In an exciting initiative to broaden academic horizons and cultural understanding, the Faculty of Public Health at Khon Kaen University has launched a dynamic student exchange program with Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities in Baise City, Guangxi Province, China. This enriching experience, held from September 14-22, 2024, promises to enhance students’ global perspectives and foster international collaboration.

The program, supported by the Student Development and Alumni Relations Unit and the International Relations Unit of Faculty of Public Health, along with additional funding from Prof. Dr. Wongsa Laohasiriwong, Dean of the Faculty, aims to blend academic learning with cultural immersion. Eleven enthusiastic undergraduate students from third and fourth-year programs in Environmental Health, Occupational Health and Safety, and a dual major in these fields, embarked on this journey. They were accompanied by Dr. Sakda Seesopon, an international expert, and Ms. Pootsadee Kaiyawong, an international relations officer.

Upon arrival, the KKU delegation was warmly welcomed by Prof. Wen Jianjun, Director, and Prof. Zhang Jian, Vice Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange, as well as Prof. Guo Rui, Dean, and Assoc. Prof. Zhang Wenling, Deputy Party Secretary of the School of Public Health. The hospitality extended by Youjiang Medical University set the tone for a fruitful exchange.

The timing of the visit coincided with China’s vibrant Mid-Autumn Festival, offering students a unique opportunity to engage in cultural festivities and witness traditional performances by various ethnic groups at Haokun Lake in Lingyun City. The program was packed with diverse activities, including captivating Thai dance performances, university and hospital tours, Chinese language classes, and insightful visits to the Baise Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Mr. Panitchapon Sanjondee, a third-year student in the dual major of Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety, shared his excitement: “This exchange in China was my first international experience, and it was truly unforgettable. It opened my eyes to new knowledge and cultural exchanges between China and Thailand. I learned about the Chinese public health system and gained invaluable insights. Adapting to life in China was challenging but rewarding, and the experience will be beneficial in my future endeavors.”

Miss Araya Duangkaew, a fourth-year student in Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety, echoed these sentiments: “The warm welcome from Youjiang Medical University was heartwarming. We exchanged knowledge and gained new experiences in public health, culture, and language. The support from Youjiang students was inspiring, motivating me to pursue international public health studies. I hope this exchange continues and leads to collaborative research in public health.”

This vibrant exchange program stems from an academic cooperation agreement signed between Khon Kaen University and Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities in late 2021. It aims to develop human resources and students through shared academic and cultural experiences. In late 2023, Youjiang Medical University sent faculty and students to KKU, further strengthening ties and enhancing public health education.

This initiative not only enriches the academic and cultural fabric of both institutions but also lays the groundwork for future collaborations, promising a brighter, more interconnected future for students and faculty alike.