KKU Welcomes Senior Executives from King Prajadhipok’s Institute to Study Cellular Therapy Center and Advance Medical Innovation

23 February 2026
09:52

On 19 February 2026, Khon Kaen University, led by Professor Thidarut Boonmars, Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, and Assistant Professor Wiyada Punjaruk, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the Cellular Therapy Center, welcomed a delegation of executives and faculty members from the Advanced Certificate Course in Public Economics Management for Executives, Class 24 (PEM 24), of King Prajadhipok’s Institute.

The delegation, comprising over 60 participants and led by Dr Bank Ngamarunchot, Course Lecturer, and Mrs Thanitta Sukawattana, Director of the Office of Human Capital Training and Development, visited KKU to study the operational processes and management of the Cellular Therapy Center. The meeting was held at the Sarasin Room, 2nd Floor, Sirikunakorn Building.

Professor Thidarut Boonmars delivered a welcoming address and presented an overview of Khon Kaen University’s role in driving research and innovation toward practical application. She emphasised the integration of science, technology, and management to create economic value while sustainably enhancing public health and well-being.

Assistant Professor Wiyada Punjaruk subsequently delivered a lecture outlining the vision and development of cellular therapy technologies. Her presentation detailed production processes conducted under stringent safety and quality standards, as well as the Centre’s integrated management approach across academic, research, and clinical service dimensions. The session concluded with an interactive discussion, facilitating a meaningful exchange of perspectives between the visiting delegation and KKU experts.

After the lectures, the executives toured the operational facilities of the Cellular Therapy Center on the 8th floor of the HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana Memorial Building. They also observed presentations on medical research and innovation on the 7th floor of the same building. The delegation showed keen interest and engaged in constructive discussions, reflecting Khon Kaen University’s potential as a regional hub for knowledge and innovation in health technology.

The Cellular Therapy Center at Khon Kaen University is dedicated to developing advanced medical innovations to enhance healthcare and add value to university research. The centre currently offers Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments under rigorous safety standards, with applications in managing early-stage knee osteoarthritis, treating chronic wounds, and promoting hair and skin rejuvenation. This work demonstrates the concrete translation of academic knowledge into tangible benefits.

This study visit represents another important milestone in strengthening collaboration between higher education institutions and national leadership development agencies. It aims to integrate expertise in medical innovation and public management to sustainably enhance Thailand’s healthcare and economic systems. The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), reaffirming KKU’s role as a key driver of national development through systematic, knowledge-based collaboration.