KPI renews partnership with ENSTA

On 22 September 2025, Anatolii Melnichenko, Rector of the Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, and Andrii Shysholin, Vice-Rector for International Relations, visited ENSTA, the National Higher School of Advanced Techniques, which is affiliated to the Institut Polytechnique de Paris.

 

During the visit, Rector Anatolii Melnychenko and ENSTA Director General Estelle Iacona signed an agreement to renew their cooperation for the next five years.

 

ENSTA has been collaborating with Kyiv Polytechnic for over a decade, particularly through a double degree programme and the Erasmus+ KA171 academic mobility programme.

 

“Big thanks, Estelle Iacona, to you and your team, namely Director of International Relations Sébastien Raymond, for your unwavering support of Ukraine and for strengthening the partnership between ENSTA and Kyiv Polytechnic,” said Anatolii Melnychenko. “Our joint programmes – from double degrees to Erasmus+ mobility – open up opportunities for young Ukrainian engineers to progress, and contribute to the recovery and modernisation of Ukraine. We very much appreciate ENSTA’s commitment to supporting us at this challenging time and believe that united we are building a sustainable future for our countries and for Europe at large.”

 

Currently, six students from Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute are pursuing their studies at ENSTA.

UiTM x Henan University

A delegation from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Negeri Sembilan recently conducted an academic visit to Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy (HUAHE), Zhengzhou, Henan, China, on September 11, 2025. This visit was initiated by UiTM’s strategic international industrial partners, the International Future of Education Association (IFEA) and ARA Halal Certification Services Centre Ltd., marking another important milestone for UiTM as a whole in strengthening international academic and industrial relations.

The UiTM delegation led by Ts. Dr. Aslizah Mohd Aris, the Deputy Rector of Research, Industry, Community, and Alumni Linkages, was warmly welcomed by the university’s leadership, faculty members, and staff, reflecting the spirit of hospitality and academic camaraderie. During the visit, both institutions shared insights into their respective academic programs, research initiatives, facilities, co-curricular activities, and institutional strengths. The exchange of ideas fostered a deeper understanding of each university’s academic culture and highlighted opportunities for meaningful cooperation.

Discussions during the visit outlined several potential avenues for collaboration, including joint research initiatives, academic mobility programs (staff and student exchange), cross-cultural exposure, and sharing pedagogical innovations. These two prominent institutions offer a number of similar fields, which include food processing technology, agricultural microbiology, brewing technology, microbiology, business management, and related interdisciplinary areas, providing the opportunity for numerous academic collaborations. One of the highlights of the discussion is on co-hosting international conferences in the years to come, in collaboration with UiTM’s strategic industrial partners, in promoting dialogue and dissemination of cutting-edge research. 

The visit reaffirmed UiTM’s commitment to broadening its global partnerships in line with its internationalization agenda, “Globally Renowned University”. Both institutions expressed confidence that such collaborations will create a strong platform for academic excellence, industrial partnership, knowledge sharing, and capacity building that will benefit students, staff, industrial players, and the broader academic community.

This academic engagement represents a promising beginning for UiTM Cawangan Negeri Sembilan and Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy to work together in advancing mutual goals while contributing to the global higher education landscape.

Podcast Episode on Translanguaging Out Now

In this season two inaugural episode, Associate Professor Theron Muller from the Faculty of Human Sciences joins PhD student Peter Chai to discuss his research on translanguaging, which views languages as interconnected and synchronously working together, within the Japanese sociolinguistic context. The episode also highlights one of Waseda’s innovative English-based degree programs in the Graduate School of Human Sciences, where Professor Muller teaches. Additionally, he offers valuable insights for researchers considering academic careers in Japan, emphasizing both the unique opportunities and cultural transitions involved in joining Waseda’s vibrant community.

“Rigorous Research, Real Impact” is available for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. It’s the perfect choice for international listeners considering attending university in Japan, current students contemplating further study in graduate school, and researchers looking to make the move to Japan and work for a university that stresses the importance of interdisciplinary approaches.

One episode released every two weeks.

*Please note the schedule is subject to change.

■Episode 2(Release date: 2025/10/7):

 Associate Professor Brian Hikari Hartzheim (Faculty of International Research and Education)—

“Hideo Kojima and the Art of Game Design”

■Episode 3(Release date: 2025/10/21):

 Professor Alexander Bukh (Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies)—

“Social Construction of Territorial Disputes in Northeast Asia”

■Episode 4(Release date: 2025/11/04):

 Associate Professor Jack Seddon (Faculty of Political Science and Economics)—

“Market Makers: The Politics of Market Design”

FK UNAIR assists measles outbreak response

The Faculty of Medicine Universitas Airlangga (FK UNAIR) is actively supporting the implementation of the Measles Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) program in Sumenep Regency, East Java. The program runs from Monday, August 25, 2025, through Saturday, September 6, 2025, following the declaration of a measles outbreak that has already claimed multiple lives in the region.

