Mr. Shogo Fukui, an expert in cardiovascular physical therapy and Head of the Therapy Team at the Critical Unit (CU) and High Care Unit (HCU) from Keio University, Japan, visited the Physical Therapy Unit, Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, from February 4 to 6, 2025.
The primary objectives of this visit were to study the medical rehabilitation systems in Thailand, understand the role of physical therapists within interdisciplinary medical teams, exchange innovations and research in the rehabilitation department, and explore the involvement of physical therapists in critical care settings.
This visit provided a unique opportunity for international collaboration and knowledge sharing, further advancing rehabilitation practices in both Thailand and Japan. The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University continues to foster global ties and enhance medical education through such enriching exchanges.
ผู้เชี่ยวชาญด้านกายภาพบำบัดหัวใจและหลอดเลือด จาก Keio University ประเทศญี่ปุ่นแลกเปลี่ยนทางวิชาการ ณ โรงพยาบาลศรีนครินทร์
The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University (KKU) was honored to host Professor Robert Carroll, a globally renowned expert in kidney transplantation from the University of South Australia and Senior Consultant at Royal Adelaide Hospital. On February 3, 2025, Professor Carroll delivered an insightful lecture on “Managing Blood Group Incompatible Kidney Transplantation: Crossing HLA Antibodies and Managing HLA Labs”, shedding light on one of the most challenging aspects of organ transplantation.
Held at the Clinical Simulation Training Center, Princess Galyani Vadhana Memorial Building, the event brought together leading nephrologists, transplant surgeons, hematologists, and blood bank specialists from across Thailand, making it a milestone in advancing transplant medicine in the region.
Breaking Barriers in Kidney Transplantation
Professor Carroll’s lecture addressed the complexities of blood group-incompatible kidney transplantation, a frontier that has revolutionized the field. He shared insights into HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) antibody management, a crucial factor in preventing transplant rejection. Among the cutting-edge techniques discussed were Virtual Crossmatching, which enhances compatibility assessments, and the detection of non-HLA antibodies, which play a significant role in transplant rejection.
Highlighting breakthrough approaches to tackling antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) and post-transplant complications such as BKV-associated nephropathy (BKVAN), Professor Carroll’s session was a masterclass in the evolving landscape of transplant immunology. His insights provided attendees with innovative strategies to optimize patient outcomes and improve the longevity of transplanted organs.
A Warm Welcome and Strengthened International Collaboration
Prior to the lecture, Professor Carroll and Dr. Twarath Sutabutr, a distinguished Khon Kaen University Council Member, were warmly welcomed by Associate Professor Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine. The event was graced by key university leaders, including:
Associate Professor Sirirat Anutrakulchai, Vice Dean for Research and Innovation
Associate Professor Daris Theerakulpisut, Assistant Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication
Assistant Professor Chinadol Wanitpongpun, Director of the Central Blood Bank
Assistant Professor Wiyada Punjaruk, Director of the Cellular Therapy Center
During the welcoming ceremony, tokens of appreciation were exchanged, symbolizing the commitment to fostering academic and medical collaboration between institutions. Discussions centered on joint research, faculty exchange programs, and future collaborative transplantation projects between Khon Kaen University and the University of South Australia.
Exploring KKU’s World-Class Medical Facilities
Following the lecture, Professor Carroll and Dr. Twarath toured Khon Kaen University’s specialized medical units, gaining firsthand insight into Thailand’s growing expertise in transplantation medicine. Their tour included:
Nephrology and Dialysis Unit – A hub for cutting-edge renal care and transplantation follow-up
Cellular Therapy Center – Pioneering stem cell research and regenerative medicine
Central Blood Bank – A key facility supporting transfusion and transplantation services
The visit underscored KKU’s commitment to medical innovation and international collaboration, positioning Thailand as a growing hub for advanced transplantation and hematology.
Towards a Future of Transplantation Excellence
Professor Carroll’s visit to Khon Kaen University marks a significant step in elevating Thailand’s role in the global transplantation community. By embracing international expertise and fostering research-driven innovations, KKU continues to pave the way for groundbreaking medical advancements.
