Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Dentistry Welcomes International Dental Students through BRIDGE Program to Explore Dentistry and Cultural Exchange
Where bridges are built and borders blur — Be Ready for the BRIDGE Program!
From July 30 to August 2, 2025, the Department of International Affairs, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, organized the Building Relationships for International Development, Growth, and Exchange (BRIDGE) Program. This initiative aimed to provide international dental students with academic enrichment and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
This year’s BRIDGE Program welcomed 38 exchange students from 10 partner institutions around the world:
Peking University, China
Showa Medical University, Japan
Yonsei University, South Korea
University of Washington, USA
Hasanuddin University, Indonesia
Padjadjaran University, Indonesia
Jenderal Achmad Yani University, Indonesia
University of the Philippines Manila, Philippines
University of the East, Philippines
Iloilo Doctors’ College, Philippines
The program began with an opening ceremony and an introduction to the Faculty of Dentistry at the Raluekkhun Room, presided over by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rangsima Sakoolnamarka, Associate Dean for International Affairs, Corporate Communication, and Social Activities
Following the introduction, the international students joined ice-breaking activities with Chulalongkorn dental students to build friendships and ease into the program. The official opening of the exchange was then presided over by Prof. Pornchai Jansisyanont, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry.
During the program, students attended two academic lectures
1. Role of Endodontics in the Life Cycle of the Teeth by Assoc. Prof. Sirawut Hiran-us, Department of Operative Dentistry (July 30, Raluek khun Room)
2.Orthognathic Surgery by Assist. Prof. Vorapat Trachoo, Department of Oral Surgery and Assist. Prof. Thanit Charoenrat, Department of Orthodontics (July 31, Room 209)
They also took part in two hands-on workshops:
- Occlusal Anatomy Wax Carving Workshop Competition (July 30, Dental Laboratory, 11th Floor, Borommanard Srinakarin Building)
- Class II Resin Composite Workshop hosted by the Department of Operative Dentistry (July 31, Dental Laboratory, 2nd Floor, Building 1)
Beyond dental education, the program offered rich cultural immersion through the following activities:
In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya:
- Traditional Thai dessert-making (Ja Mongkut) at Ruean Kanom Thai Klaiwan, Phak Hai District
- Guided tour of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, including Wat Phra Si Sanphet
In Bangkok:
- Visit to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Visit to Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
- Exploration of Museum Siam
- Visit to Tha Tian Market
To conclude the program, a farewell party was held at the Faculty’s multipurpose hall, Somdejya 93 Building. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rangsima Sakoolnamarka gave the closing remarks, followed by the presentation of certificates and souvenirs to the exchange participants.
This year’s BRIDGE Program marked a significant milestone in strengthening relationships with dental institutions worldwide, with participation from over 10 international universities. It also reflects Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Dentistry’s readiness and capability to host international academic and cultural initiatives of this scale. The program is expected to be held again in the future.