The School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University (WU), and the Faculty of Health Sciences, Kyoto Tachibana University (KTU), Japan, have officially strengthened their academic collaboration through an MOU signing ceremony held at KTU on March 6, 2025. This agreement aims to enhance student exchanges, faculty development, and joint research initiatives, fostering long-term cooperation between the two institutions in health sciences.
The executive team from Walailak University, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Voravuth Somsak, Acting Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences, played a key role in discussions with Kyoto Tachibana University leadership to enhance academic collaboration. The talks focused on advancing learning and teaching strategies, curriculum development for graduate programs, and potential research initiatives. Joining the discussions were Asst. Prof. Dr. Orawan Sarakul, Acting Vice Dean for Quality Assurance and Education Development; Asst. Prof. Dr. Anoma Santiworakul, Acting Vice Dean for Student Affairs and Development; Asst. Prof. Dr. Nurdina Charong, Head of Medical Technology; Dr. Parinya Vongvaivanichakul, Head of Physical Therapy; Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirirat Surinkaew, Director of the Medical Technology (International Program); and Asst. Prof. Dr. Suriyan Sukati, Head of the Project and Secretary of International Affairs for the School.
During the visit, the WU team toured KTU’s health sciences facilities, including the Emergency Medical Sciences, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Medical Technology and Sciences departments. Both universities exchanged insights on their academic programs, research priorities, and quality assurance processes. The visit also included a series of discussions and networking sessions to strengthen ties between faculty members and explore future collaborative projects.
During a formal session, both institutions highlighted their academic strengths. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Voravuth Somsak shared Walailak University’s advancements in health sciences, international partnerships, and research initiatives, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kohki Okada outlined Kyoto Tachibana University’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and student exchange.
The highlight of the visit was the MOU signing ceremony, where Assoc. Prof. Dr. Voravuth Somsak and Prof. Dr. Jun Horie officially signed the agreement, symbolizing a shared commitment to academic cooperation. Senior faculty members from both universities witnessed the signing, followed by a commemorative photo session. Following the ceremony, both institutions reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening academic collaboration through student exchange programs, faculty development initiatives, and joint research projects in allied health sciences.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Ratchasak Boonhok, Assistant Dean for International Affairs, emphasized that this partnership will expand global learning opportunities, foster academic innovation, and contribute to the development of graduate programs.
This MOU represents a significant milestone in advancing health sciences education and research between Walailak University and Kyoto Tachibana University, paving the way for a long-term academic partnership.