Celebrating the Legacy of Thailand’s Father of Modern Medicine on Mahidol Day, 2023
University of Phayao Pays Tribute to Thailand’s Father of Modern Medicine During Annual Mahidol Day Celebrations
On Friday, September 22nd, 2023, Associate Professor Dr. Supakorn Pongbangpho, President, University of Phayao along with the executive teams from Presidents Office, University of Phayao Hospital, School of Health Science, and others including staff and students participated in the wreath laying ceremony for expressing gratitude for Prince Mahidol of Songkla contributions to public health and medicine. The auspicious ceremony was held on the grounds of King Mahidol Monument at the University of Phayao Hospital and was graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra Boromarajonani.
During the ceremony, Professor Sukij Panpimanmas, M.D., Dean, School of Medicine reported on the event's activities. Following that, Associate Professor Dr. Supakorn Pongbangpho, President, University of Phayao presided over the opening ceremony and led in showing respect by laying a wreath, lighting incense sticks and candles, and joining together in a one-minute salute of silence led by monks in honor and remembrance of His Majesty’s grace and contributions.
On the occasion of the passing of Mahitala Dhibesra Adulyadej Vikrom Phra Borommaratchchanok, September 24th has annually become auspicious and known as ‘Mahidol Day.’ It is a day when Thai people come together to remember His Majesty's grace and contributions. His great contributions have been honored by the Thai people with the name, “Father of Medicine and Public Health of Thailand."
His contributions include strengthening Thailand’s medical schools and developing curriculum, good teaching quality and sustainable learning. His efforts have resulted in producing Thai doctors who are professional and well qualified. Clearly his contributions have laid in building the foundation for a strong and sustainable public health program which is both advanced and on par with other developed countries. In addition, His Majesty Mahidol was talented in other fields such as education, foreign affairs, naval science, and arts. All these attributes and his selfless devotion for excellence have given Thai people a priceless legacy of his contributions. He is also recognized as an important global figure. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has honored His Majesty as. an important figure in the world of education, science, medicine, nursing and public health on the occasion of the 100th-anniversary celebration of His birthday on January 1st, 1992. His Majesty dedicated his royal duties for the benefit of others and therefore the University of Phayao celebrated His legacy.