AIHD Commemorates its 42nd Anniversary and Hosts the 32nd Natth Bhamarapravati Lecture on “Higher Education Perspectives on Global Health Governance”

22 July 2025

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On July 22, 2025, the ASEAN Institute for Health Development (AIHD), Mahidol University, celebrated its 42nd anniversary under the theme “Advancing Global Health Governance through Primary Health Care.” The event was presided over by Professor Dr. Piyamitr Sritara, President of Mahidol University, with Associate Professor Dr. Thunwadee Suksaroj, Director of the Institute, delivering the welcome remarks and report. The ceremony was held at the Boonsiri Conference Room, Training Building, AIHD and attended by more than 80 participants, including university executives, representatives from government and private sectors, collaborative partners, and students. On this occasion, Professor Dr. Piyamitr Sritara also delivered the 32nd Natth Bhamarapravati memorial lecture, titled “Higher Education Perspectives on Global Health Governance.” He emphasized the critical role of higher education institutions in driving global health governance through strategic collaboration with government agencies, private sector, civil society, and international organizations to address global health challenges. Mahidol University has contributed more than 428 research outputs in the field of Global Health Governance, demonstrating its proactive role in knowledge development and translational research. The university focuses on bridging academic knowledge with community practice—linking classrooms to communities through community hospitals and primary health care systems—to sustainably enhance the quality of life for the population. In the afternoon session, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat, Chair of the Bangkok Breath Council and former Minister of Tourism and Sports, delivered a special lecture on “Advancing Global Health Governance through Primary Health Care.” He discussed the impacts of climate change on public health and emphasized the urgency of cross-sectoral integration to build a sustainable and inclusive health system for all population groups. This event not only marks AIHD’s four decades of dedication to promoting public health and well-being but also reaffirms Mahidol University’s leadership in global and regional health governance.