The measles outbreak response is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes), the East Java Provincial Health Office, the Sumenep Regency Health Office, FK UNAIR, and the Faculty of Public Health. On Wednesday (August 27, 2025), FK UNAIR Vice Dean III Dr. Sulistiawati, dr., M.Kes., stated that the urgent demand for physicians in the ORI program prompted UNAIR’s involvement.

“Vaccination teams on-site are fully staffed, but additional physician support remains necessary, especially for advocacy and supervision. That is why FK UNAIR deployed a team, particularly from the Department of Pediatrics,” she explained.

The FK UNAIR team was dispatched in three waves. The first group, led by dr. Dwi Yanti Puspitasari, DTMH, MCTM, Sp.A(K), along with dr. Alpha Fardah Athiyyah, Sp.A(K), and other pediatric residents, immediately coordinated with the Ministry of Health and local officials to identify areas with the lowest immunization coverage.

“Our support is focused on communities where ORI coverage is still below 10 percent. One example is TK Qurrota Ayun, where 200 children were targeted for vaccination,” explained dr. Athiyyah.

Alongside immunizations, the team also conducted educational sessions for parents and healthcare workers, while overseeing screening and post-vaccination monitoring.

In addition to assisting with vaccinations, the FK UNAIR team ensured that healthcare workers were prepared to manage potential Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI). Public outreach efforts emphasized the importance of measles vaccines and the proper medical response to possible side effects.

“The critical message is that measles is highly contagious and can be fatal if not prevented through immunization. Vaccination not only protects children individually but also safeguards the community,” stressed dr. Puspitasari.

Preliminary reports show that the number of measles patients at Sumenep General Hospital has decreased from 22 to 6. However, fatalities caused by pneumonia-related complications remain a serious concern. “Most patients arrive late and already in severe condition, making treatment extremely difficult,” said dr. Puspitasari.

She also emphasized that ORI is provided to all children within the eligible age group, regardless of their prior vaccination history. “The goal of ORI is to protect every child. The decision is based on the child’s health at the time of vaccination. If the child is sick or has a fever, the vaccine is postponed. If healthy, the vaccine is administered,” she explained.

By carrying out ORI simultaneously, health officials hope to expand vaccine coverage and curb measles transmission. Through collaboration between national and regional authorities and academic institutions, UNAIR continues to strengthen its role in advancing public health while contributing to measles outbreak response efforts in Indonesia.

Thammasat–FTI Drive Thai Industry Global

Thammasat University and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) signed an MOU on September 8, 2025, in Bangkok, for academic and research collaboration. The goal is to develop human resources and innovation, boosting the Thai industry’s international potential through curriculum development, research, training, and academic services.

This collaboration focuses on developing a “Food for Longevity” curriculum to produce skilled graduates. It also involves implementing Problem-based Learning (PBL) internships for students to solve real-world industry problems. Additionally, the initiative includes conducting R&D for new knowledge, innovations, products, and services aligned with consumer trends, safety, quality, and environmental sustainability. Training industrial personnel to boost competitiveness is another key aspect, along with providing academic services through knowledge dissemination, practical workshops, and fostering education-industry cooperation for tangible research and innovation utilization.

Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, emphasized the university’s commitment to bridging academia with practical application. Through experiential learning, internships, and problem-based cooperative education, students tackle real-world challenges in digital technology, health food innovation, and sustainable management. This collaboration enhances students’ digital, environmental, and entrepreneurial skills, believing practical learning and research will foster growth for students, faculty, and businesses, ultimately elevating Thai industries globally and benefiting society, quality of life, and future sustainability.

Mr. Kriangkrai Thiennukul, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, highlighted challenges in the Thai industrial sector, including competition, technology, and workforce skill development. He stressed the need to adapt to new technologies, boost product value, and cultivate comprehensive skills. Thailand’s potential in technology and biodiversity can be leveraged in growing industries like bioplastics, biofuels, biochemicals, biopharmaceuticals, future foods, and cosmetics, with significant market growth expected by 2030. The collaboration between the Federation of Thai Industries and Thammasat University aims to develop industry-aligned curricula, training, and innovation, crucial for upskilling, reskilling, and new-skilling personnel to meet evolving demands.

ChulaThaiYO Delights Peruvian Audiences

Chulalongkorn University reaffirms its role in using arts and culture as a form of cultural diplomacy, in line with the “CU Togetherness” policy of Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, which aims to expand international collaboration. This also supports the “Chula Social Engagement for Cultural Sustainability” policy led by Associate Professor Dr. Yuttana Chappanarat, Vice President, which emphasizes driving sustainable social development through arts and culture. 

