The meeting resolution approved the appointment of "Professor Dr. Keerati Charoencholvanich" as the new Dean of Siriraj Faculty of Medicine, starting October 1, 2026, to promote development in all dimensions.
A reporter reported that at the Mahidol University Council meeting on 15 July 2026, the council approved the appointment of Professor Dr. Keerati Charoencholvanich head of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Physical Therapy at Siriraj Faculty of Medicine, as the new Dean of Siriraj Faculty of Medicine, replacing Professor Dr. Apichat Asawamongkolkul whose term is ending, with a four-year term beginning 1 October 2026.
Professor Dr. Keerati said Siriraj will be a health and well-being institution for humanity, committed to elevating Siriraj to be recognized among the top 100 medical institutions worldwide by developing all aspects, including international connections. Many areas at Siriraj have progressed significantly, and he intends to make Siriraj a leader and role model for other institutions to learn from and apply for broader benefit. However, with many patients and limited space, much adjustment is needed, particularly incorporating technology to reduce duplication and errors, allowing staff to provide quality care for every life.
At the same time, motivation and retention of all staff to work happily and with pride in the system are essential. Budget is another challenge because resources are limited, so allocation and management must be efficient, reducing duplicated research or innovation through collaboration across government and private sectors. For example, Thailand’s Genomics project gathers and builds a large genetic database of Thai people, clearly divided with Chulalongkorn Hospital handling rare diseases, Ramathibodi Hospital responsible for chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and Siriraj focusing on cancer. This collaboration aims for comprehensive coverage and maximum efficiency.
Professor Dr. Keerati also said Siriraj cannot proceed alone as it is not expert in every field. It must build partnerships bringing expertise and funding from the private sector to support various developments, including the media, which plays a crucial role as a communication bridge to show society the work, research, innovations, and services of the Faculty of Medicine, whether Siriraj or other institutions, to benefit society. At the same time, the media invites society to participate in supporting the institution’s innovation efforts.