:
Pediatric Surgery: October 21 – November 1, 2024
Thoracic Surgery: November 4 – 15, 2024
Mr. Keisuke Takayama, a 6th-year medical student from Shimane University, will engage in hands-on learning in Anesthesiology from October 21 – 31, 2024.
This exchange program is part of ongoing collaborations under Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between KKU and partner universities worldwide. It highlights the university’s commitment to building global educational networks and advancing international medical cooperation.
“This program provided me the opportunity to observe and participate in high-quality medical care in the Internal Medicine department, offering a comprehensive learning experience.”
“This elective at CWRU was a transformative experience that expanded my medical knowledge, professional connections, and cultural understanding, all of which will inspire my future career in medicine.”
On October 11, 2024, international exchange students and medical professionals from Norway, Malaysia, and Laos gathered at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, to present their experiences and share the knowledge gained during their exchange programs on the occasion of graduation day.
The participants included Ms. Torine Ødven, Ms. Målfrid Pettersen Lunde, Ms. Kristiane Aass Vågmo, and Mr. Trond August Flatås, medical students from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway; Dr. Balakumaran Balaravi Pillai, a specialist in hepatobiliary surgery from Malaysia; and nurses from Lao PDR, including Ms. Parnkham PHOMMAXAY, Mr. Ketsana CHANTHAVONG, Ms. Souksakhone NOUNMANY, Ms. Chansamay PHOMMACHACK, and Ms. Vongdeuan THAMAMONE from the University of Health Science.
The event allowed these international participants to reflect on their learning experiences, highlighting the academic and professional growth they achieved during their time at Khon Kaen University.
Reflecting on the exchange, a specialist from Malaysia said, “This exchange has been a transformative experience. The surgical practices and techniques I observed here, especially in hepatobiliary surgery, have enhanced my professional knowledge. I’m eager to bring these insights back to my home country.”
A nursing student from Laos shared, “We have learned so much about patient care and medical practices. The experience has been invaluable, and we believe the insights we gained from our Thai colleagues will greatly benefit the healthcare system in Laos.”
A medical student from Norway remarked, “Studying here has been an exceptional experience. The practical skills, academic rigor, and cultural exchange have provided us with a well-rounded medical education that we will carry forward into our future careers.”
The presentations on graduation day celebrated the conclusion of a fruitful exchange program, which not only expanded the students’ and professionals’ horizons but also strengthened the ties between medical institutions across borders.
The Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, is pleased to welcome two third-year residents from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Laos: Dr. Ms. Vinitda Phimmasone and Dr. Ms. Viengsavanh Phommachith. They will participate in an elective study program in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Srinagarind Hospital from October 7 to November 1, 2024, for a total of four weeks.
This elective provides a valuable opportunity for the residents to enhance their skills and knowledge in emergency medicine while fostering collaboration between medical professionals from Laos and Thailand. It marks a significant step toward strengthening medical ties between the two countries.
