The Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, recently organized a student exchange program that sent undergraduate students to Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities (YMUN) in Baise, Guangxi Province, People’s Republic of China. The program aimed to promote academic, language, and cultural exchange between the two institutions.
Coordinated by the Student Development and Alumni Relations Unit in collaboration with the International Relations Unit of the Faculty of Public Health, the program was held from June 4 to 13, 2025. It was designed to enhance students’ international exposure and broaden their understanding of global contexts. Funding was provided through the Faculty’s annual international learning support initiative, with additional support from Mr. Ampol Sirinarakun, who generously donated to support students participating in the program.
The exchange program included 16 third- and fourth-year undergraduate students from the Bachelor of Sciences programs in Environmental Health, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety (double major), and Public Health. They were accompanied by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surachai Phimha, Dr. Kritsana Aunthakhot, and Miss Kwunhathai Sintao, a General Administration Officer. The delegation received a warm welcome from the Director, Deputy Directors, and staff of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange at YMUN. Special hospitality was extended by the Dean, faculty members, and staff of the School of Public Health, who organized and hosted all activities throughout the visit.
Over the course of ten days, students from Khon Kaen University engaged in a variety of activities that encouraged mutual learning and cultural appreciation. These included a traditional “Phu Tai” dance performance to showcase Thai heritage, campus tours, an introduction to Chinese language lessons, and exchange sessions on the public health systems of both countries. The group also visited historical landmarks in Baise, observed laboratory operations at the Baise Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and joined sports and recreational activities with Chinese students at YMUN’s Baidong Campus.
Mr. Watcharanon Noonwong, a fourth-year student in Occupational Health and Safety, described the journey as a memorable and rewarding experience, emphasizing how much happiness and learning the group gained. He expressed gratitude to all who made the trip possible and said the opportunity marked an important step toward their future. Miss Manatchanan Wankham, a third-year student in the Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety program, thanked the Faculty for organizing the exchange, stating that it helped broaden her views on different healthcare systems. Despite initial adjustments to food and language, she found the experience deeply enriching and inspiring. Mr. Matupoom Phuetphian, a third-year student from the same program under the Special Program track, shared that the exchange provided invaluable knowledge in public health, culture, and communication. He highlighted the warm hospitality and lasting friendships formed during the program, noting that these connections reflect the strong and growing relationship between Khon Kaen University and YMUN.
Khon Kaen University and Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities first established their academic and personnel exchange agreement in 2021. The partnership focuses on fostering academic, linguistic, and cultural exchange. Faculty members from YMUN have since pursued doctoral studies at KKU’s Faculty of Public Health, Faculty of Nursing, and Faculty of Medicine. Looking ahead, both institutions plan to expand their collaboration to include joint research projects, academic services, and international publication initiatives.
