Category: MOU

Khon Kaen, Thailand – June 11, 2024 – In a landmark collaboration aimed at revolutionizing early disease detection, the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited, and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand (depa) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today. This partnership focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of early screening for heart failure and lung cancer.

The agreement was signed by representatives as follows:

• MDKKU:
  • Associate Professor Dr. Phattharaphong Makornwet, Dean
  • Associate Professor Dr. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
• AstraZeneca (Thailand) Company Limited:
  • Ms. Apinya Viriyaramphanon, Head of Business Excellence and Innovation
  • Mr. Jondy Syjuco, Senior Business Unit Director, CVRM & Core Brands
• depa Thailand:
  • Ms. Kasama Kongsak, Assistant Director General, Strategy and Security Group

Through this collaboration, MDKKU will utilize AI technology provided by AstraZeneca. This AI will be instrumental in detecting early warning signs of heart failure and lung cancer, enabling faster and more precise diagnoses, which holds the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes.

The ultimate goal of this partnership is to reduce mortality rates from these two leading causes of death and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, leading to better prognoses and improved health outcomes. Additionally, depa’s involvement will ensure the development of a robust digital infrastructure to support the sustainable implementation of this AI-powered screening system.

The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by distinguished representatives from all three parties.

AstraZeneca (Thailand) Ltd.:

1. Tanika Pannoppa Business Unit Director – Oncology
2. Narubon Kanungsatitkit Product Manager, CVRM (Head of Project from CVRM)
3. Rattakorn Chaokunha National Sales Manager
4. Sawacke Wuthithanchamroen BBU Expansion Commercial Head
5. Tanitra Ju-ngam Business Unit Director – Rare Disease
6. Kritamait Vithayaruksun Government and Public Affairs Manager

Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand

1. Pradit Kongpunga Interim Division Manager,Lower Northeastern Provincial Cluster Office
2. Acting Lt. Din Supawat Senior Officer, Central Northeastern Provincial Cluster Office

Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University

1. Prof. Sirirat Anutrakulchai Vice Dean for Research and Innovation
2. Prof. Warachaya Phanphruk Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
3. Prof. Burabha Pussadhamma Head, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine
4. Montri Yasud Assistant Dean for Physical Facilities and Environment Management
5. Manun Tanaichot Head, Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Queen Sirikit Heart Center of the Northeast
6. John F. Smith English Specialist, International Relations Office

The signing of this MOU marks a significant step forward in Thailand’s healthcare landscape. By embracing AI technology, this collaboration paves the way for a future where early disease detection becomes more efficient and accurate, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all.

On March 21, 2024, Khon Kaen University (KKU) President, Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, and Japan’s Kumamoto University (KU) President Dr. Hisao Ogawa, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)at KKU Sirikunakorn Building for the development of cooperation in academics, research, student exchange and training under 1) Agreement on Academic Exchange, and 2) Agreement on Student Exchange between their two universities.

“As the President of Khon Kaen University, I look forward to giving full support to make our collaboration fruitful and to the remarkable achievements and advancements that will emerge from these renewed agreements,” said KKU President.

“On behalf of the delegation from Kumamoto University, Japan, I am extremely pleased to meet with Khon Kaen University administrators and to jointly sign this academic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today. We focus on developing academics, technology, and medical innovations. Therefore, this signing represents a strong academic cooperation, and I would like to thank all faculties and organizations involved in driving the success of this endeavor,” said KU President.

The next session of the visit was the Kumamoto University Japan–Thailand Network Meeting at Bayasita Hotel, KKU. This meeting was honored by the presence of The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), and KU alumni from all over Thailand, and interested participants joined the meeting to discuss various topics such as academic and research collaboration, as well as the Double Degree Program.

“This meeting marks the 20^th anniversary of the fruitful academic collaboration between Khon Kaen University and Kumamoto University. A key highlight of this collaboration is the successful implementation of the Double Degree Program between the Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, and the Graduate School of Medical Sciences at Kumamoto University,” reported Assoc. Prof. Kulthida Vaeteewoottacharn, Head of Biochemistry Department.

“This meeting is a platform for intellectual exchange, fostering discussions and collaborations. It offers a chance to engage with our esteemed speakers and forge new connections,” stated Assoc. Prof. Apichat Jiravuttipong, MD, Dean, KKU Faculty of Medicine.

The final session of the visit was the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Thailand (KUAT) Establishment Ceremony held at the Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel. The ceremony was honored by the presence of H.E. Mr. Sorut Sukthaworn, Ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand. During the ceremony, there was a presentation on the history of exchanges between KU and educational institutions in Thailand, as well as a cultural exchange through Isan folk performances, which impressed all attendees.

“May this association serve as a platform for networking, knowledge–sharing, and professional development among Kumamoto University alumni in Thailand. I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations to all the members of the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Thailand. Your achievements and contributions a reflection of the excellence and dedication fostered by Kumamoto University,” said KKU President.

Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun
Editing by Prof. John F Smith

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony between K-MEDI Hub, Republic of Korea and KKU-MD took place on July 2, 2023 at the Korea International Advanced Medical Equipment & Medicine Expo 2023 (KOAMEX 2023) to initiate academic staff exchanges and research and development cooperation.

Between June 30 and July 2, 2023, a KKU delegation participated in KOAMEX 2023, an annual medical innovation exhibition hosted by K-MEDI hub, a center under Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare located in Medi-valley, Daegu, Korea.  K-MEDI hub supports drug development, preclinical study, drug manufacturing, and medical devices.

Assoc. Prof. Apichat Jiravuttipong, MD, KKU-MD Dean together with Director of Academic Clinical Research Office (ACRO) visited K-MEDI Hub on April 2023 to discuss researcher and human resource development and the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between both parties.

The earlier visit culminated in the MOU Signing Ceremony on July 2, 2023 signed by Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, KKU President and Dr. Yang Jin Young K-MEDI Hub President together with Prof. Dr. Monchai Duangjinda, KKU Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies and K-MEDI Hub delegates as witnesses.

Reporting by Sathaphorn Onlamun

Editing by Prof. John F Smith

March 17, 2022 – Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University assigned Assoc. Prof. Apichat Jirawutthipong, M.D., Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, to represent Khon Kaen University and sign an MOU for development and promotion of Phase 2 of Thailand Wellness Hub, between Department of Health Service Support (HSS) and a network of 17 allies, including both governmental and private organizations, universities in the North, East, Isan, South and the Center; and wellness federations and associations. The aim is to drive forward developmental and promotional policies of Thailand Wellness Hub so as to become an international medical hub. The MOU signing was held at the Thailand International Health Expo 2022, which took place at Royal Paragon Hall, 5^th Floor, Siam Paragon.

The frame of references of the MOU and the collaboration are aimed at integration of missions and coordination of joints among the network organizations and universities in driving forward the governmental policies on Thailand Wellness Economic Corridor, the innovation region for promotion of health research, innovation development, development of health promotion service and wellness innovation backbone, development of health buildings, strengthening personnel competency in order to effectively carry out the wellness industry, and to ultimately become an international medical hub. The collaboration will last 5 years from March 17, 2022 until March 17, 2027.

Thailand International Health Expo 2022 is a great exposition event that demonstrates the potentialities and readiness in medicine and public health of Thailand. It is held to build confidence among Thai people and foreigners to see the competency, readiness, and advances in medicine and public health of Thailand. The event also assists in provoking economy, promoting the country in becoming a world Medical and Wellness Hub, upgrading and adding values to Thai herbs, Thai traditional medicine, and Thai wisdom in health care, as well as supporting collaboration between health and Thai traditional health entrepreneurs and health entrepreneurs all over the world.

Support content : https://m.kku.ac.th/12885

On February 15, 2022, During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony on Double Degree Program for Doctoral Degree was held online via Zoom Meeting webinar participated by high ranking administrator of the two institutes between Fujita Health University, Japan and Khon Kaen university, Thailand at KKU-MED Alumni Association Meeting Room, 3^rd Floor, Conventional Academic Building, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.

The representative from Khon Kaen university, Thailand were Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul President Khon Kaen University, Assoc. Prof. Apichat Jiravuttipong Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Assoc. Prof. Wimonrat Sriraj Associate Dean for Research and International Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Nuttaset Manimmanakorn Head, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Assoc. Prof. Benjamas Prathanee Department of Otolaryngology, Assoc. Prof. Patorn Piromchai Department of Otolaryngology, Asst. Prof. Nichanun Panyaek Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, and Dr. Jutarop Phetcharaburanin Assistant to the Dean for Research and International Affairs.

The honorable representative from Fujita Health University, Japan were Prof. Yukio Yuzawa President of Fujita Health University, Prof. Nakao Iwata Dean, Faculty of Graduate School of Medicine and School of Medicine, Prof. Motoshi Suzuki Vice Dean of Graduate School of Medicine, Department Chair and Professor of Molecular Oncology, School of Medicine,  Prof. Kazuo Takahashi Director of Center for International Relations Department Chair and Professor of Anatomy II, School of Medicine, Prof. Yohei Otaka Department Chair and Professor of Rehabilitation Medicine I, School of Medicine, and Ms.Ayako Masaki Manager of the Center for International Relations.

This Letter of Intent is for the purpose of establishing cooperation plan to improve medical service, academic service, and research service between the both Universities in the field of medicine and other related field. We would like to express our appreciation to coordinators of this linkage program that the Fujita Health University and Khon Kaen University have enjoyed a long standing friendship with each other. This ceremony is a milestone event to celebrate successful collaboration.

The Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University  co-hosted a  Signing Ceremony for a Cooperation plan for emergency services development between the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, University of Tsukuba, Japan, and University of Health Science, Laos PDR on December 21, 2020.  The ceremony was held in Meeting Room 1 (5103), 1^st floor, Wechwichakarn Building, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.

