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Medical Technology International Program Hosts Leadership Camp to Cultivate Student Leadership Skills

Medical Technology International Program Hosts Leadership Camp to Cultivate Student Leadership Skills
On August 19-20, 2023, the Medical Technology International Program orchestrated an impactful international leadership camp at Nakon Si Thammarat's prestigious Grand Park Hotel. The event served as a platform to elevate students' leadership acumen, fostering their growth as future leaders in the medical field.
At the helm of this initiative was Associate Prof. Dr. Voravuth Somsak, Vice President of WU, who played a pivotal role in shaping the camp's direction. Asst. Prof. Dr. Suriyan Sukati, Director of the MT International Program, warmly inaugurated the project with a welcome speech, underscoring the importance of leadership in healthcare.
The camp saw enthusiastic participation from faculty, staff, and students alike, demonstrating a collective commitment to honing leadership skills. This event stands as a testament to the institution's dedication to producing well-rounded medical professionals primed for leadership roles on the global stage.

Global Multiprofessional and Cultural Camp 2023 with SHOWA University, Japan 7-12Aug2023 at Walailak University

Global Multiprofessional and Cultural Camp 2023 with SHOWA University, Japan 7-12Aug2023 at Walailak University
The “Global Multiprofessional and Cultural Camp 2023 with SHOWA University, Japan” was organized by School of Allied Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Center for International Affairs, Walailak University during 7-12Aug2023 at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. This program was held to support international collaboration, student learning and sharing information on healthcare system, healthcare professions which included Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Nursing (NS), Medical Technology (MT) as well as culture between Japan and Thailand. The activities along the program included the visiting primary healthcare, community health, and Walailak University hospital, small group discussion for case study and presentation, cultural exchanges which included stage shows from both universities, the Japanese art of paper folding (origami) and cooking Thai foods, as well as the university and nature tour in Nakhon Si Thammarat.
“Actually, we know each other for several years and this is a great opportunity for us to start the formal academic activity between SHOWA university and Walailak University to enhance and support student learning and allow them to obtain more information on healthcare system, knowledge related to health professions, and gain more experiences on life, culture, and foods.” said by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Dean of School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University. “This is the first academic activity with SHOWA university, we are pleased to share important information related to healthcare profession in particular nursing to get to know each other better and learn more about the role of nursing in the healthcare team in Japan.” added by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Urai Jaraeprapal, Dean of School of Nursing, Walailak University.
“This year, we have 14 SHOWA university students and 3 SHOWA Professors- Prof. Dr.Yoshiko KUDO from International Exchange Center; Prof.Dr.Akiko TANAKA, Chair Department of Nursing; Prof.Dr.Yoshinori KAGAYA, Chair Department of Physical Therapy, School of Nursing and Rehabilitation Sciences, joined this program. In addition, we also recruited Thai buddy from the 2 schools, 4 study programs total 32 Thai buddies to join this event to learn and share knowledge with SHOWA students” said by Asst.Prof.Dr.Rachasak Boonhok, Asst. Dean for International Affairs, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University and Head of this program.
“We organized the welcome and farewell dinner and invited Prof. Sombat Thamrongtanyawong, Walailak University president to give a remark, sharing updated information about Walailak University and the university mission in particular the international collaboration” said by Asst.Prof.Dr.Patnarin Supakorn, Director of Center for International Affairs, Walailak University. “The one-day trip to visit the attractive places in Nakhon Si Thammarat was also set up for students to know more about the atmosphere in Southern part of Thailand” added by K.Sukanlaya Thavonpon, the senior staff from Center for International Affairs, Walailak University.
“We also would like the students to have more experiences at the community health and the primary healthcare that we are working on. Thus, we set up a half-day visit to this community” said by Asst.Prof.Dr. Orapen Sukhavulli, Vice Dean of School of Nursing, Walailak University. “We also added more fun activities, Thai cooking class, for students to learn more about the popular Thai menu i.e. Tom-Yam-Kung and Pad-Thai and also Thai dance” added by Dr. Thidarat Eksirinimit, Asst. Dean for International Affairs, School of Nursing, Walailak University.
The event was a resounding success, exceeding all expectations and leaving a lasting impact on attendees. The meticulous planning, engaging content, and active participation came together seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and meaningful connections. This success not only reflects the dedication of the organizing team but also underscores the enthusiasm and support of all participants who contributed to making it an unforgettable occasion.

