Faculty of Medicine Welcomes Fifth-Year Medical Students from University of Puthisastra, Cambodia, for Exchange Program

 

On October 7, 2024, the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, welcomed a group of fifth-year medical students from the University of Puthisastra, Cambodia, as they began their exchange program in the departments of Anesthesiology, Psychiatry, Surgery, and Orthopedics. The exchange is scheduled to run from October 8 to 31, 2024.

The students’ first day started with an orientation hosted by the International Relations Office, where they were provided with important details about the faculty, introduced to basic Thai language, and briefed on key locations. They also had the opportunity to meet professors and staff from the departments they will be working with during the exchange.

 

 

In the afternoon, the students used the KKU Transit system to visit key locations around the university, including the Sports Complex, swimming pool, Art Center, Museums, Food and Service Center (KKU Complex), and KKU library.

This exchange program aims to promote academic collaboration and cultural exchange between Khon Kaen University and the University of Puthisastra, enriching the educational experience for all participants.

 

 

 

Chinese Students from Youjiang Medical University Visit Srinagarind Hospital

 

On October 1, 2024, 20 students from Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities in the People’s Republic of China visited Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. This visit was part of a cultural and academic exchange program running from September 26 to October 9, 2024, aimed at providing students with insights into Thai healthcare practices while fostering cultural understanding.

 

 

 

 

During their study tour, the students participated in various activities, including:

  • Observing primary care services and learning about general patient treatment and management of complex medical conditions.
  • Attending a lecture by Assistant Professor Arkhom Bunloet from the Department of Community, Family, and Occupational Medicine, where they gained valuable insights into public health practices.
  • Visiting the Monk Ward, a specialized unit dedicated to the care of monks.
  • Exploring the Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother Museum, where they learned about the significant contributions of the Princess Mother to healthcare and society.

This exchange program allowed the students to deepen their understanding of healthcare and cultural practices in Thailand, enriching their educational experience and fostering collaboration between the two nations.

 

 

Pharmacy Students from Indonesia Visit Srinagarind Hospital

 

On September 30, 2024, a group of pharmacy students from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia, had the opportunity to visit the Pharmacy Department at Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. This study tour aimed to deepen the students’ understanding of hospital pharmaceutical management and enhance their knowledge in the field.

The visit is part of a comprehensive educational exchange program, which began on September 16 and will run until October 5, 2024. Throughout the program, students have been immersed in various aspects of hospital pharmacy operations. They have explored the management of medications and medical supplies, the intricacies of dispensing medications to patients, and the importance of ensuring patient safety through accurate pharmaceutical care. Additionally, the students have observed how pharmacists work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary hospital environment, ensuring the best outcomes for patients.

This visit has not only provided valuable hands-on experience but also allowed the students to witness firsthand how an effective hospital pharmacy department functions. The knowledge and insights gained from this program are expected to significantly contribute to the students’ future professional development as they prepare to enter the field of pharmacy.

 

 

 

Malaysian Surgeon to Undergo Advanced Hepatobiliary Surgery Training at Khon Kaen University

 

On September 30, 2024, Dr. Balakumaran Balaravi Pillai, a specialist in hepatobiliary surgery from Malaysia, was selected to participate in an advanced specialized surgical training program at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, scheduled from September 30 to October 11, 2024. This prestigious training is supported by Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital.

With over six years of experience in general surgery, Dr. Pillai is expanding his expertise in hepatobiliary surgery under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Health, Malaysia. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of improving his surgical skills to benefit patient care in Malaysia. Additionally, he highlighted the recognition of Khon Kaen University as a leading institution in the management of liver and biliary tract cancers, which would further enhance his abilities.

This advanced training program will not only improve Dr. Pillai’s capabilities but also strengthen the ties between healthcare professionals in Thailand and Malaysia. This collaboration is expected to lead to better healthcare outcomes for patients across Southeast Asia, particularly in the area of liver and biliary diseases.

International Exchange Students Complete Program at KKU Faculty of Medicine

 

On September 27, 2024, four international medical exchange students successfully completed their program at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. The students included Mr. Simon Laurent Pellarin, Miss Viktoria Bachmann, and Miss Judith Grasl from the Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria, as well as Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Chuong from Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Vietnam.

On the final day of the exchange, the students presented a summary of their learning experiences and shared insights from their time in Khon Kaen. Their presentations highlighted both the academic and cultural aspects of their exchange. Professor John F. Smith, PhD, an English Specialist from the Division of International Relations and Corporate Communication, was present to provide feedback and comments on the students’ presentations.

