The 3rd Global Camp with Showa Medical University, Japan, held from August 4 to 11, 2025, at Walailak University, marked a significant milestone in fostering international collaboration in healthcare education. The event was officially opened by Prof. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, who expressed his strong support and highlighted the importance of global partnerships.
Over the course of the week, 8 students from Showa Medical University and 30 students from the School of Allied Health Sciences and the School of Nursing, Walailak University, together with faculty members from both institutions, engaged in a wide range of activities, including practical training, cultural exchanges, and sightseeing excursions.
The program began with an opening ceremony attended by distinguished guests, followed by an insightful tour of Walailak University Hospital, which showcased healthcare practices in both Thailand and Japan. Participants joined hands-on activities such as home visits, patient interviews led by nursing students, body movement testing, locomotive syndrome assessments, and basic physical therapy evaluations. These activities not only enhanced practical skills but also promoted intercultural understanding.
Cultural exchanges were vibrant, featuring traditional Thai costumes, local cuisine, and a lively night party organized by the MT International Program, School of Allied Health Sciences. The Showa team also enjoyed sightseeing tours and created memorable moments, with warm assistance provided by Thai student buddies from four study programs: Physical Therapy, Nursing, Medical Technology, and the Medical Technology International Program.
The event was enriched by the participation of key figures from Showa Medical University, including Prof. Chie Watanabe, Prof. Yasuko Inaba, Dr. Yuka Hiraizumi, and Dr. Takeshi Miura. The efforts of the SAH International Affairs team—led by Asst. Prof. Chadapa Rungruangbaiyok, Asst. Prof. Suriyan Sukati, Dr. Kamonchanok Chooyoung, Dr. Suphasarang Sirirattanakul, Asst. Prof. Kritsada Pruksaphon, Assoc. Prof. Nitita Piya-amornphan, Ms. Wantanee Kaewruang, and Ms. Noppamas—were instrumental in ensuring smooth coordination throughout the camp.
Special thanks go to the Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences, Assoc. Prof. Voravuth Somsak, and the Dean of the School of Nursing, Asst. Prof. Orapen Sukavulli, for their warm welcomes, support, and for presenting certificates at the closing ceremony. The event concluded with a ceremony attended by both deans, reaffirming their commitment to ongoing collaboration. In addition, the Showa team enjoyed a leisure day at Kha-Nom Beach Resort and Spa, where they experienced dolphin boat rides and kayaking before departing from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport on August 11.
This camp has further strengthened the bonds between Walailak University and Showa Medical University, paving the way for future joint research and educational initiatives. The dedicated efforts of faculty members and supporting staff from both institutions, especially those from the SAH International Affairs team, deserve special recognition for making this event a success.
Project Heads:
Asst. Prof. Rachasak Boonhok, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University
Prof. Yoshiko Kudo, Showa Medical University
