On April 21, 2026, the Social Engagement Project team (WUSE-2026) from the School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University—led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Chadayu Udom, Asst. Prof. Dr. Saruda Kura-ead, Dr. Walainipha Haputtha, and Lecturer Phatcharawadee Srirak—visited Karo Sub-district. The team met with the Acting Director of Ban Hua Thung Sub-district Health Promoting Hospital and registered nurses to coordinate and plan the continued implementation of three significant health projects:
“WU Karo Ruam Jai: Building Healthy Bodies, Staying Safe” (Year 3): This project focuses on assessing and monitoring musculoskeletal issues. Following last year’s findings, where 76.7% of the population reported pain, the initiative provides self-care guidance for local residents, bedbound patients, and migrant workers.
“WU Karo Ruam Jai: Empowering Bodies to Relieve Pain” (Year 3): Building on previous success, this project features “Fit Check” and “Vital You” activities to create personalized health programs. It also aims to establish “Health Buddies”—community leaders who will share knowledge to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“Promoting Sleep Well-being among Community Elderly”: A new initiative addressing sleep disorders, which affect 50% of the local elderly population. The project involves screening, sleep hygiene training, and the application of physical therapy techniques to improve sleep quality.
These initiatives emphasize Service Learning, allowing Physical Therapy students to gain hands-on experience in the community. Ban Hua Thung Health Promoting Hospital and its networks, including the Elderly Club, are fully supporting the screening and follow-up processes. This collaboration aims to reduce healthcare costs and travel-related pollution, striving toward becoming a model community for health in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