As Thailand continues to strengthen its medical capabilities, collaborations like this will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of kidney transplantation and improving patient outcomes worldwide. With the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University emerging as a regional leader in transplant medicine, it may not be long before Thailand becomes Southeast Asia’s premier center for organ transplantation.
ศาสตราจารย์ Robert Carroll ร่วมบรรยายสุดพิเศษที่คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มข. เปิดมุมมองใหม่ในการปลูกถ่ายไตข้ามหมู่เลือด
คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น (มข.) ได้รับเกียรติจาก ศาสตราจารย์ Robert Carroll ผู้เชี่ยวชาญระดับโลกด้านการปลูกถ่ายไตจาก University of South Australia และที่ปรึกษาอาวุโสจากโรงพยาบาล Royal Adelaide มาเป็นวิทยากรพิเศษในหัวข้อ “Managing blood group incompatible kidney transplantation: Crossing HLA antibodies and managing HLA labs” (การบริหารจัดการการปลูกถ่ายไตข้ามหมู่เลือด การจัดการแอนติบอดี HLA และห้องปฏิบัติการ HLA) เมื่อวันที่ 3 กุมภาพันธ์ 2568 ณ ห้องประชุม ชั้น 5 อาคารสมเด็จพระศรีนครินทราบรมราชชนนี
On February 3, 2024, the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), had the honor of welcoming Prof. Carolyn M. Slupsky from the Department of Nutrition and the Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California. Her visit provided an opportunity for discussions with Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, on academic collaboration in the fields of nutrition and food science.
During this visit, the Dean, along with the faculty’s executives and staff, warmly welcomed Prof. Slupsky and engaged in a fruitful exchange of ideas regarding research and knowledge development in nutrition and food science, which play a crucial role in healthcare and medicine.
This discussion marked an important step in strengthening academic collaboration between leading global institutions, paving the way for research advancements and innovations that can be applied to public health and medical fields in the future. The Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, remains committed to fostering international partnerships, promoting knowledge exchange, and advancing research that benefits the medical and healthcare sectors.
Written by Miss Sumitta Buaphaeng, Cooperative Education Students
คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มข. ให้การต้อนรับ Prof. Carolyn M. Slupsky จาก University of California เสริมสร้างความร่วมมือด้านโภชนาการและวิทยาศาสตร์การอาหาร
เมื่อวันที่ 3 กุมภาพันธ์ 2567 ที่ผ่านมา คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ให้การต้อนรับ Prof. Carolyn M. Slupsky จาก Department of Nutrition and Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California สหรัฐอเมริกา ในโอกาสเดินทางมาเยือนและพบปะหารือกับ รศ.นพ.ภัทรพงษ์ มกรเวส คณบดีคณะแพทยศาสตร์ เพื่อหารือแนวทางความร่วมมือทางวิชาการด้านโภชนาการและวิทยาศาสตร์การอาหาร
ในการเยือนครั้งนี้ คณบดีคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น พร้อมคณะผู้บริหารและบุคลากร ได้ให้การต้อนรับ Prof. Carolyn M. Slupsky อย่างอบอุ่น พร้อมแลกเปลี่ยนความคิดเห็นเกี่ยวกับงานวิจัยและแนวทางการพัฒนาองค์ความรู้ด้านโภชนาการและวิทยาศาสตร์การอาหาร ซึ่งมีบทบาทสำคัญต่อการดูแลสุขภาพและการแพทย์
Medicine is more than a science—it is a bridge that connects knowledge, cultures, and friendships across borders. At the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), Thailand, international medical students from Laos, Japan, and Indonesia embarked on a transformative journey through the Medical Exchange Program, held from January 6–31, 2025.
This initiative not only provided participants with hands-on clinical training under expert physicians but also immersed them in Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, fostering a deeper connection between medicine and tradition.
A Global Collaboration in Medical Education
This year’s exchange welcomed distinguished participants, including Dr. Vilaphon Phanthaly and Dr. Soulideth Xongchacksinh from the University of Health Sciences, Laos; Ms. Momoka Yoshino from Gifu University, Japan; Ms. Felicia Averine from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia; and a group of medical students from Nagoya City University, Japan, namely Ms. Ami Suzuki, Ms. Ayane Tokumaru, Ms. Natsumi Fukushima, Ms. Yuriko Akashi, Mr. Taishi Masutani, Mr. Takayuki Matsui, and Mr. Takehiro Ando.
