On 6 February 2026, the Student Union of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (KKU), organised the 10th Khon Kaen University International Challenge of Emergency Medicine and Related Basic Sciences (KKU ICEM 2026). This programme aims to provide medical students interested in emergency medicine with a platform to exchange academic knowledge, share cultural insights, and build a cohesive international network, ultimately fostering future collaborative work and integration.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Professor Pathorn Phiromchai, M.D., Associate Dean for Strategic Planning and Quality Development, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. A significant number of faculty members, competitors, and students from various nations attended the event at the Maudin Daeng and Friendship Meeting Rooms, Integrated Learning Building, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.
In his address, Professor Pathorn Phiromchai extended a warm welcome to all participants on behalf of the Faculty of Medicine. He stated that hosting the 10th iteration of the competition is a major milestone, reflecting the faculty’s commitment to advancing the field of emergency medicine.
“The opportunity to continuously host this international event for the past ten years is a source of great pride for the Faculty of Medicine and Khon Kaen University,” Professor Phiromchai remarked. “We are honoured to serve as a hub for the exchange of knowledge and experience among medical students from diverse international backgrounds.”
Professor Pathorn further detailed the competition’s style, noting: “The KKU ICEM 2026 activities were designed to encompass both academic conferences and practical workshops covering essential topics, including Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PCLS), CPR, and Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS). These sessions are intended to enhance the critical skills necessary for emergency medical professionals.”
He added that the programme also included a Cultural Trip designed to promote understanding of Thai and Isan culture and strengthen camaraderie among international students. This year, the competition welcomed 12 teams from three countries: Thailand (Ramathibodi Hospital – Mahidol University, Chiang Mai University, Thammasat University, Nakornping Hospital Chiang Mai, Udon Thani Hospital, Somdet Phra Pinklao Hospital), Japan (Wakayama University, Tsukuba University), and the Philippines (Far Eastern University), demonstrating the event’s growing international acceptance.
The programme was scheduled to run from 6 to 10 February 2026 at the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University. Activities commenced with the opening ceremony at the Witthayawiphas Room, Faculty of Science, followed by academic conferences, the workshops (ACLS, PCLS, CPR, POCUS), and the emergency medicine challenge.
Cultural activities included a trip to Me Kin Farm (ยังมีกิน ฟาร์ม) and Jutatip (จุฑาทิพย์) to experience Indigo fabric dyeing, a visit to Gumpun Muay Thai (กำปั้นมวยไทย), and a Hospital Tour and Khon Kaen Tour for accompanying faculty members.
The event concluded with the Isan Secret Night closing and award ceremony, presided over by Associate Professor Pattarapong Makarawate, M.D., Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, followed by a Farewell Party held at the field in front of the Khon Kaen University Art Gallery.
Notably, the ICEM 2026 programme was held under the theme “ICEM Go Green.” Participants were encouraged to bring their own cups and cloth bags to reduce plastic waste and were educated on correct waste separation procedures, aligning the event with sustainable environmental conservation efforts.