Cultivating Excellence: University of Kentucky’s Inspiring Collaboration Nurtures the Future of Medical Technology and International Research

Cultivating Excellence: University of Kentucky's Inspiring Collaboration Nurtures the Future of Medical Technology and International Research

On August 3, 2023, Dr. Luksana Chaiswing, an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky's Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, provided valuable insights into her journey from the University of Wisconsin-Madison to her esteemed position at UK. Her experiences as a student and scientist have shaped her path, and she enthusiastically shared her knowledge with students from the Medical Technology Bilingual program (MT BP), which also included high school students from Mahidol Wittayanusorn School.

The meeting also brought exciting news, as the MT BP students will soon have the chance to embark on internships at UK starting in early 2024. Asst. Prof. Dr. Suriyan Sukati, the director of the Medical Technology (International Program) at the School of Allied Health Sciences, expressed heartfelt gratitude for this remarkable opportunity. The MT International and Bilingual program at the university is set to flourish thanks to this collaboration.

This event highlights the University of Kentucky's dedication to fostering education, research, and international partnerships, making it a hub of learning and opportunity for students and professionals alike.

Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between the Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (MT-SAH-WU) and the Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University (MBLS-CM-CGU)

Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between the Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (MT-SAH-WU) and the Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University (MBLS-CM-CGU)
Academic collaboration established between the Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (MT-SAH-WU) and the Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University (MBLS-CM-CGU). The Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between MT-SAH-WU and MBLS-CM-CGU was held on June 8, 2023 at Chang Gung University, Taoyuan city, Taiwan.
Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (MT-SAH-WU) led by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Dean of School of Allied Health Sciences and the Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University (MBLS-CM-CGU) led by Prof. Dr. Chia-Rui Shen, Chair, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, Chang Gung University, both universities agreed to have an academic collaboration which include staff and student mobility for research, professional training, teaching and learning purposes including attending the international conference, symposium, or seminar organized by WU or CGU.
Assoc.Prof. Dr. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Dean School of Allied Health Sciences, said, “One of the university’s commitments is to conduct studies and research in order to develop new knowledge that can be of benefit to national productivity and help enhancing international competitiveness of Thailand. Our school, the School of Allied Health Sciences, we try our best to respond to the university policy and missions by maintaining international collaboration as well as looking for a new international collaboration. CGU is one of the top private universities in Taoyuan city, Taiwan and in 2023, CGU is ranked #475 by the QS World Universities Rankings and is the top 5 university among the 151 universities in Taiwan.”
“We received a very warm welcome from CGU and everything was extremely well-organized during our study visit. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MT-SAH-WU and MBLS-CM-CGU was also signed. This was our great pleasure that Prof. Dr. Thomas KF Lei, Dean, Office of International Affairs, Prof. Dr. Chia-Rui Shen, Chair, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, Prof. Dr. Ching-Ping Tseng, Chair of the Department’s International Affairs Committee, and member of the department i.e. Prof. Dr. Kowit-Yu Chong, Prof. Dr. Rei-Lin Kuo, Prof. Dr. Hsiu-Chuan Yen, Prof.Dr. Chih-Ching Wu, Assoc.Prof. Dr. Chia-Chen Chang and students joined this activity including the MOU signing ceremony, Laboratory and University tour. We greatly appreciate their time and effort”.
This study activity, led by Asst.Prof. Dr. Moragot Chatatikun, Head of this project, and the Asst. Dean for International Affairs, Asst. Prof. Dr. Rachasak Boonhok, Asst. Dean for International Affairs, Asst.Prof.Dr. Suriyan Sukati, Program Director of Medical Technology International program, Prof.Dr. Hideyuki Majima, Visiting Professor, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Manus Kotpui, Deputy Dean, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Wiyada Kuanhien Klangbud, Head of Medical Technology Clinic, Asst.Prof.Dr. Nichapa Jandee, Head of Research Unit, Ms Sudawan Wanbayor and Ms Maneerat Srisuksai, supporting admin team from School of Allied Health Sciences. We took all of the 2nd year students from Medical Technology International Program and selected 2 students from the Medical Technology Regular Program, 36 students in total to join the study visit at CGU and Chang Gung University Memorial Hospital (CGMH).
“I’m excited and pleased to visit CGU and CGMH. I am really impressed with their hospitality and kindness as well as their research work related to Health Sciences. To CGMH, this place is listed in the top 3 largest hospital in the world, their team work and dedication to take care patients are great in particular the laboratory works responsible by the Medical Technologist. We sincerely appreciate to Asst.Prof.Dr. Chia-Ni Lin, Assistant Professor level R & D Director, Asst.Prof. Huang, Chung-Guei, Chief Medical Technologist and the CGMH team” Yosita Leepromma, the 2nd year MT international program student said.
#Study visit and MOU with CGU #School of Allied Health Sciences #Walailak University #Medical Technology International Program #SAH International Affairs

Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (SAH-WU) and the College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (CBMSE-NYCU)

Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (SAH-WU) and the College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (CBMSE-NYCU)

Academic collaboration established between the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (SAH-WU) and the College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (CBMSE-NYCU). The Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony (MOU) between SAH-WU and CBMSE-NYCU was held on June 9, 2023 at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei city, Taiwan.

Assoc.Prof. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Dean School of Allied Health Sciences, said, “Our school, the School of Allied Health Sciences, we try our best to respond to the university policy and missions by maintaining international collaboration as well as looking for a new international collaboration. National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University is one of the top public universities in Hsinchu City, Taiwan and is ranked #202 by the QS World University Rankings in 2023. This was our great pleasure that NYCU accepted our study visit and agreed to have a MOU for academic cooperation in particular staff and student mobility for research and professional training”. Asst. Prof. Rachasak Boonhok, Asst. Dean for International Affairs, added “We received a very warm welcome from NYCU team led by Prof. Chun-Li Lin, Dean College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Prof. Li-Wei Chou, Deputy Vice President for International Affairs, Prof. Jason C. Huang, Chair Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, Prof. Shr-Jeng Jim Leu, Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, who took us for NYCU Hospital tour, Prof. Yi-Fen Shih, Chair Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology including all faculty and supporting staff.”
This study activity, led by Asst.Prof. Dr. Moragot Chatatikun, Head of this project, and the Asst. Dean for International Affairs, Asst. Prof. Dr. Rachasak Boonhok, Asst. Dean for International Affairs, Asst.Prof. Dr. Suriyan Sukati, Program Director of Medical Technology International program, Prof.Dr. Hideyuki Majima, Visiting Professor, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Manus Kotpui, Deputy Dean, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Wiyada Kuanhien Klangbud, Head of Medical Technology Clinic, Asst.Prof.Dr. Nichapa Jandee, Head of Research Unit, Ms Sudawan Wanbayor and Ms Maneerat Srisuksai, supporting admin team from School of Allied Health Sciences. We took all of the 2nd year students from Medical Technology International Program and selected 2 students from the Medical Technology Regular Program, 36 students in total to join the study visit at NYCU-Yang Ming campus and NYCU Hospital-Lanyang campus.
“The NYCU study visit provided us the excellent knowledge and ideas on the discovery of medical innovations, development of medical devices, laboratory management, and the roles of Taiwan medical Technologists. We learned and shared information regarding the Medical Technologist’s role in Thailand. We are grateful to the all professors, staff, and students at NYCU for sharing information and hospitality. We had a great time there and do hope to welcome NYCU team at Walailak University soon.” Nattawut Lapjaratsangrot, the 2nd year MT international program student said.
#Study visit and MOU with NYCU #School of Allied Health Sciences #Walailak University #Medical Technology International Program #SAH International Affairs

The Medical Technology Bilingual Program organized a short course from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the Academic Building 7, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, to boost English proficiency for 3rd year students.