These future medical professionals engaged in Emergency Medicine, Surgery, and Orthopedics at Srinagarind Hospital, gaining insight into Thailand’s healthcare system, enhancing their clinical skills, and working alongside Thai medical teams.
Where Medicine Meets Culture
Beyond clinical training, the exchange fostered a deep cultural appreciation through engaging activities with Thai cooperative education students from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University: Miss Sumitta Buaphaeng, Miss Ratchanikon Thatuwisai, Miss Kotchakorn Onjangreed (Eastern Languages, Chinese Major), Mr. Patiwat Srisaard and Miss Korakod Onjangreed (Thai Language Major)
Through their guidance, international students explored Thai traditions while sharing their own cultural heritage, creating an environment of mutual learning and friendship.
🔹 The Delicate Art of Pandan Leaf Folding – Thai students introduced the intricate craft of folding pandan leaves into floral designs, a symbol of Thai craftsmanship and hospitality.
🔹 Origami: A Symbol of Peace and Precision – Japanese students shared the art of origami, folding paper into delicate cranes and other symbolic shapes that represent patience, harmony, and hope.
🔹 Lao Folk Songs and Traditional Dance – Students from Laos showcased folk music and traditional dance, offering a glimpse into their nation’s vibrant cultural identity and storytelling through movement.
🔹 A Taste of Indonesia: Kue Talam – Indonesian students prepared Kue Talam, a traditional dessert with a soft, coconut-rich texture similar to Thailand’s “Tako”, further highlighting the shared culinary traditions of Southeast Asia.
This cross-cultural exchange fostered meaningful connections, mutual respect, and a sense of unity that extended beyond the hospital walls.
More Than Just an Exchange—A Lifetime Connection
This program was more than just medical training—it was a platform for building lifelong friendships and international collaboration. Through this experience, students gained not only medical expertise but also an appreciation for cultural diversity and shared humanity in the field of healthcare.
Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine congratulates all participants on their successful completion of the program and hopes that the knowledge, skills, and friendships cultivated here will strengthen international medical partnerships for years to come.
“Medicine knows no borders… and neither does friendship.”
โครงการนี้มีนักศึกษาแพทย์จากหลากหลายสถาบันเข้าร่วม ได้แก่ Dr. Vilaphon Phanthaly และ Dr. Soulideth Xongchacksinh จาก University of Health Sciences, สปป.ลาว, Ms. Momoka Yoshino จาก Gifu University, ญี่ปุ่น, Ms. Felicia Averine จาก Universitas Gadjah Mada, อินโดนีเซีย, และกลุ่มนักศึกษาแพทย์จาก Nagoya City University, ญี่ปุ่น ซึ่งรวมถึง Ms. Ami Suzuki, Ms. Ayane Tokumaru, Ms. Natsumi Fukushima, Ms. Yuriko Akashi, Mr. Taishi Masutani, Mr. Takayuki Matsui และ Mr. Takehiro Ando
Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Medicine continues to strengthen global academic collaboration by welcoming medical students and residents from Laos, Japan, and Indonesia to its Elective Exchange Program and Clinical Exchange Program from January 6 – 31, 2025.
Over the course of the program, students gained hands-on clinical experience in Emergency Medicine, Surgery, and Orthopedics, working alongside Thai medical professionals at Srinagarind Hospital, one of Thailand’s leading teaching hospitals. The initiative not only enhances medical expertise but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and global networking among future healthcare professionals.
