On August 21, 2024, Khon Kaen University warmly welcomed a distinguished delegation from Japan. Associate Professor Daris Theerakulpisut, Assistant to the Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communications, extended a warm reception to Professor Emeritus Masayuki Hayashi, MD, PhD, from Fukushima Medical University (FMU) and Director of Osaka Christ College (OCC), along with six medical students from Kumamoto University.
The visiting students were:
Miss Ayami Kohara – 5th Year
Miss Yuria Sakata – 3rd Year
Koki Koba – 1st Year
Tomoki Nakamura – 1st Year
Akira Katsumata – 1st Year
Yuki Mito – 1st Year
This visit focused on fostering academic collaboration and cultural exchange between the two countries. The delegation began with a study tour at the Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Radiology, where they had the opportunity to closely observe Thailand’s medical education system and its high-quality medical services.
Following the tour, the delegation visited the Princess Srinagarindra Memorial Museum at Srinagarind Hospital, an important educational site that showcases the life and contributions of Princess Srinagarindra, particularly in healthcare and improving the quality of life for people in remote areas.
The visit concluded with a hands-on session at the Skill Lab, where the students participated in simulated medical practice, enhancing their professional skills and confidence for their future careers.
The visit from the Kumamoto delegation not only strengthened the ties between Khon Kaen University and leading educational institutions in Japan but also underscored Khon Kaen University’s commitment to promoting international cooperation and cultural exchange in medical education with sustainability and quality.
Khon Kaen University was honored to host an inspiring visit from Professor Hiroyuki Sakurai, Deputy Director of Iga City General Hospital and a distinguished academic from Mie University, Japan. Accompanied by seven promising medical students, Professor Sakurai’s visit from August 26 – 29, 2024, represented a pivotal moment in strengthening international ties and fostering cross-cultural exchange in the field of healthcare.
The delegation received a warm and gracious welcome from Assoc. Prof. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, who expressed their heartfelt greetings on behalf of the Faculty of Medicine.
Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions in hepatobiliary pancreatic and transplant surgery, Professor Sakurai led a team of enthusiastic students eager to delve into Thailand’s unique medical landscape:
Ms. Fuko Hattori, 2nd-year medical student
Ms. Yuzune Ogawa, 2nd-year medical student
Ms. Nonoka Suzuki, 1st-year medical student
Ms. Reika Nishida, 1st-year medical student
Ms. Mizuki Takabatake, 1st-year medical student
Ms. Reina Takikawa, 1st-year medical student
Ms. Nana Takashima, 1st-year medical student
The visit was characterized by engaging and collaborative experiences, including insightful tours of the Srinagarind Hospital’s state-of-the-art surgical wards and outpatient departments. These visits offered the delegation a firsthand glimpse into the advanced medical practices and high standards of patient care maintained at Khon Kaen University.
Beyond the clinical environment, the visitors were immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Thailand, with explorations of iconic sites such as Wat Nong Waeng and Wat Thung Setthi. These cultural excursions deepened their appreciation of Thailand’s traditions, complementing the academic exchanges.
A key highlight of the visit was the educational exchange at the Sam Liam Primary Care Unit, which plays a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive and continuous patient care. The unit bridges the gap between hospital and community healthcare by improving patient follow-up and enhancing communication through modern tools like group chats and phone calls. This model has significantly improved the quality of life for dependent patients and reduced hospital readmissions.
The delegation also explored the Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine department at Khon Kaen Hospital. Established to educate the public on traditional Thai medicine and the correct use of Thai herbs for health maintenance and disease prevention, this center integrates traditional therapies like Thai massage and herbal medicine with modern medical practices. This fusion provides a unique healthcare experience that addresses a wide range of health issues, including insomnia, stress, depression, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic pain.
A transformative visit to the Kum Koon Center further enriched the delegation’s experience. This pioneering model of sustainable living and holistic health was founded by Dr. Apisit Thamrongwarangkul, former Director of Ubolratana Hospital, and his wife, Dr. Thanthip Thamrongwarangkul. The center, which supplies organic vegetables to hospitals and serves as an educational hub for integrated agriculture, also offers employment opportunities for the underprivileged, making it a beacon of community-driven health and sustainability.
