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.
