The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University is proud to host a specialized ENT workshop led by renowned otolaryngologist Professor Adrian James from the University of Toronto, Canada. The workshop, titled the “1st Total Endoscopic Ear Surgery & 18th Khon Kaen Temporal Bone Dissection Cours”, will be held on August 29-30, 2024.
Professor Adrian James, a distinguished figure in the field of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, is bringing his expertise to Khon Kaen University for this exclusive workshop. With an impressive academic background and extensive experience at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Professor James will guide participants through advanced techniques in endoscopic ear surgery.
The workshop will cover critical topics such as endoscopic myringotomy with vent tube insertion, endoscopic tympanoplasty, and endoscopic inner ear surgery, among others. The course is designed for practitioners looking to refine their skills in these specialized areas of otolaryngology.
This event is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a total endoscopic ear surgery course is being conducted at Khon Kaen University. The program ensures personalized instruction and hands-on experience with fresh frozen cadavers.
In addition to the workshop, Professor Adrian James was warmly welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, and Asst. Prof. Supawan Laohasiriwong, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication. The discussions extended beyond the scope of the workshop, exploring potential collaborations in elective programs and further academic partnerships between the University of Toronto and Khon Kaen University.
This event underscores Khon Kaen University’s commitment to advancing medical education and fostering international cooperation in the field of otolaryngology. The Faculty of Medicine continues to be a leader in providing cutting-edge medical training and research opportunities, attracting top-tier professionals from around the globe.
The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (KKU) is thrilled to have warmly welcomed a distinguished group of medical students from the University of Occupational and Environmental Health (UOEH), Japan, for a momentous cultural exchange program. Held from August 20-24, 2024, this event was graced by the presence of Associate Professor Supawan Laohasiriwong, Assistant to the Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communications, who extended a warm reception to the delegation.
The UOEH students participating in this groundbreaking exchange include:
Mayu Sugiyama
Tomoe Takaki
Rei Kariya
This cultural exchange, organized in collaboration with the International Relations Club of the KKU Medical Student Association, is a pioneering initiative aimed at bridging diverse cultures and fostering international relationships among future medical professionals.
Highlights of the Program:
Enhancing Global Communication and Understanding: The students engaged in activities designed to promote cross-cultural communication, broaden their perspectives, and deepen their understanding of global health challenges.
Exchanging Knowledge and Best Practices: Participants shared insights into their respective educational systems and public health approaches, fostering mutual learning and expanding their global medical knowledge.
Strengthening International Relationships: This program not only forged lasting bonds between KKU and UOEH medical students but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations in the medical field.
This exchange program offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to connect, celebrate cultural diversity, and learn from one another. We anticipate that this experience will leave a lasting impact on all participants, both personally and professionally, and serve as a catalyst for future international collaborations and enduring friendships.
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.
Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine recently garnered international attention by hosting the 18th Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Workshop and the 10th International Advanced Sinus and Skull Base Surgery Workshop. Held on August 25, 2024, at the Mittraphap Conference Room and the Advanced Skill Lab, this event served as a crucial platform for enhancing the surgical expertise of ENT specialists and neurosurgeons from across Southeast Asia.
The workshop was officially opened by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. This year’s workshop featured distinguished speakers from renowned global institutions, including Prof. Ricardo L. Carrau and Prof. Daniel M. Prevedello from Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA, and Prof. Siow Jin Keat from Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore. Their participation underscored the event’s significance as a premier international medical education opportunity.
Assoc. Prof. Teeraporn Ratanaanakechai, Head of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Khon Kaen University, highlighted the workshop’s objective: to equip ENT specialists and neurosurgeons with cutting-edge techniques in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. This hands-on training was designed to empower medical professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in these complex surgical areas, thus improving patient outcomes across the region.
The workshop attracted 60 participants from Thailand, Laos, and Indonesia, reflecting Khon Kaen University’s growing influence as a center for advanced medical training. Assoc. Prof. Pornthep Kasemsiri, the workshop coordinator, noted that the event’s success demonstrates Khon Kaen University’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and driving medical innovation in Southeast Asia.
Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine has long been recognized for its dedication to advancing medical education and research. By hosting international events such as this workshop, the university continues to establish itself as a leader in global healthcare education, providing a vital platform for the exchange of knowledge and the development of surgical expertise.
This international workshop is yet another example of Khon Kaen University’s proactive role in elevating healthcare standards both regionally and globally. Through its ongoing commitment to excellence in medical education, the Faculty of Medicine is not only contributing to the professional development of healthcare providers in Southeast Asia but also reinforcing its position as a key player in the global medical community.
Srinagarind Hospital, under the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, recently hosted the 12th Annual Comprehensive Care Program for Cleft Lip, Palate, and Craniofacial Deformities, drawing international attention to its pioneering approach in holistic patient care. The event, held on August 24, 2024, at the Rachawadee Resort and Hotel in Khon Kaen, underscored the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class medical services and improving the quality of life for patients with complex craniofacial conditions.
The program, which has become a model of excellence in healthcare, is supported by the Khon Kaen Provincial Administration Organization and organized by the Tawanchai Foundation in collaboration with Srinagarind Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University. This year’s event was inaugurated by Mr. Prasit Thongthangthai, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Provincial Administration Organization, and attended by distinguished figures from both the medical field and the local community, including Prof. Dr. Benjamas Prathanee, Vice President of the Tawanchai Foundation.
Recognized for its multi-disciplinary approach, the program focuses on providing comprehensive care in five critical areas: health, education, livelihood, social integration, and empowerment. This holistic strategy ensures that patients not only receive top-tier medical treatment but also gain the necessary tools and support to lead fulfilling lives within their communities.
Prof. Dr. Benjamas Prathanee, in her address, highlighted the program’s impact over the past 12 years. She emphasized that the program has set a benchmark for integrated care in Southeast Asia, attracting interest from medical professionals and researchers worldwide. The program’s success in improving the quality of life for cleft lip and palate patients has positioned Srinagarind Hospital and Khon Kaen University as leaders in the global healthcare community.
Mr. Prasit Thongthangthai echoed these sentiments, noting the program’s alignment with national strategies aimed at promoting social equity and enhancing public health. He also pointed out the international significance of the program, which not only benefits local communities but also serves as a template for similar initiatives in other countries facing similar healthcare challenges.
The Srinagarind Hospital Comprehensive Care Program has been instrumental in fostering international collaboration, with medical experts from various countries participating in and learning from the program’s innovative practices. This global exchange of knowledge and expertise has further solidified the hospital’s reputation as a center of excellence in medical care and research.
As the program continues to evolve, Srinagarind Hospital and Khon Kaen University remain committed to advancing global healthcare standards. Their efforts reflect a broader mission to improve the lives of individuals with complex medical conditions worldwide, demonstrating the power of integrated care and international cooperation in achieving sustainable health outcomes.
This internationally recognized program at Srinagarind Hospital is not just a testament to the hospital’s medical prowess, but also a beacon of hope and a model of compassionate, comprehensive care that resonates across borders.
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 Friday, August 16, 2024, Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine held a special charity football match, the SINGHA ALL STAR Unity Match 2024, under the theme “A Healthy World, A Healthy People.” This event was a collaboration between the Faculty of Medicine and Singha All Star, supported by Boon Rawd Brewery Co., Ltd.
The KKU team, led by Associate Professor Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, alongside faculty members, staff, and medical students, took to the field against the Singha All Star team, captained by Piti Bhirombhakdi and joined by several well-known celebrities and actors. The match was held at the 50th Anniversary Stadium of Khon Kaen University.
International exchange students from Austria, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic also joined in the event, contributing to the spirit of global camaraderie and charitable efforts.
The proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the Faculty of Medicine’s mobile medical units for community health and the Cholangiocarcinoma projects at Khon Kaen University.
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.