The visit also spotlighted the “Lawa Model,” an innovative community-based strategy to combat liver fluke disease. Pioneered by Prof. Dr. Banchob Sripa, Director of the Tropical Disease Research Center at Khon Kaen University, the Lawa Model has become a national and international benchmark for liver fluke control and prevention. The model’s success has transformed Lawa Village and the Ban Lawa Health Promotion Hospital into leading sites for studying integrated liver fluke control, earning recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) in the Asia-Pacific region. The model’s principles have been implemented across the Mekong subregion, underscoring its global impact.
As the visit concluded, it was clear that this exchange had not only strengthened academic collaboration but also deepened the bond between Mie University and Khon Kaen University. The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University eagerly anticipates future collaborations, united in their shared commitment to excellence in medical education and global healthcare.
This visit stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two institutions and their collective dedication to advancing global healthcare and education.
On August 22, 2024, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, had the distinct honor of welcoming a prestigious delegation from Japan’s Keio University. The delegation, led by Associate Professor Dr. Yaowared Chulikhit, Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, and International Relations at the Faculty of Pharmacy, included three distinguished faculty members: Professor Yonezawa Atsushi, Associate Professor Akiyoshi Takeshi, and Associate Professor Matsuzaki Juntaro.
The purpose of their visit to Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine was to explore potential collaborations and forge stronger ties between the two institutions. A key topic of discussion was the delegation’s interest in sending Japanese pharmacists to Srinagarind Hospital for specialized training and observation. This collaboration would focus on the hospital’s cutting-edge pharmaceutical practices, particularly in the management and dispensing of medications for complex conditions such as cancer.
This visit marks a significant step forward in international academic cooperation, promising to enhance both institutions’ global impact in the field of pharmacy and medical sciences.
On August 21, 2024, Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine, led by Associate Professor Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, and Associate Professor Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication, proudly welcomed Prof. Joshua Jamal Solomon, MD, an expert in Pulmonary Medicine from National Jewish Health, University of Colorado, USA.
Prof. Solomon joined the Faculty as a Visiting Professor at the Department of Medicine from August 19 to 25, 2024. During his visit, he will deliver lectures and conduct practical workshops on Interstitial Lung Disease Education. Additionally, he will serve as a research advisor to students and faculty researchers within the Faculty of Medicine.
The discussions during Prof. Solomon’s visit centered on fostering collaborative efforts in research, academics, innovation, and future joint activities, marking a significant step forward in international cooperation between the institutions.
Professor YONEZAWA Atsushi, Associate Professor AKIYOSHI Takeshi, and Associate Professor MATSUZAKI Juntaro, along with 18 pharmacy students from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Japan, recently visited Khon Kaen University for a comprehensive study tour and cultural exchange. As part of their visit, the delegation explored the Advanced Clinical Research Organization (ACRO) at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, to gain insights into cutting-edge clinical research and management practices.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Ms. Thanitta Udompanit, Deputy Director for Business & General Administration Department (BGAD), ACRO, who provided an overview of the facility’s capabilities and its contributions to global clinical research. ACRO operates as an enterprise unit under the Faculty of Medicine, with the primary mission of delivering internationally recognized clinical research services.
The visit by Keio University’s Faculty of Pharmacy is a testament to the international recognition of ACRO’s capabilities and the collaborative spirit that drives Khon Kaen University’s commitment to academic and professional excellence. The exchange provided an enriching experience for both institutions, fostering opportunities for future collaborations in the field of clinical research.
In an exciting development for the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, and Associate Professor Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, are pleased to welcome Dr. Desiree Yap AM, a distinguished Specialist Gynecologist, MBBS FRANZCOG FRCOG MPHTM GAICD. Dr. Yap’s visit, scheduled from July 15th to August 5th, 2024, marks a significant step in our ongoing mission to enhance educational standards and foster international collaboration.
Dr. Yap, a specialist at the Royal Women’s Hospital’s Dysplasia Unit, renowned for her expertise in abnormal cervical screening, brings a wealth of clinical, research, and teaching experience. Additionally, she serves in the Menopause Unit at Monash Medical Centre Southern Health, making her visit a highly anticipated event for our faculty and students.
Throughout her visit, Dr. Yap will deliver impactful lectures aimed at raising the standards of both pre-degree and post-degree education, aligning with our goal of internationalization. She will also explore opportunities for international collaborative research projects, providing valuable academic support in developing postgraduate studies and supervising staff and postgraduate students in related fields.
This prestigious visit is facilitated by the dedicated efforts of Associate Professor Waraluk Sombunpon from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Their commitment to fostering international relationships and enhancing the academic environment at Khon Kaen University is greatly appreciated.
