National Institute for Child and Family Development, Mahidol University Welcomes Delegation from Ritsumeikan University, Japan

The National Institute for Child and Family Development (NICFD), Mahidol University, organized an academic symposium in collaboration with researchers from Ritsumeikan University and the University of Human Environments, Japan, as well as Chulalongkorn University, held on August 21–22, 2025 at NICFD, Mahidol University, Salaya Campus.

The event was honored to have an opening address delivered by Professor Apichart Chittacharoen, M.D., Deputy Director of NICFD, with the session moderated by Associate Professor Dr. Wimolthip Musikapan, and closing remarks given by Chatchai Imarom, M.D., Deputy Director for International Relations of NICFD.

The symposium featured academic presentations on postpartum childcare support, cross-cultural parenting practices in Asia, early childhood development, family empowerment programs, and discussions on future academic collaboration between the institutions. In addition, participants visited NICFD’s Early Childhood Development Center and its Inclusive Education Project, which integrates children with special needs alongside typically developing peers in a shared classroom environment.

The event brought together more than 30 participants, including 4 professors from Ritsumeikan University and the University of Human Environments, Japan, 6 international students from the University of Human Environments, Japan, 7 master’s students from NICFD’s three graduate programs, 4 researchers and students from Chulalongkorn University, as well as NICFD’s executives, faculty members, and staff.

This symposium highlights the shared mission of the participating institutions to advance knowledge, enhance the quality of life for children and families, and foster sustainable international academic collaboration.