Walailak University, led by President Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, along with executives, faculty members, and students, warmly welcomed Mr. Wang Zhijian, Consul-General of the People's Republic of China in Songkhla, on his first visit to the university.
The visit aimed to enhance academic collaborations, promote Thai-Chinese cultural exchange, and strengthen long-lasting ties between Walailak University and institutions in China. The event took place today at the Honor Hall of Walailak University Hospital.
On this occasion, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong briefed the Consul-General on Walailak University's ongoing partnerships with Chinese higher education institutions. These include a dual degree program in computer and artificial intelligence with Harbin Engineering University, teaching and research collaboration with Kunming Medical University, and the establishment of a Confucius Institute at Walailak University in partnership with Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, which aims to support Chinese language and cultural learning for both students and the public.
Professor Dr. Sombat also took this opportunity to propose further collaboration in health and medical advancements with Chinese universities. He highlighted that Walailak University Hospital, which currently operates 540 beds, serves as a tertiary hospital providing medical services to Thailand's upper southern region and as a medical school producing much-needed healthcare professionals.
"The government has invested 5.6 billion baht to support the establishment of Walailak University Hospital, which also serves as a medical school. The university is also open to collaboration with medical faculties in China. Currently, our students who have pursued medical studies in China can successfully obtain a medical license in Thailand and enter the workforce. We look forward to deepening our collaborations with China in the years ahead," President Sombat said.
Consul-General Wang Zhijian expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome from the university's president, executives, and students. He also praised the university for its modern facilities, outstanding academic achievements, and green campus environment. Regarding the establishment of the Confucius Institute, Consul-General Wang said that the consulate will fully support the project and facilitate any necessary assistance.
"This collaboration will bring significant benefits to the people of both countries. I sincerely hope that the Confucius Institute at Walailak University will be successfully established in the near future. The institute will play a key role in fostering cultural exchange and enhancing mutual understanding between our nations."
He continued, "Education is the foundation of a nation's future, which is why China has made substantial investments in this sector. I firmly believe that cooperation between Walailak University and China will play a vital role in benefiting students from both nations and strengthening our bilateral relations."
The event was also attended by representatives from the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Nakhon Si Thammarat, the Teochew Association of Nakhon Si Thammarat, the Hainan Association of Nakhon Si Thammarat, the Nakhon Si Thammarat Gold Shop Club, and the Tai Tek Siang Tung Foundation of Nakhon Si Thammarat. In addition to academic discussions, the meeting explored political, economic, and social development issues, further supporting the growing partnership between the two countries.