A student from the Medical University of Innsbruck remarked, “This exchange has been an eye-opening experience for us. We gained hands-on clinical exposure and were able to learn about the healthcare system in Thailand, which is quite different from our own. The cultural exchange was equally valuable as we were warmly welcomed by everyone at the Faculty of Medicine.”

Similarly, a student from Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine shared, “My time at Khon Kaen University has broadened my perspective, especially in terms of medical practices and teamwork. The support from the faculty and fellow students has been incredible. I will take these experiences with me back to Vietnam.”

In conclusion, the exchange program fostered not only academic growth but also personal development, encouraging students to adapt to new environments and engage with peers from diverse backgrounds. Khon Kaen University continues to provide a nurturing platform for future healthcare professionals from around the world to thrive and contribute to global medical knowledge.

 

 

 

KKU Medical Student and Faculty Member Win International Award at Biomolecular Horizons 2024

 

Khon Kaen, Thailand – Mr. Nutt Trakarnthai, a medical student from the Cho-Kalaphruek Excellent Research Project for Medical Students (CERPMS) cohort 2, and his advisor, Asst. Prof. Charupong Saengboonmee from the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, have won the prestigious first-place award in the international Factor X Video Competition at the Biomolecular Horizons 2024 conference.

This renowned event was co-organized by the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) and the Federation of Asian and Oceanian Biochemists and Molecular Biologists (FAOBMB). It took place from September 22-26, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia.

Their winning entry demonstrated groundbreaking insights into biochemical research, showcasing innovative approaches that impressed an international panel of judges. The competition was part of a broader event that gathered leading scientists and researchers from around the world to discuss advances in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Khon Kaen University celebrates this achievement as a significant milestone, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to excellence in research and its international reputation.

 

Khon Kaen University Strengthens Ties with Lao PDR in Family Medicine Collaboration

 

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.

 

 

 

Faculty of Medicine Hosts Inspiring Event on International Electives: Sharing Global Experiences

 

On September 11, 2024, the International Relations Office of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, organized the event Let’s Go Elective: Sharing is Caring. The event aimed to provide a platform for students who had previously received scholarships for international medical school exchanges to return and share their enriching experiences, while also engaging in discussions with their peers.

The event was officially opened by Assoc. Prof. Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, who addressed the audience and remarked, “Opportunities like these not only broaden academic horizons but also foster personal growth, cultural understanding, and global collaboration, which are vital in today’s interconnected world.” His words resonated deeply with participants, setting an encouraging tone for the rest of the event.

Assoc. Prof. Praew Kotruchin, Vice Dean for Student Development, also honored the event with her presence. She engaged with the students and shared her thoughts, stating, “These experiences help shape the future of our young medical professionals, allowing them to develop a broader perspective and the resilience needed to thrive in a global healthcare environment.”

The event featured a presentation by staff from the International Relations Office introducing the “Let’s Go Elective” scholarship, followed by an inspiring session where students who participated in exchange programs during the 2024 fiscal year shared their experiences in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. These firsthand stories sparked engaging discussions and gave fellow students valuable insights into pursuing their own international academic journeys.

The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, where participants eagerly asked questions about the exchange opportunities and how they could apply for future scholarships, leaving attendees motivated and well-informed about the exciting global opportunities available to them.

This event provided students with a meaningful opportunity to share, learn, and grow, not only academically but also personally. It highlighted the importance of global academic exchange in developing well-rounded, culturally aware medical professionals ready to meet the challenges of a diverse healthcare landscape.

 

 

Khon Kaen University Hosts Japanese Medical Students for Academic Exchange and Training

 

Khon Kaen, Thailand – The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University has welcomed a group of Japanese medical students from Kumamoto Health Science University and Fujita Health University for an academic exchange program. The students will engage in clinical observation and practical training at Srinagarind Hospital and the Queen Sirikit Heart Center of the Northeast from September 7 to 21, 2024.

The exchange students, including Miss Izumi Nishimura and Mr. Shuto Iwakiri from Kumamoto Health Science University, along with Miss Mio Kaneko and Miss Risa Kato from Fujita Health University, will participate in various hands-on sessions. These include learning about physiotherapy, medical laboratory science, and the use of advanced diagnostic tools such as ECG (Electrocardiography) at the hospital’s physical rehabilitation and central blood bank departments​

This program highlights Khon Kaen University’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in medical education and enhancing cross-border academic exchange. It aims to provide students from both countries with valuable insights into innovative treatment techniques and the opportunity to learn about the cultural and medical practices in Thailand​.

As part of its broader mission, Khon Kaen University continues to solidify its role as a regional leader in medical education, offering a platform for future medical professionals to share knowledge and improve healthcare on a global scale.