Distinguished Participants
This year’s program featured a diverse group of medical trainees:
🔹 Emergency Medicine (January 6 – 31, 2025)
Dr. Vilaphon Phanthaly and Dr. Soulideth Xongchacksinh, 3rd-year Emergency Medicine Resident, University of Health Sciences, Laos
🔹 Surgery (January 7 – 31, 2025)
Ms. Momoka Yoshino, 5th-year medical student, Gifu University, Japan
Ms. Felicia Averine, 4th-year medical student, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia
🔹 Orthopedics (January 21 – 31, 2025)
Ms. Ami Suzuki, Ms. Ayane Tokumaru, Ms. Natsumi Fukushima, Ms. Yuriko Akashi, Mr. Taishi Masutani, Mr. Takayuki Matsui, and Mr. Takehiro Ando, all 5th-year medical students from Nagoya City University, Japan
Bridging Medical Knowledge and Cultural Exchange
Participants engaged in lectures, clinical rotations, and hands-on training in real hospital settings, observing patient care, surgical procedures, and emergency response techniques unique to Thailand’s healthcare system.
Beyond clinical learning, the exchange program played a key role in building international medical networks. Students interacted with Thai medical teams and fellow trainees from different backgrounds, sharing insights into their home countries’ healthcare approaches and treatment methods.
A Stepping Stone for Global Healthcare Cooperation
Khon Kaen University congratulates all exchange participants on their successful completion of the program. The university remains committed to fostering academic and professional partnerships across borders, ensuring that future medical professionals are well-equipped to meet global healthcare challenges.
With initiatives like this, it continues to position itself as a hub for international medical education, attracting students from around the world and strengthening its reputation as a leader in global healthcare collaboration.
Written by Mr. Patiwat Srisaad, Cooperative Education Student, Khon Kaen University
On January 29, 2025, the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (MDKKU), had the honor of welcoming Visiting Professor Shi-Uk Lee from Seoul National University, Korea. His visit aimed to discuss academic collaboration in rehabilitation medicine, a field with great potential for advancing medical innovation and patient care between the two institutions.
Professor Shi-Uk Lee is a renowned expert in rehabilitation medicine and currently holds a position at Seoul National University, one of South Korea’s leading universities. He has played a crucial role in driving research in rehabilitation medicine and developing new techniques and technologies for patient treatment.
The meeting was attended by key administrators from the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, including Assoc. Prof. Warachaya Phanphruk, Assistant for International Relations and Corporate Communication; Associate Professor Nuttaset Manimmanakorn, Head of the Rehabilitation Medicine Department; and Assistant Professor Ratana Vichiansiri, Deputy Head of the Rehabilitation Medicine Department.
Discussions focused on potential areas of collaboration at various levels—university-wide, faculty-wide, and departmental—emphasizing the development of academic and research partnerships. The two institutions explored the possibility of establishing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to facilitate academic exchange and joint research projects. Such collaboration would contribute to medical innovations with global applicability.
This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening academic relations between the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, and Seoul National University. It paves the way for further research and educational development while offering opportunities for students and medical professionals to participate in international exchange programs.
คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มข. และ Seoul National University ร่วมหารือแนวทางพัฒนาความร่วมมือด้านเวชศาสตร์ฟื้นฟู
เมื่อวันที่ 29 มกราคม 2568 คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ได้รับเกียรติจาก Visiting Professor Shi-Uk Lee จาก Seoul National University ประเทศเกาหลีใต้ ซึ่งเดินทางมาเยือนเพื่อหารือความร่วมมือทางวิชาการด้านเวชศาสตร์ฟื้นฟู อันเป็นสาขาที่มีศักยภาพในการพัฒนานวัตกรรมทางการแพทย์และการดูแลผู้ป่วยร่วมกันระหว่างทั้งสองสถาบัน
ศาสตราจารย์ Shi-Uk Lee เป็นผู้เชี่ยวชาญด้านเวชศาสตร์ฟื้นฟูที่มีชื่อเสียงระดับนานาชาติ ปัจจุบันดำรงตำแหน่งที่ Seoul National University ซึ่งเป็นมหาวิทยาลัยชั้นนำของเกาหลีใต้ และมีบทบาทสำคัญในการผลักดันงานวิจัยด้านเวชศาสตร์ฟื้นฟู ตลอดจนการพัฒนาเทคนิคและเทคโนโลยีใหม่ ๆ ในการรักษาผู้ป่วย
ความร่วมมือครั้งนี้ถือเป็นก้าวสำคัญในการเสริมสร้างความสัมพันธ์ทางวิชาการระหว่างคณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่นและ Seoul National University ซึ่งจะนำไปสู่โอกาสในการพัฒนางานวิจัยและการเรียนการสอนในอนาคต รวมถึงการเปิดโอกาสให้นักศึกษาและบุคลากรทางการแพทย์ได้มีส่วนร่วมในโครงการแลกเปลี่ยนระดับนานาชาติอีกด้วย
On January 28, 2025, a delegation from the National University of Laos (NUOL), alongside representatives from various academic and governmental institutions in Laos, visited the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (MDKKU) to discuss potential collaborations in education, public health, and tropical medicine. The visit was marked by insightful discussions, knowledge exchange, and an exploration of opportunities for joint research and academic initiatives.
