CEBU CITY, Philippines – The School of Pharmacy at Walailak University (WU) has successfully completed its international academic mission following a week-long exchange program at the University of San Carlos (USC). The WU–USC Student Exchange Program, which ran from May 4–12, 2026, marks a significant milestone in strengthening the educational and research ties between the two Southeast Asian institutions.
The delegation was led by Asst. Prof. Chanakan Sitthisak and Ms. Thanyamai Thongin, accompanied by four selected pharmacy students: Ms. Atikarn Dendara, Ms. Mesinee Cham, Mr. Naphat Suabsai, and Mr. Kritsanapat Wongpunngam.
The intensive itinerary provided participants with a comprehensive look into the Philippine pharmaceutical landscape. Academic activities included integrated classroom learning, advanced laboratory sessions, and Interprofessional Education (IPE) modules designed to foster collaboration across healthcare disciplines. A highlight of the academic track was the research immersion at the Pharmaceutical Research and Drug Development Laboratory (PRDDL), where students engaged in high-level pharmaceutical sciences projects.
To gain practical insight into the local healthcare system, the group conducted clinical site visits at:
- Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center: Observing public sector hospital pharmacy and specialized patient care.
- Chong Hua Hospital: Studying private sector healthcare management and clinical pharmacy services.
- Barangay Apas Health Center: Engaging in community-based health initiatives and primary pharmaceutical care.
Beyond the clinical and academic rigor, the program emphasized the importance of global citizenship. Cultural excursions throughout Cebu City allowed the Thai delegation to experience Filipino heritage firsthand, fostering a deeper mutual understanding and personal connections between the students of both nations.
This exchange program underscores Walailak University’s commitment to producing “Global Citizens” by providing students with international exposure and the opportunity to compare diverse healthcare models. The success of this mission is expected to lead to further collaborative research and continued student mobility between WU and USC in the years to come.
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