The Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, organised a student exchange programme in collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, from 4 to 11 January 2025. The programme aimed to provide students from both institutions with opportunities to identify challenges and develop physiotherapy innovations for the elderly, in line with the Faculty’s vision of advancing medical technology and physiotherapy to enhance public health and quality of life.

The opening ceremony was presided over 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 programme was supported 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, Programme 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.

Programme activities were conducted in collaboration with elderly care organisations in Khon Kaen Province from both public and private sectors. These included 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.

In addition to academic activities, 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.

At the closing ceremony, 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.