Distinguished Delegates
The NUOL delegation was led by Dr. Kongsy Chounlamany, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education, NUOL, and included key academic figures such as Associate Professor Sachi Tomokawa, Department of Sports and Sciences (School Health), Faculty of Education, Shinshu University, Japan, and Associate Professor Takeshi Akiyama, Nagano College of Nursing, Japan. Representatives from Champasak Provincial Educational and Health Offices, Pakse Teacher Training College, and district-level educational and health offices in Champasak Province also participated in the visit.
From KKU, Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, extended a warm welcome to the delegation. Other notable participants included Professor Banchob Sripa, Director of the Tropical Disease Research Center, and Associate Professor Sutas Suttiprapa, Head of the Department of Tropical Medicine.
Opening Remarks
The visit commenced with a welcome speech by Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Vice Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, emphasizing KKU’s commitment to fostering academic partnerships and enhancing international collaboration. He stated, “We are honored to welcome our esteemed colleagues from NUOL and look forward to meaningful discussions that will strengthen our collaboration.”
In response, Associate Professor Sachi Tomokawa expressed gratitude for the warm reception, saying, “This visit is a valuable opportunity for us to learn from each other and explore future joint initiatives.” Associate Professor Takeshi Akiyama added, “We appreciate the platform provided by KKU to discuss crucial academic and research developments.” Dr. Kongsy Chounlamany also remarked, “Collaboration between our institutions will lead to significant advancements in education and public health.”
Discussion on Future Collaboration
A key highlight of the visit was the discussion on future collaboration, particularly in the field of tropical medicine and community health.
Prof. Banchob Sripa, Director of the Tropical Disease Research Center, introduced the Lawa Model, a successful community-based approach for controlling liver fluke infections in Thailand, and proposed its adaptation for implementation in Laos. He emphasized, “The Lawa Model has proven effective in Thailand, and we believe it can serve as a foundation for impactful research and development projects in Laos.”
Dr. Nanthasane Vannavong, Deputy Director, Champasak Provincial Health Office, presented a project aimed at enhancing and developing the Lawa Model in Laos, stating, “Our goal is to tailor the Lawa Model to the specific needs of Laos, ensuring its sustainability and effectiveness.”
Dr. Xayapheth Chaphichith, Deputy Director, Department of Teacher Education, NUOL, highlighted that the successful implementation of the Lawa Model in Laos would require the cooperation and engagement of all relevant stakeholders. He noted, “For this model to succeed, collaboration between government agencies, academic institutions, and local communities is essential.”
Assoc. Prof. Sutas Suttiprapa, Head of the Department of Tropical Medicine, reaffirmed KKU’s readiness to support the project through technical expertise, academic resources, and joint research initiatives. He stated, “KKU is fully committed to providing the necessary support to ensure the success of this collaborative effort in Laos.”
The visit of the NUOL delegation to MDKKU marked an important step in strengthening academic ties and fostering regional collaboration in education, public health, and tropical medicine. Both institutions expressed their commitment to exploring further opportunities for research partnerships and knowledge-sharing initiatives that will benefit both Thailand and Laos. Future discussions and project planning sessions are expected to follow, solidifying the collaborative efforts between the two universities and their partners.
This academic visit reflects the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges and enhancing educational frameworks for sustainable development in the region.