On September 16–17, 2025, Chulalongkorn University brought the Chulalongkorn University Thai Traditional Youth Orchestra (ChulaThaiYO)—composed of students from the Faculty of Education and Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts—to perform in Lima, Peru, for two full days of cultural exchange. 

  • The first performance took place on September 16, 2025, at the Teatro Municipal de Lima, one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Peru. 
  • The second performance on September 17, 2025, was held at the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site in the Miraflores district of Lima, an important site dating back over 1,500 years and reflecting pre-Incan civilization. 

The delegation was led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Vitchatalum Laovanich, Assistant to the President, along with Mr. Kunchit Jitratan, Director of the Office of Art and Culture Administration, who guided the students in proudly representing the university and Thailand. 

Distinguished guests in attendance included Mr. Elmer José Germán Gonzalo Schialer Salcedo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of PeruMr. Pisanu Sobhon, Thai Ambassador to Lima; and Mr. Treethap Noppakhun, Minister Counselor for Culture, who played a key role in elevating Thai arts to the international stage. 

The performances showcased a rich blend of Thai music and dance, including

  • “Homrong Maharaj” (Royal Overture) 
  • “Chao Phraya Suite: The River of Time and Civilization” 
  • Traditional Thai string ensemble 
  • “Nok Kamin Sam Chan” (The Three-Tiered Oriole Melody) 
  • A Khon masked dance drama scene: “Yok Rob” (Battle Scene) 
  • “Serng Bong Lang” folk dance 
  • “Kinnari Ron” (The Soaring Kinnari Dance) 
  • “Manorah Buchayan” (Manorah Offering Dance) 

The event concluded with a joint Ramwong circle dance, involving both Thai performers and Peruvian participants, creating a joyful and warm atmosphere of cultural friendship. 

The success of this performance was made possible under the direction and supervision of:

  • Dr. Sirichaicharn Fachamroon, National Artist 
  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Malinee Achayuttakan, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts 
  • Dr. Sakwin Siriwatthanakul, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts 
  • Mr. Chalermpan Ruwicha, Faculty of Education 

The vibrant atmosphere of both performances, filled with enthusiastic applause and smiles from the audience, highlighted the remarkable success of the event and demonstrated the power of Thai soft power in gracefully conveying the beauty of Thai music and dance to a global audience. 

Chulalongkorn University takes great pride in representing Thailand on the world stage, using Thai arts and culture to strengthen longstanding diplomatic ties and foster enduring friendships between Thailand and Peru. 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/261919/

Clinical Pharmacy Integration

As part of a national strategy to improve pharmaceutical education, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University hosted a round table titled “Learning Through Practice. Clinical Pharmacy: Issues of Medicines Provision in Multidisciplinary Medical Organizations.”

The event brought together representatives from leading scientific and medical institutions across Kazakhstan, as well as educators, employers, and postgraduate students of the “Pharmacy” program. Organized by the School of Pharmacy and the Department of Organization, Management and Economics of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacy, the discussion focused on aligning academic training with the realities of modern healthcare.

Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening the connection between education and clinical practice. They highlighted the growing role of clinical pharmacists in ensuring safe and effective pharmacotherapy, contributing to public health through pharmaceutical care, and supporting the efficient use of medical resources within national healthcare programs such as the Guaranteed Volume of Free Medical Care (GVFMC) and the Mandatory Social Health Insurance (MCSI).

In the context of a transforming healthcare system, increasing life expectancy, and an expanding pharmaceutical market, the demand for highly skilled clinical pharmacists continues to grow. Professionals are now expected to assess drug quality and safety, support rational prescribing, manage pharmaceutical logistics, and work within integrated digital health systems like Damumed.

The round table concluded with recommendations aimed at improving pharmacy curricula, implementing practice-based learning models, and expanding partnerships with clinical and research institutions. This initiative marks a significant step toward preparing future clinical pharmacists to meet the evolving needs of Kazakhstan’s healthcare system.

Thammasat–Thonglor Open Pet Care Clinic

“Thammasat Thonglor Animal Clinic – TTAC” was officially opened by Thammasat University and Thonglor Animal Hospital at Thammasat University Rangsit Campus. This initiative elevates pet healthcare to human standards, addressing the over 7% annual growth in pet ownership where pets are considered family.

 

Prof. Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Rector of Thammasat University, revealed that this collaboration marks an important step that reflects the vision of “a university for the people.” The University has integrated knowledge, research, and scientific capabilities with over 30 years of expertise and experience from Thonglor Animal Hospital to establish a prototype clinic. This clinic will not only serve the community and the public in Pathum Thani and the northern part of Bangkok but also aims to become a center for the development of personnel in the fields of science and innovation related to pets.