We are thrilled to host Dr. Yap and look forward to the invaluable insights and advancements her visit will bring to our institution.
On July 26, 2024, representatives from the Office of International Affairs at Khon Kaen University (KKU) hosted Ms. Chaidarun Tippawan, Director of the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) Thailand Programs, for a significant meeting with the Faculty of Medicine’s representatives.
The discussions were led by Assistant Professor Supawan Laohasiriwong, MD, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication, alongside Associate Professor Watcharin Loilome, Director of the Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, and Associate Professor Sutas Suttiprapa, Head of the Department of Tropical Medicine.
The primary focus of the meeting was to explore academic cooperation opportunities, particularly in student exchange programs and professional training experiences. The collaboration aims to enhance knowledge and understanding in public health and health sciences through joint educational initiatives and partnerships within Khon Kaen University.
Since its establishment in 1982, USAC, a non-profit organization, has provided life-changing opportunities for students to live and learn across various countries worldwide. With over 50 international study programs across various countries, USAC is committed to providing students with countless opportunities to experience life abroad and become global citizens.
This meeting highlights Khon Kaen University’s dedication to building global partnerships and advancing excellence in health sciences. By fostering international collaboration, the university aims to enrich educational experiences and drive innovation in public health, ultimately benefiting both the local and global communities.
On July 23, 2024, the Faculty of Medicine, led by Assoc. Prof. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, warmly welcomed Assoc. Prof. Hiroyuki Otsuka, the Director of the Emergency Center at the Department of Emergency Medicine and Surgery, Tokai University Hachioji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
During his visit, Associate Professor Otsuka engaged in a study tour and held discussions aimed at fostering collaboration in the fields of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. Initial coordination was conducted with Assistant Professor Panu Teeratakulpisarn, MD, Head of the Center of Excellence for Trauma at the Trauma Unit, Department of Surgery, Khon Kaen University.
This visit marks a significant step forward in the Faculty of Medicine’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships and advance medical education and research. The collaboration with Tokai University Hachioji Hospital has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of patients by improving trauma care and surgical outcomes in Thailand.
On July 19, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, welcomed Associate Professor Tomohisa Uchida, a distinguished pathologist from the Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Japan. The meeting marked a significant step forward in fostering international academic partnerships.
Joined by Associate Professor Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, and Mrs. Duangkamol Srisawasdi, Head of the International Relations Office, the discussion delved into various opportunities for collaboration between the two esteemed institutions.
Associate Professor Uchida, who manages Oita University’s Bangkok office, plays a pivotal role in facilitating student exchanges and overseeing research collaborations. “I am delighted to explore opportunities to enhance our partnership with Khon Kaen University,” he remarked. He expressed gratitude for Khon Kaen University’s initiative to send medical students to Oita University, emphasizing that the existing MOU between the two universities would streamline the process of launching a student exchange program.
This year, Oita University’s Faculty of Medicine has already welcomed 10 students from Thailand: three from Siriraj Hospital, four from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mahasarakham University, and three from the Faculty of Science at Chulalongkorn University. These students have been engaged in various basic medical fields, including immunology and physiology, enriching their academic experience and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
In an exciting development, Associate Professor Uchida announced that Khon Kaen University will send Dr. Thanatat Panitphong to observe Gastroenterological Surgery at Oita University in September. This initiative is expected to further strengthen the ties between the two institutions and provide valuable learning opportunities for Dr. Panitphong.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with both parties expressing optimism about the future of their collaboration. The potential for academic excellence and mutual growth through these partnerships promises to benefit students and faculty alike.
On July 17, 2024, the Medical Illustration Department, Faculty of Medicine, welcomed faculty members and students from the Science Communication Department, National Pingtung University (NPTU), Taiwan.
Dr. Kan Komany, the Chairperson of the Medical Illustration Program, introduced the department’s details, curriculum, activities, and educational facilities. Dr. Piyanat Sudee and Dr. Pakarat Tempiam, faculty members of the program, also provided information and led a tour of the advanced medical illustration painting classroom taught by Dr. Chommanad U-pachitkul.
In addition, the visitors toured the Studio Production House of the Faculty of Medicine, where Mr. Sarawut Wongyai demonstrated the studio’s usage and the production of online educational materials through KKUMEDX, which is crucial for future integrated learning management.
The visit concluded with a productive exchange of ideas and experiences, strengthening the collaborative relationship between the two institutions. Both parties expressed enthusiasm for future cooperation and the potential for joint projects that could enhance the quality of education and research in both countries.