The online signing ceremony  included high ranking administrators from  the 3 institutes. The University of Tsukuba, Japan, representatives were 1) Professor Nagata Kyosuke, President, 2) Professor Ohneda Osamu, Office of Global Initiatives, 3) Professor Inoue Yoshiaki , Faculty of Medicine (Emergency Medicine), 4) Professor Hiramatsu Yuji, Deputy Director, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 5) Professor Ichikawa Masao, , Department of Global Public Health, 6) Dr. Suzuki Takaak,i Deputy Chief, International Medical Center, 7) Professor Isoda Masami, Director of University of Tsukuba Khon Kaen University Office, 8) Professor Nomura Nakao, International Exchange Support Director, Global Commons, 9) Mr. Suzuki Hiroyuki, Head, Office of Global Initiatives  10) Mr. Ota Daisuke Chief, Office of Global Initiatives.

University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, representatives were 1) Dr. Bounthome Samountry, Interim President, 2) Dr. Chanthanome Manithip, Vice President, 3) Professor Mayfong Mayxay, Vice President, 4) Dr. Molina Choummanivong, Deputy Director of Administration Cabinet, 5) Dr. Alongkone Phengsavanh, Vice Dean, Faculty of Medicine, 6) Dr. Phouvang Sengmeuang, Vice Dean, Faculty of Medicine, 7) Dr. Vangnakhone Dittaphong, Deputy Director of Mittaphap Hospital, 8) Dr. Khamsay Dethleuxay, Deputy Director of Mahosoth Hospital, 9) Dr. Chanpheng Patthana, Head of International Relations Division, 10) Mr. Lattanavong Thammabanvong, Deputy Head of International Relations Division, 11) Miss. Lattanavone Sengmany Staff, International Relations Division  12) Miss. Phoudthasone Sengdala, Staff, International Relations Division.

The representatives from Khon Kaen University were Associate Professor Maitree Inprasitha, Vice President for Education and Academic Services, Assistant Professor Acharawan Topark-Ngarm, Assistant to the President for International Affairs, Associate Professor Somsak Tiamkao, Head, Department of Emergency Medicine and Doctor Kamonwon Ienghong, Department of Emergency Medicine.

The JICA Thailand Office also participated and sent Mr. Yuasa Keiichiro, Senior Representative, and Mr. Shuchi Ikeda, JICA Expert,  to witness to the ceremony.

The signing person from each institute were Professor Nagata Kyosuke, President of University of Tsukuba, Japan, Dr. Bounthome Samountry Interim President University of Health Science, Laos PDR, and Associate Professor Maitree Inprasitha, Vice President for Education and Academic Services, Khon Kaen University, Thailand. This Letter of Intent is for the purpose of establishing cooperation plan to improve medical service, academic service, and research service between the 3 Universities in the field of emergency medicine and other related field. The improvement plan will improve the quality of emergency medical service in Southeast Asia region to the next level.

During the signing ceremony there are also special lecture by Prof. Hiramatsu Yuji, University of Tsukuba on the topic “Challenges on Medical Education under COVID-19 in Japan”, Doctor Kamonwon Ienghong, Department of Emergency Medicine, on the topic “Challenges on Medical Education under COVID-19 in Thailand”, and Professor Inoue Yoshiaki, University of Tsukuba, in the topic “Impact of COVID-19 on EMS System in Japan”. Before the end they also discuss about the plan to continue the cooperation and improvement of emergency medical service under the current situation in the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Written by: Natakon Naowarojna

International Relations Office, Research and International Relations Affairs

Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University

On December 18, 2019, Associate Professor Apichat Jiravuttipong, MD, Associate Dean for Hospital Affairs and Director, Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University welcomed Professor Makoto Michikawa, MD, PhD, Dean, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Chairman of Department of Biochemistry, Nagoya City University, Japan and his colleagues: Professor Hideki Murakami, MD, PhD, Chairman of Orthopedics Surgery; and Dr. Masahiro Nozaki, MD, PhD, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, to the MOU Signing Ceremony between Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Japan and Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University at Blood Bank’s Meeting Room, 8^th Floor, Galyani Vadhana Memorial Building, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand.

We would like to express our appreciation to coordinators of this linkage program, namely Associate Professor Supat Sinawat, MD, Associate Dean for International Relations and Cooperation Strategies; Associate Professor Winai Sirichativapee, Head, Department of Orthopedics; Associate Professor Poonsri Rangseekhajee, Head, Department of Psychiatry; Professor Yuichi Kasai, Visiting Professor; and staff of Department of Orthopedics: Associate Professor Taweechoke Wisanuyotin; Associate Professor Surachai Sae-jung; Associate Professor Kriangkrai Wittayapairoj; Dr. Permsak Paholpak; included a staff Department of Psychiatry Dr. Pongsatorn Paholpak, MD.