Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Dentistry (KKU-DT) visited the University of Baguio (UB) on February 10, 2025, to explore new opportunities for academic collaboration. The meeting, held at UB’s Centennial Hall, focused on the development of a Student and Faculty Exchange Program and potential research partnerships, paving the way for deeper academic ties between the two institutions.
The KKU delegation was led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ajiravudh Subarnbhesaj, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at Khon Kaen University. He was joined by a distinguished group of faculty members, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teekayu Plangkun Jorns, Deputy Dean for Research, Graduate Studies, and International Affairs; Asst. Prof. Dr. Patimaporn Pungchanchaikul, Program Coordinator for the M.Sc. in Dentistry (Pediatric Dentistry); Asst. Prof. Dr. Poramaporn Klanrit, Program Coordinator for the M.Sc. in Dentistry (Oral Diagnostic Sciences); Assoc. Prof. Wilairat Sarideechaigul, Faculty of the Oral Diagnostic Division; Miss Chutikarn Pholsaksai, International Relations Officer; and Professor Dr. Waranuch Pitiphat, President of the South East Asia Association for Dental Education (SEAADE). The delegation was also joined by Asso. Prof. Dr. Oranart Matangkasombut from Chulalongkorn University’s Department of Microbiology and Center of Excellence on Oral Microbiology and Immunology.
Engr. Javier Herminio D. Bautista, President of the University of Baguio, welcomed the visitors with a warm address, emphasizing the long-standing partnership between UB and KKU. He expressed optimism for continued collaboration across various schools and programs within the university. Similarly, Dr. Ian Steve Bandaay, Dean of the UB School of Dentistry, shared his gratitude, reflecting on the proposal for partnership submitted by UB in 2019 and the joy of receiving KKU’s acceptance in 2023.
The event included an exploratory partnership meeting, where representatives from both universities discussed the details of the proposed student and faculty exchange program. This collaboration would provide UB School of Dentistry students with exposure to KKU’s diverse academic offerings in the coming school year. Additionally, both institutions explored the possibility of collaborating on a Master’s program in Dental Public Health, which would be offered first in the Philippines.
The event aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships for achieving the SDGs. By fostering collaboration between higher education institutions, both UB and KKU-DT are contributing to global efforts to enhance education, research, and international cooperation in dentistry and public health.