The Medical Technology Bilingual Program organized a short course from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the Academic Building 7, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, to boost English proficiency for 3rd year students.

The Medical Technology Bilingual Program organized a short course from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the Academic Building 7, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, to boost English proficiency for 3rd year students. The course covered TOEIC test structure, vocabulary self-learning guidelines, and language core topics. Its aim was to enhance students' English language skills for academic writing and international communication. By participating, students gained benefits such as improved TOEIC performance, enhanced academic abilities, and better preparedness for global collaboration and exchange programs. The course empowered students to effectively communicate complex ideas, present persuasive arguments, and engage in research and publishing endeavors. The activity provided a dedicated platform to develop language proficiency in line with the demands of the medical technology field. With a stronger command of English, students can thrive academically, broaden their horizons through international engagement, and contribute effectively to the dynamic realm of medical technology.

Walailak University’s School of Allied Health Sciences Welcomes Professor Des R. Richardson from Griffith University to Discuss Future Academic Collaboration

Walailak University’s School of Allied Health Sciences Welcomes Professor Des R. Richardson from Griffith University to Discuss Future Academic Collaboration

On this occasion, Professor Dr. Sombat briefed Professor Des about Walailak University, which is a public autonomous university in Thailand, categorized as a tier 1 university out of 16 research-intensive universities in this category in the country. Over 90 percent of the teaching staff are certified by AdvanceHE based on the United Kingdom Professional Standard Framework (UKPSF). An update on 27 March 2023 reported that 90.7 percent of the university’s research publications are in Scopus-indexed journals in Quartile 1 and Quartile 2, the highest percentage in Thailand.

“One of the pieces of news that made all of us very happy was that on October 12, 2022, Times Higher Education ranked Walailak University in the World University Rankings for the first time,” said President Sombat.

Associate Professor Dr. Jitbanjong Tangpong, the Acting Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, revealed that the School of Allied Health Sciences cares deeply about promoting internationalization. 
 
“We are honored to have Professor Des R. Richardson from Griffith University, Australia, visit us and participate in the School of Allied Health Sciences International Conference 2023, which was held on March 25. And today, we are having discussions about lecturer and student mobility, joint research publications, and other academic collaborations,” said Dean Jitbanjong.

At present, the School of Allied Health Sciences of Walailak University operates at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The school is in charge of four centers of excellence and research centers: Innovation and Health Products, Melioidosis and Microorganisms, Hematology and Transfusion, and Movement Science and Exercise Research, where the university’s researchers who share the same interests work together to solve problems facing the community and the nation.

During this year, students from the School of Allied Health Sciences have been on exchange programs to many renowned universities, such as the University of Kentucky, USA, and Kitasato University, Japan. And the school also plans to send their fourth-year students on an exchange program to Griffith University, Australia, in the next semester.
News and photos by Settaboot Onphakdee
Division of Corporate Communication

Career Opportunities in Medical Technology Internation program

Career Opportunities in Medical Technology Internation program

On March 6, 2023, the Medical Technology International Camp was held online via Zoom, with Associate Prof. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Ph.D., the Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences, greeting high school students and opening the event. The aim of the camp was to educate high school students about Medical Technology, including what Medical Technologists do and the benefits of choosing Medtech Inter at WU.
During the event, Medtech Inter students demonstrated how to perform a urine test, diabetes tests, and blood tests using artificial arms, giving attendees a hands-on experience of the type of work done in the field.

 

The camp was a huge success, with almost 1,000 students registering to attend. However, due to limited capacity, only 200 students were able to participate in the event. These lucky 100 attendees received a gift set that allowed them to perform tests themselves, including urine tests, diabetes tests, and blood tests.

