Category: Internaitonal Visitor

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

จากนั้น รศ.ภัทรพงษ์ มกรเวส คณบดีคณะแพทยศาสตร์ พร้อมด้วย รศ.ธรรศ สงวนศักดิ์ รองคณบดีฝ่ายวิเทศสัมพันธ์และการสื่อสารองค์กร, ผศ.สุภวรรณ เลาหศิริวงศ์, และ รศ.วรัชญา พันธุ์พฤกษ์ ผู้ช่วยฝ่ายวิเทศสัมพันธ์ ได้ให้การต้อนรับ Professor Kitagawa อย่างเป็นทางการ การประชุมร่วมกันระหว่างสองฝ่ายได้มีการพูดคุยถึงโครงการวิจัยร่วม และการขยายโปรแกรมแลกเปลี่ยนนักศึกษา พร้อมทั้งมีการแลกเปลี่ยนของที่ระลึกและถ่ายภาพร่วมกัน

ช่วงบ่าย Professor Kitagawa เข้าร่วมการเสวนากับนักศึกษาแพทย์ไทย กัมพูชา และญี่ปุ่น โดยศิษย์เก่าที่เคยเข้าร่วมโครงการแลกเปลี่ยนได้แบ่งปันประสบการณ์อย่างเป็นกันเอง นอกจากนี้ อธิการบดีได้แนะนำมหาวิทยาลัย St. Marianna และจุดเด่นของหลักสูตรแพทย์ จบด้วยการเปิดเวทีแลกเปลี่ยนความคิดเห็น เพื่อสร้างความเข้าใจที่ลึกซึ้งระหว่างวัฒนธรรมการแพทย์ของทั้งสองประเทศ

ต่อมา รศ.นพ.ชาญชัย พานทองวิริยะกุล อธิการบดีมหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ซึ่งเป็นกุมารแพทย์ ได้พบปะกับ Professor Kitagawa ศัลยแพทย์กุมารจากญี่ปุ่น สะท้อนความสัมพันธ์ที่ใกล้ชิดและมิตรภาพอันยาวนานระหว่างสองสถาบัน

ในวันที่สองของการเยือน Professor Kitagawa ได้เยี่ยมชม หน่วยศัลยกรรมกุมาร บนชั้น 5 ของอาคารสมเด็จพระศรีนครินทราบรมราชชนนี พร้อมทั้งบรรยายในหัวข้อ “นวัตกรรมการบำบัดทารกในครรภ์: การแทรกแซงเชิงศัลยกรรมและมุมมองในอนาคต” ซึ่งได้รับความสนใจอย่างยิ่งจากคณาจารย์และแพทย์ประจำบ้านสาขาศัลยกรรมกุมาร

หลังการบรรยาย Professor Kitagawa ได้นิเทศน์ Miss Saya Tomita และ Miss Ruka Ushio ในช่วงการศึกษาดูงานและแลกเปลี่ยน ณ สาขาศัลยกรรมหัวใจ-ทรวงอก ที่โรงพยาบาลศรีนครินทร์ นอกจากนี้ การเยี่ยมชมยังเปิดโอกาสให้ Professor Kitagawa ได้สำรวจห้องผ่าตัด ซึ่งสะท้อนถึงมาตรฐานการฝึกปฏิบัติระดับสูงของคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มข.

ด้วยเป้าหมายร่วมกันในการพัฒนาความรู้ด้านการแพทย์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่นและมหาวิทยาลัย St. Marianna ได้วางรากฐานความร่วมมือที่จะสร้างประโยชน์ให้กับนักศึกษา คณาจารย์ และระบบสาธารณสุขของทั้งสองประเทศ

การเยือนครั้งนี้ไม่เพียงแต่สะท้อนมิตรภาพที่เข้มแข็งระหว่างสองมหาวิทยาลัย แต่ยังเป็นก้าวสำคัญสู่ความร่วมมือระยะยาว ที่จะช่วยยกระดับการศึกษาด้านการแพทย์และสร้างความเปลี่ยนแปลงในวงการสุขภาพระดับโลก

In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare and medical education in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), Faulty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (KKU) welcomed a delegation from the University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, for a two-day collaborative visit focused on Family Medicine. The delegation, led by Dr. Phouvang Sengmuang, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and a distinguished alumnus of KKU’s Faculty of Medicine, was warmly received by Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of KKU’s Faculty of Medicine, along with other key faculty members.

Dr. Phouvang Sengmuang, who holds a degree in Physiology from Khon Kaen University, returned to her alma mater to further strengthen ties between the two institutions. This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of both universities to advancing medical education and research in Family Medicine, a critical field that addresses the holistic health needs of communities.

Key areas of cooperation include the exchange of third-year Family Medicine residents for two-month training programs, with KKU offering to host 10-11 residents from Lao PDR annually. In addition, KKU expressed its readiness to assist in the development of Family Medicine curricula for both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students in Lao PDR.