 

This collaboration supports the global trend of “Pet Humanization,” where pets are treated as family. This trend, gaining traction in 2024–2025, signifies a shift in human-pet relationships, involving increased care, emotional investment, and financial expenditure, leading to robust growth in the global pet industry.

Dr. Kitika Chaisupatana, Chief Executive Officer of Thonglor Animal Hospital, stated that the opening of this clinic marks a significant step in expanding services to the Pathum Thani province, which is one of the five provinces with the highest number of registered companies engaged in pet food business in Thailand. Growing demand and market opportunities drive TTAC clinic’s focus on integrating innovation, technology, and expertise to elevate pet care standards internationally. It also aims to develop new knowledge and products for pets and owners.

Prof. Dr. Nurak Grisdanurak, Director of the Office of Advanced Science and Technology at Thammasat University, stated that the TTAC clinic is designed to be a “comprehensive service center” covering everything from diagnosis and treatment to preventive healthcare. Staffed by Thonglor-trained veterinarians, the clinic handles 30+ outpatients daily, supported by modern IT for efficient service. Beyond medical care, it offers boarding, grooming, and pet product retail. Operations meet international standards like ISO, TASHA, and ISFM Cat Friendly Clinic, ensuring quality and safety.

TTAC is located at TUH Park Building B, Thammasat University, Rangsit Center, and is scheduled to commence operations by the end of 2025. The hospital will provide services daily from 08:30 AM to 08:30 PM to meet the needs of clients in both Pathum Thani and northern Bangkok. It aims to serve as a model for a comprehensive animal hospital that integrates expertise in education, science, and the pet health business, laying the groundwork for the advancement of Thailand’s pet industry in the future.

Cornell Law Expands East Asian Ties via NTU

Cornell Law School has jointly launched a new student exchange partnership with National Taiwan University’s College of Law, widely recognized as Taiwan’s leading law school. This builds on Cornell Law’s long-standing program with Waseda University’s School of Law in Japan, creating a trio of academic partnerships—true sister schools across East Asia and the United States.

To mark this milestone, the inaugural Waseda–National Taiwan University–Cornell Interdisciplinary Workshop took place at Waseda University in Tokyo on July 30–31, followed by the first-ever National Taiwan University–Waseda–Cornell Workshop in Taipei on August 4. The events gathered Deans, Vice-Deans, and faculty from all three institutions to present research, exchange perspectives, and deepen institutional collaboration.

Cornell Law was represented by Professors Valerie Hans, Dan Awrey, and Yun-chien Chang, each of whom presented working papers and engaged in discussions with Taiwanese and Japanese scholars. The workshops were co-sponsored by the Clarke Program in East Asian Law and Culture, and generously supported by the Tokyo-based law firm, Mori Hamada & Matsumoto, an alumni affiliate and friend of Cornell Law School.

Coalition for Justice

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), hosted a meeting of the Civil Society Coalition in Medan, bringing together 18 organizations committed to advancing restorative justice in narcotics-related cases. The forum underlined that collaboration among universities, professional associations, and grassroots organizations can create more humane and effective alternatives to punitive approaches.

The event was organized in partnership with the Indonesian Addiction Counselors Association (IKAI) North Sumatra, Yayasan Karisma, Yayasan Galatea, and the Social Welfare Study Program of FISIP USU, with support from the Elton John AIDS Foundation. A wide range of organizations including LBH Medan, PUSAKA Indonesia, Yayasan Medan Plus, and Yayasan Rumah Harapan Sehat took part, reflecting the coalition’s inclusive and diverse character.

Structured around plenary presentations and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), the forum encouraged participants to exchange insights and develop practical strategies. From these discussions, three main priorities were identified: strengthening the coalition’s institutional capacity, improving documentation of restorative justice practices carried out by the police, and building sustainable advocacy frameworks that ensure long-term collaboration.

One FGD sparked particular interest by proposing the establishment of a Medan City branch of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN). Developed in cooperation with the Medan Regional Research Agency (BRIDA) and FISIP USU, the idea was viewed as an important opportunity to enhance local capacity in addressing narcotics issues through prevention, law enforcement, and rehabilitation programs.

Participants also emphasized that restorative justice should be seen not only as a legal mechanism but also as a pathway to broader social justice. They highlighted that this approach is more effective in repairing relationships between offenders, victims, and communities, while also reducing the recurrence of minor narcotics offenses. Such perspectives demonstrate a growing awareness that justice systems must be adapted to social contexts rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to build stronger, more systematic, and sustainable cooperation between civil society organizations and law enforcement agencies. Participants expressed optimism that the outcomes of this forum will help shape a justice system that is legally sound, socially responsive, and rooted in values of fairness, inclusivity, and humanity.

By positioning restorative justice within both legal and social frameworks, the coalition seeks to advance reforms that not only address narcotics cases more effectively but also strengthen community resilience and compassion in the long run.