ญี่ปุ่น-ลาว-ไทย ขยายความร่วมมือ Lawa Model และแลกเปลี่ยนทางวิชาการ ณ คณะแพทย์ฯ มข
คณะผู้แทนจาก National University of Laos นำโดย Dr. Kongsy Chounlamany รักษาการคณบดีคณะศึกษาศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยแห่งชาติลาว พร้อมด้วยนักวิชาการชั้นนำ ได้แก่ Associate Professor Sachi Tomokawa, Department of Sports and Sciences (School Health), Faculty of Education, Shinshu University ประเทศญี่ปุ่น และ Associate Professor Takeshi Akiyama, Nagano College of Nursing ประเทศญี่ปุ่น นอกจากนี้ยังมีตัวแทนจาก หน่วยงานด้านการศึกษาและสาธารณสุขแขวงจำปาสัก วิทยาลัยฝึกหัดครูปากเซ และสำนักงานการศึกษาและสาธารณสุขระดับอำเภอในแขวงจำปาสัก เข้าร่วมด้วย
Dr. Nanthasane Vannavong รองผู้อำนวยการสำนักงานสาธารณสุขแขวงจำปาสัก ได้นำเสนอแผนโครงการที่มีเป้าหมายเพื่อประยุกต์ใช้ Lawa Model ในประเทศลาว โดยกล่าวว่า “เป้าหมายของเราคือการปรับใช้ Lawa Model ให้เหมาะสมกับบริบทของลาว เพื่อให้เกิดความยั่งยืนและมีประสิทธิภาพ”
Dr. Xayapheth Chaphichith รองผู้อำนวยการกรมการศึกษาครู มหาวิทยาลัยแห่งชาติลาว เน้นย้ำถึงความสำคัญของความร่วมมือจากทุกฝ่าย โดยกล่าวว่า “การนำ Lawa Model ไปใช้ให้เกิดผลจริงในลาว จำเป็นต้องอาศัยความร่วมมือจากหน่วยงานภาครัฐ สถาบันการศึกษา และชุมชนท้องถิ่น”
On Monday, 27 January 2025, a distinguished delegation from Japan and Laos visited Khon Kaen Province to study the innovative “Lawa Model”, a community-driven approach to combating liver fluke infection and associated cancer. The delegation included representatives from Shinshu University, Nagano College of Nursing, the National University of Laos, and Champasak Province’s education and health sectors.
The delegation was led by prominent figures such as Associate Professor Sachi Tomokawa from Shinshu University, Associate Professor Takeshi Akiyama from Nagano College of Nursing, and Dr. Kongsy Chounlamany, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education, National University of Laos. They were joined by provincial and district health and education officials from Champasak Province.
Morning Highlights
The visit began with a briefing at the Khon Kaen Primary Education Service Area Office 2 in Ban Phai District, followed by an in-depth session at Lawa Village’s Health Promoting Hospital (HPH). The hospital director warmly welcomed the delegates before Professor Banchob Sripa presented an overview of liver fluke-related health issues and the pioneering “Lawa Model”. This model integrates disease prevention, health education, animal reservoir and environmental management to tackle liver fluke infections, a significant public health concern in the region.
At Lawa School, the group observed the “Liver Fluke–Free School” program, an educational initiative aimed at fostering health awareness among young students.
Immersive Afternoon Experience
In the afternoon, the delegation visited Lawa Lake to experience the practical applications of the Lawa Model. Activities included a live demonstration by village health volunteers on integrated liver fluke control efforts and a showcase of rural northeastern lifestyles.
Highlights of the visit included:
Traditional Fish Catching Demonstration: Local fishermen displayed their fishing techniques.
Cooking Demonstration: Delegates learned how to prepare the popular yet high-risk local dish “Koi Pla”, emphasizing safe cooking practices to prevent liver fluke infection.
Animal Reservoir Management: Associate Professor Sirikachorn Tangkawattana from Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine explained measures to manage animal hosts in the transmission cycle of liver flukes.
Environmental Modifications: The group explored sustainable approaches to modifying the local environment to minimize disease risks.
A Model for Global Collaboration
The visit underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing public health challenges. Delegates praised the holistic nature of the Lawa Model, which integrates health promotion, education, and environmental sustainability. The insights gained are expected to inspire similar initiatives in Laos and beyond, fostering greater regional cooperation in public health innovation.