Highlighting the strong academic ties between the two institutions, Dr. Vimala Bouphavanh, a current student from Lao PDR, is enrolled in the three-year Advanced Graduate Diploma in Clinical Medical Science, specializing in Family Medicine at KKU. Upon completing her studies, Dr. Vimala will receive dual certification from the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University: the Advanced Graduate Diploma in Clinical Medical Science and the specialized certificates in Community Medicine, Family Medicine, and Occupational Medicine.

The collaboration also extends to offering international programs such as the Master of Health and Medical Sciences and PhD programs, designed to equip medical professionals with the skills necessary to address complex health challenges.

During the visit, fruitful discussions were held on further strengthening strategic collaborations, particularly in clinical rotations, community-based training, and research development. The visit concluded with a tour of the Kum Koon Center and Ubolratana Hospital, where the delegation observed KKU’s innovative approaches to integrating community participation into healthcare delivery and the training of medical students.

Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate emphasized, “KKU’s Faculty of Medicine is committed to fostering strong partnerships within the GMS. Our collaboration with the University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, is a testament to our shared vision of improving healthcare for all communities in the region.”

This partnership highlights the shared dedication of both institutions to advancing Family Medicine education and improving health outcomes across borders, setting a precedent for future collaboration within the GMS.

In a significant move to strengthen international academic collaboration, Professor Dr. Mayumi Negishi and Professor Akira Yanagawa from the University of Shizuoka, Japan, along with four undergraduate nursing students, are scheduled to visit Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine. The delegation includes Miss Hanako Minoshima, Mr. Tomohiro Ito, Miss Aoi Onoda, and Miss Shami Natalie Suzuki.

This visit, set for Wednesday, September 4, 2024, will focus on a study tour and exchange program aimed at enhancing the students’ practical knowledge and experience in obstetric and gynecological nursing.

The exchange program underscores the ongoing commitment of Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University to foster educational partnerships with institutions around the globe, offering students a unique opportunity to learn from diverse healthcare systems and practices.

As part of their itinerary, the Japanese delegation will observe the operations within the obstetric-gynecological nursing department, gaining insights into the specialized care and techniques employed in a Thai medical setting. This collaboration is expected to enrich the academic and professional perspectives of both the visiting students and the Thai nursing staff involved.

The visit reflects the broader educational goals of both universities to provide students with international exposure and hands-on experience in different cultural and clinical environments, preparing them for a globalized healthcare landscape.

September 3, 2024 – Today marks a significant milestone in the realm of international academic cooperation as a distinguished delegation from NIMS University, Jaipur, India, arrives at Khon Kaen University (KKU). Led by the highly respected Professor Dr. Balvir Singh Thomar, Founder and Chancellor of NIMS University, and Professor Dr. Deepak Nathiya, Director of International Affairs, this visit is poised to forge new academic alliances that promise to elevate the standards of medical education and research across Asia.

The delegation, which includes prominent representatives from The Association of the Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), is here to explore the potential for collaborative research, student exchange programs, and a variety of academic initiatives that could benefit both institutions. This visit signals a deepening of ties between NIMS University and KKU, with discussions expected to lay the groundwork for innovative and mutually beneficial projects.

Throughout the day, the delegation will engage in a series of high-level meetings at KKU, including a courtesy call with Assoc. Prof. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication. Dr. Busara Charoenwat from the Department of Pediatrics will also guide the delegation on an insightful tour of the Pediatrics Department, where they will discuss the feasibility of future collaborations.

As these two prestigious institutions come together, the global academic community is watching closely. The outcome of these discussions could herald new advancements in the medical field, setting the stage for innovations that will impact health sciences across the region and beyond.

Key Participants from KKU:

• Prof. Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication
• Nantaporn Wongsurawat, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs
• Busara Charoenwat, Department of Pediatrics
• Duangkamol Srisawasdi, Head, International Relations Office

Distinguished Delegates from NIMS University:

• Professor Dr. Balvir Singh Thomar, Pediatrician, Founder, and Chancellor
• Professor Dr. Deepak Nathiya, Director of International Affairs
• Rotando C. Garcia, President, Master’s Seminary and Treasurer, AUAP
• Supaporn Chuangchid, Executive Secretary, AUAP
• Krittiphattharaphong Punsuchart, Administrative Officer, AUAP

This visit is not just a routine academic exchange; it is a pivotal moment that could reshape the landscape of medical education in Asia. With both institutions committed to excellence, the collaborations initiated today are expected to yield fruitful outcomes that will resonate well into the future.

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:

1. Mayu Sugiyama
2. Tomoe Takaki
3. 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:

1. Miss Ayami Kohara – 5th Year
2. Miss Yuria Sakata – 3rd Year
3. Koki Koba – 1st Year
4. Tomoki Nakamura – 1st Year
5. Akira Katsumata – 1st Year
6. 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.