Delegation from Naresuan University, Thailand, Visits Kumamoto University to Strengthen Academic Collaboration

On June 19th and 20th, a distinguished delegation from Naresuan University, Thailand, visited Kumamoto University to further strengthen academic ties and foster deeper collaboration. The delegation was led by President Sarintip Tantanee and accompanied by Dean of the Faculty of Medical Science, Sukhgij Ysothornsrikul along with two other faculty members.

The primary purpose of the visit was to elevate the existing inter-departmental exchange agreement to an inter-university Memorandum of Understanding, thereby broadening the scope of collaboration between Naresuan University and Kumamoto University. This visit also aimed to facilitate communication between researchers of both universities in relevant fields and to hear firsthand the voices of students from Thailand, advancing mutual understanding and partnership.

Visit to the Center for Water Cycle, Marine Environment, and Disaster Management (CWMD)

On June 19th, the delegation toured the Center for Water Cycle, Marine Environment, and Disaster Management (CWMD) at Kumamoto University. Director Ryuji Kakimoto and four faculty members of the CWMD welcomed the delegation. The meeting featured presentations on various research topics conducted by the CWMD faculty members, sparking numerous insightful questions and enriching discussions between the two sides.
President Tantanee reflected on the joint research initiatives carried out in collaboration with Japanese researchers under the JSPS, JST and JICA projects, expressing her sincere gratitude for the contributions these collaborations have made to scientific advancement in Thailand.

Signing Ceremony of the Inter-University Memorandum of Understanding

On June 20th, a signing ceremony to conclude an inter-university Memorandum of Understanding between Kumamoto University and Naresuan University was held. The two universities have maintained a strong relationship since 2016, when a department-level agreement was established. Under this framework, Kumamoto University’s Graduate School of Medical Sciences has hosted students from Naresuan University and engaged in collaborative research.

The ceremony, held in a warm and friendly atmosphere, featured remarks from both university presidents, who expressed their expectations for further academic and student exchange across a broader range of fields. Professor Seiji Okada from the Graduate School of Medical Sciences & Center for Human Retrovirus Infection also reflected on the long history of research and educational collaboration with Naresuan University, highlighting the strong foundation upon which further developments can be built.

Following the official signing, an informal exchange of views took place, deepening mutual understanding. The delegation from Naresuan University then toured the campus, including a visit to the Memorial Museum of the Fifth High School.

Meeting with Thai Students at Kumamoto University

At noon, the delegation had the opportunity to enjoy a casual lunch with Thai students currently enrolled in Kumamoto University’s Graduate School of Medical Sciences. This was a fulfilling experience, allowing the delegation to connect with students and gain insight into their academic and cultural experiences at the university.

A Step Toward Deeper Collaboration

This visit marks a significant step forward in the partnership between Naresuan University and Kumamoto University. Kumamoto University looks forward to continuing this fruitful relationship with Naresuan University and advancing shared academic goals for the future.