เมื่อวันจันทร์ที่ 27 มกราคม 2568 คณะผู้แทนจากญี่ปุ่นและลาวได้เดินทางเยือนจังหวัดขอนแก่น เพื่อศึกษารูปแบบนวัตกรรม “Lawa Model” ซึ่งเป็นแนวทางที่ขับเคลื่อนโดยชุมชนในการต่อสู้กับโรคพยาธิใบไม้ตับ คณะผู้แทนประกอบด้วย Associate Professor Sachi Tomokawa จาก Shinshu University Associate Professor Takeshi Akiyama จาก Nagano College of Nursing และ Dr. Kongsy Chounlamany รักษาการคณบดี คณะศึกษาศาสตร์ของ National University of Laos พร้อมทั้งผู้บริหารองค์กรด้านสาธารณสุขและการศึกษา แขวงจำปาสัก สปป. ลาว
On January 24, 2025, at the Udon Tantisunthorn Conference Room, College of Local Administration, Khon Kaen University, a warm welcome ceremony was held for H.E. Mr. Athsaphangthong Siphandone, the Governor of Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, and his delegation during their official visit to Khon Kaen Province. The ceremony was attended by Associate Professor Thuss Sanguansak, Associate Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, who also extended a warm welcome to the delegation.
This visit marked another important step under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Khon Kaen Province and Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Khon Kaen University plays a pivotal role in advancing cooperation in medicine and public health. The Faculty of Medicine has been working closely with health agencies in Laos to enhance healthcare capabilities in border areas and facilitates the exchange of knowledge and medical personnel.
In addition, the delegation discussed cooperation on various fronts, including education enhancement, agriculture and the environment, economic development and investment, smart city development, and local public administration. This cooperation not only strengthens the relationship between Khon Kaen and Vientiane but also creates opportunities for sustainable development, ultimately improving the quality of life for people in the region and enhancing the strength of the ASEAN community in the future.
Written by Miss Sumitta Buapaeng, Miss Ratchanikon Thatuwisai Cooperative Education Intern
On January 20, 2025, the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (MDKKU) warmly welcomed seven fifth-year medical students from Nagoya City University, Japan, as part of a clinical exchange program. The program, focusing on the Department of Orthopedics, runs from January 21 to 30, 2025. The participating students are:
Miss Ami Suzuki
Miss Ayane Tokumaru
Miss Natsumi Fukushima
Mr. Taishi Masutani
Mr. Takehiro Ando
Mr. Takayuki Matsui
Miss Yuriko Akashi
On their first day, the students participated in an orientation session organized by the International Relations Office of the Faculty of Medicine. The session included:
An introduction to Khon Kaen University and its Faculty of Medicine
A campus tour to visit key landmarks
A hands-on experience with the university’s public transit system, KKU Smart Transit (KST)
Basic Thai language lessons to facilitate daily communication
This exchange program aims to provide Japanese medical students with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience in orthopedics while fostering cultural understanding and strengthening the academic ties between Thailand and Japan. The program also serves as a platform to promote academic collaboration and joint medical research beneficial to both countries.
The Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University hopes that this exchange program will serve as a vital foundation for expanding educational partnerships and fostering knowledge exchange in medicine, benefiting students, faculty, and medical professionals in both Thailand and Japan.
Written by Miss Korakod Onjangreed, Cooperative Education Intern
นักศึกษาแพทย์จาก Nagoya City University ประเทศญี่ปุ่นแลกเปลี่ยนประสบการณ์ทางคลินิกที่คณะแพทย์ฯ มข
เมื่อวันที่ 20 มกราคม 2568 คณะแพทยศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยขอนแก่น ได้ให้การต้อนรับนักศึกษาแพทย์ชั้นปีที่ 5 จำนวน 7 คน จาก Nagoya City University ประเทศญี่ปุ่น ในโครงการแลกเปลี่ยนเพื่อเรียนรู้ประสบการณ์ทางคลินิก ณ สาขาวิชาออร์โธปิดิกส์ ระหว่างวันที่ 21-30 มกราคม 2568 นักศึกษาที่เข้าร่วมโครงการประกอบไปด้วย
