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.