 

The highlight of the event was Miss Chanittha Noothong, a fourth-year student who shared her inspiring experience interning in Tokyo, Japan. Her experience encouraged many students to consider pursuing a career in Medical Technology and to apply to WU.
At the end of the event, Assistant Prof. Suriyan Sukti, Ph.D., joined the event to say farewell and encourage the students to become part of the WU family.

 

Overall, the Medical Technology International Camp was an incredible opportunity for high school students to learn about the field of Medical Technology and the opportunities available to them at WU. The event left attendees feeling inspired and motivated to pursue their dreams, and we can’t wait to see the impact they will have on the industry in the future.
“We are waiting for you to join our family, “Don’t hesitate to choose us.”

Walailak University’s School of Allied Health Sciences, School of Nursing, and International College of Dentistry welcomed delegates from Showa University, Japan, yesterday at Khaoluang Chamber, Cooperative Education Building. Research collaboration and students and staff mobility were central to the discussion.

Walailak University, Thailand, led by Prof. Surin Maisrikrod, Vice-President for Foreign Affairs and Learning and Teaching Development; Prof. Jitbanjong Tangpong, Dean, School of Allied Health Sciences; Prof. Urai Jaraeprapal, Dean, School of Nursing; and Prof. Sittichai Koontongkaew, Dean, International College of Dentistry, were pleased to welcome the following Showa University executives:

1.Prof. Takashi MIYAZAKI, DDS, PhD,

Showa University, Vice President, Director General of the International Exchange Center;

2.Prof. Akiko TANAKA, R.N., M.N., PhD,

Professor and Chairperson of Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences;

3.Prof. Yoshinori KAGAYA, PT, JSPO-AT, PhD,

Professor and Chairperson of Department of Physical Therapy;

4.Prof. Yoshiko KUDO, MT, BSc., PhD, Professor of the International Exchange Center; from Jan 18-20, 2023.

The event was organized by the International Affairs Team of the School of Allied Health Sciences led by Asst. Prof. Rachasak Boonhok and the School of Nursing as a co-host, led by Dr. Thidarat Eksirinimit. The purpose of the visit was to have a better understanding of the Health Science program of Walailak University, to exchange teaching best practices for effective student learning, and to discuss primary healthcare in Southern Thailand as well as academic activities, which included staff and student exchange and research. The program also included a Walailak University tour and a visit to the primary healthcare facilities in Nakhon Si Thammarat. This was the first step toward international collaboration between the two universities.

 

Walailak University delegation led by the Department of Medical Technology and Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, visits Kitasato University, Tokyo, for academic collaboration in health science knowledge and innovation development

        On September 12th, 2022, the Department of Medical Technology and Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, headed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jitbanjong Tangpong, the dean of the school, Asst. Prof. Dr. Suriyan Sukati, the director of the Medical Technology International and Bilingual Program, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Voravuth Somsak, the vice dean and chairperson of the Medical Technology International and Bilingual Program, Asst. Prof. Dr. Rachasak Boonhok, assistant to the dean for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Parinya Vongvaivanichakul, the head of the Physical Therapy Program, Prof. Dr. Hideyuki Majima, the visiting professor from Japan and five lecturers, one academic officer, and eight students visited the School of Allied Health Sciences at Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan, led by Asst. Prof. Takafumi Ichikawa, MD, PhD, the dean of the school.

       The program is aimed to promote academic education, research, and cultural exchange and forge the sustainable cooperative relationship in academic between the two institutions in order to promote healthcare professionals’ efficiency in terms of ethics, development and exchange of knowledge and innovative mindsets. With these qualities being instilled, we can ensure WU professionals’ abilities to meet the public needs and create sustainable community development as well as the ongoing pursuit of national and international excellence.

       School of Allied Health Science, Walailak University, maintains its commitment to producing health science professionals equipped with professional expertise, ethics and collaborative networks which will optimize exchange of the knowledge and innovations in health science. In the post-COVID 19 era in which physical mobility resumes its regular tracks, the school is accordingly in touch with international institutions and organizations for collaborative development in academics and professional skills.