Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, KKU, Collaborates with NUS on Student Exchange Program to Develop Physiotherapy Innovation for the Elderly
The Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, organized a student exchange program in collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, during January 4–11, 2025. The program aimed to provide students from both institutions with opportunities to identify challenges and develop physiotherapy innovations for the elderly, aligning with the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences’ vision of creating knowledge and innovations in medical technology and physiotherapy to promote public health and quality of life.
The opening ceremony was honored by Asst.Prof.Dr.Amonrat Jumnainsong Vice Dean for Administration, along with Asst.Prof.Dr.Attawut Chaibunruang, Assistant Dean for International Affairs and Digital who welcomed faculty members and students from the National University of Singapore (NUS).
The program was graced by Assoc. Prof. Dr. James Kah, Vice-Dean (Outreach & Special Projects), and Dr. Khoo Xiaojuan, faculty member of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, NUS, who supervised and exchanged knowledge with faculty members and students throughout the program.
Dr.Wiraphong Sucharit, program coordinator under the International Relations Division, revealed that the program involved 15 students from years 2–4 who enrolled in the course BN4102 Gerontechnology in Ageing from NUS. They participated in activities with physiotherapy faculty members, especially the elderly care group, Prof.Dr.Taweesak Janyacharoen, Asst.Prof.Dr.Wilairat Namwong, Assoc.Prof.Dr.Raoyrin Chanavirut, Dr.Piangdaw Adchaithor , as well as third-year students from the Physical Therapy program in the course Clinical Practice in Physical Therapy 2.
Activities under the program were conducted in collaboration with elderly care organizations in Khon Kaen Province, both public and private sectors, including Huk Nursing Home, Aleen Life Care, the Social Welfare Development Center for the Elderly of Khon Kaen Province, and Ubonrat Hospital. Students, faculty members, and network organizations jointly analyzed real-world problems and developed appropriate solutions to further develop into innovative approaches in physiotherapy for the elderly.
Additionally, students learned about arts, culture, traditions, and the way of life of people in the Northeastern region, promoting cross-cultural understanding and strengthening international academic cooperation between institutions.
On the final day of the program, Assoc.Prof.Dr.Jureerut Daduang, Dean of the Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, delivered closing remarks, expressing appreciation for the dedication and cooperation of faculty members, students, and network organizations from all sectors. She emphasized that such student exchange programs serve as models for experiential learning combined with establishing international academic cooperation networks, which will lead to producing highly competent graduates with global vision and sustainable social responsibility.
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