Keio University Delegation Explores Clinical Research Excellence at Khon Kaen University’s ACRO

 

Professor YONEZAWA Atsushi, Associate Professor AKIYOSHI Takeshi, and Associate Professor MATSUZAKI Juntaro, along with 18 pharmacy students from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, Japan, recently visited Khon Kaen University for a comprehensive study tour and cultural exchange. As part of their visit, the delegation explored the Advanced Clinical Research Organization (ACRO) at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, to gain insights into cutting-edge clinical research and management practices.

 

 

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Ms. Thanitta Udompanit, Deputy Director for Business & General Administration Department (BGAD), ACRO, who provided an overview of the facility’s capabilities and its contributions to global clinical research. ACRO operates as an enterprise unit under the Faculty of Medicine, with the primary mission of delivering internationally recognized clinical research services.

The visit by Keio University’s Faculty of Pharmacy is a testament to the international recognition of ACRO’s capabilities and the collaborative spirit that drives Khon Kaen University’s commitment to academic and professional excellence. The exchange provided an enriching experience for both institutions, fostering opportunities for future collaborations in the field of clinical research.

 

 

 

Khon Kaen University Hosts Romanian Medical Students for Transformative Exchange Program

 

The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University is thrilled to welcome 12 outstanding medical students from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” in Romania as part of the Asian Medical Student Exchange Program (AMSEP). This highly anticipated event, scheduled from August 17th to 26th, 2024, promises to be a dynamic blend of cultural discovery, academic growth, and global networking.

Assistant Professor Supawan Laohasiriwong, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication, officially inaugurated the program, laying the foundation for a week filled with meaningful exchanges and memorable experiences.

 

 

Meet the Participants:

  1. Ana-Maria Dragu
  2. Andrada Nemesis Crisan
  3. Bianca-Ilinca Moroianu
  4. Diana-Ioana Pîrvu
  5. Ioana-Alexandra Ciupan
  6. Letitia Nan
  7. Patricia Bobi
  8. Rucsandra Antonia Brinzea
  9. Teodora-Maria Ciubeica
  10. Alexandru-Constantin Moroianu
  11. Andrei Leonard Giurcă
  12. George Albu

In partnership with the Student Affairs Office and AMSA Club, the program offers an immersive experience designed to enrich participants both culturally and academically, fostering new friendships and professional connections.

 

 

Program Highlights Include:

  • Cultural Immersion: Engage deeply with Thai culture through interactive workshops, traditional ceremonies, and tours of significant cultural landmarks.
  • Medical Exchange: Gain in-depth knowledge of Thai medical practices through specialized lectures, hands-on workshops, and hospital visits focused on areas such as tropical diseases.
  • Community Engagement: Visit the “Lawa Model” project, a renowned community initiative aimed at combating liver fluke disease, offering a unique perspective on public health efforts.
  • Skill Enhancement: Sharpen clinical skills in the Skill Lab and Parasitology Laboratory, with opportunities for reflective learning through group discussions.
  • Networking and Social Events: Connect with peers from around the world during social gatherings, culminating in an exciting farewell celebration.

Khon Kaen University is honored to host these future medical leaders and anticipates that this exchange will inspire further collaboration and mutual understanding between the participating institutions.

 

 

 

Newsletter Issue 2-2567

Medical Students from Austria, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic Begin Exchange Program at Khon Kaen University

 

On August 5, 2024, MDKKU warmly welcomed four exchange medical students from the Medical University of Innsbruck in Austria, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University in Ukraine, and the First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in the Czech Republic. The students are participating in a program to gain clinical skills, observe medical practices, and exchange experiences.

On their first day, the students attended an orientation session organized by the International Relations Office. The morning activities included an introduction to the faculty and curriculum, as well as a basic Thai language lesson covering everyday phrases such as greetings, apologies, thank-yous, and shopping expressions. They then went on a tour of key locations within the faculty, meeting with advisors and staff in their respective departments. In the afternoon, they familiarized themselves with the university’s transportation system, known as KKU Transit, and had the opportunity to ride the shuttle bus to various sites, including Food and Service Center 1 (KKU Complex), the swimming pool, KKU Fitness, the Art and Cultural Center, and the KKU night market, before returning to their dormitories.

This exchange program offers the visiting students not only an opportunity to develop their clinical skills but also a chance to immerse themselves in Thai culture and everyday life. The exposure to new environments and systems, such as KKU Transit and the local food and service centers, enhances their overall learning experience, allowing them to broaden their understanding of healthcare and cultural practices in a different part of the world.

 

 

 

 

Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Welcomes Specialist Gynecologist Dr. Desiree Yap

 

In an exciting development for the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, and Associate Professor Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, are pleased to welcome Dr. Desiree Yap AM, a distinguished Specialist Gynecologist, MBBS FRANZCOG FRCOG MPHTM GAICD. Dr. Yap’s visit, scheduled from July 15th to August 5th, 2024, marks a significant step in our ongoing mission to enhance educational standards and foster international collaboration.

 

 

Dr. Yap, a specialist at the Royal Women’s Hospital’s Dysplasia Unit, renowned for her expertise in abnormal cervical screening, brings a wealth of clinical, research, and teaching experience. Additionally, she serves in the Menopause Unit at Monash Medical Centre Southern Health, making her visit a highly anticipated event for our faculty and students.

Throughout her visit, Dr. Yap will deliver impactful lectures aimed at raising the standards of both pre-degree and post-degree education, aligning with our goal of internationalization. She will also explore opportunities for international collaborative research projects, providing valuable academic support in developing postgraduate studies and supervising staff and postgraduate students in related fields.

This prestigious visit is facilitated by the dedicated efforts of Associate Professor Waraluk Sombunpon from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Their commitment to fostering international relationships and enhancing the academic environment at Khon Kaen University is greatly appreciated.

We are thrilled to host Dr. Yap and look forward to the invaluable insights and advancements her visit will bring to our institution.

 

 

 

MDKKU Strengthens Global Ties with USAC: A New Era of Collaboration in Health Sciences

 

On July 26, 2024, representatives from the Office of International Affairs at Khon Kaen University (KKU) hosted Ms. Chaidarun Tippawan, Director of the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) Thailand Programs, for a significant meeting with the Faculty of Medicine’s representatives.

The discussions were led by Assistant Professor Supawan Laohasiriwong, MD, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication, alongside Associate Professor Watcharin Loilome, Director of the Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, and Associate Professor Sutas Suttiprapa, Head of the Department of Tropical Medicine.

The primary focus of the meeting was to explore academic cooperation opportunities, particularly in student exchange programs and professional training experiences. The collaboration aims to enhance knowledge and understanding in public health and health sciences through joint educational initiatives and partnerships within Khon Kaen University.

Since its establishment in 1982, USAC, a non-profit organization, has provided life-changing opportunities for students to live and learn across various countries worldwide. With over 50 international study programs across various countries, USAC is committed to providing students with countless opportunities to experience life abroad and become global citizens.

This meeting highlights Khon Kaen University’s dedication to building global partnerships and advancing excellence in health sciences. By fostering international collaboration, the university aims to enrich educational experiences and drive innovation in public health, ultimately benefiting both the local and global communities.

 

 

 

Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute Hosts Forum for Sustainable Solutions to Liver Fluke and Cholangiocarcinoma

 

On July 22, 2024, the Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute (CARI) held an event titled “Research Towards Sustainable Solutions for Liver Fluke and Cholangiocarcinoma” at the SCI POWER FOR FUTURE THAILAND fair at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

Assoc. Prof. Watcharin Loilome, the Director of the Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, stated, “Cholangiocarcinoma poses a significant health threat to Thais, particularly in the northeastern region, where the incidence of this disease is high. The primary cause is liver fluke infection, which is a major risk factor. Therefore, it is crucial to study and research this disease to develop more effective prevention and treatment methods and to reduce its impact on public health.”

She added, “Research in this area is not only focused on understanding the causes and prevention of the disease but also on developing new technologies and innovations for diagnosing and treating cholangiocarcinoma. This will help increase survival rates and improve the quality of life for patients. Collaboration among researchers, doctors, and related organizations is essential in building a comprehensive and sustainable healthcare system for the people in this region.”

The event featured key activities, including a special lecture on “A Decade of Addressing Liver Fluke and Cholangiocarcinoma Towards a Sustainable Future,” which presented strategies and visions for sustainably addressing these health issues in the coming decade. Additionally, there was a panel discussion on “Developing Research for Sustainable Solutions to Liver Fluke and Cholangiocarcinoma in Thailand,” aimed at finding more effective prevention and treatment methods. The discussion involved exchanging key insights and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, leading to the development of skilled professionals ready to face the challenges and changes of the modern world for sustainable economic and social development.

The event garnered significant attention from government agencies, the private sector, and the general public. It marked an important step in advancing medical research and innovation to improve the health of the Thai population, providing new hope in the fight against liver fluke and cholangiocarcinoma effectively and sustainably. This collective effort not only enhances knowledge and understanding but also inspires the development of a workforce equipped to tackle future challenges with resilience.