The ENT surgery and medical training cooperation project in rural Thailand has recently come to a close. Funded under the Sapienza 2024 International Cooperation Call for Proposals, the project aimed to develop joint research and teaching activities, capacity and institutional building, as well as professional development and training initiatives in partnership with developing countries.

Armando De Virgilio, Daniele De Seta and Giannicola Iannella — lecturers in the Department of Sense Organs — undertook the mission, collaborating with the team at Rajavithi Hospital in Bangkok, led by Dr Phakdee Sannikorn, as well as the Rural ENT Foundation. During their time in Thailand, the doctors performed an intensive surgical programme, carrying out over 20 ear surgeries in just two days.

The mission took place at a peripheral hospital in Ubon Ratchathani, a city situated on the border with Cambodia where the need for specialist support is particularly acute. It was a highly meaningful experience from clinical and human perspectives, and it strengthened Sapienza's international cooperation ties.

Last year, through its Call for Proposals on Cooperation with Developing Countries, Sapienza funded a total of 16 projects, categorised by broad geographical areas and specific strategic and/or emergency priorities. The recently concluded initiative in Thailand is a concrete example of Sapienza’s commitment to promoting global health, training, and scientific exchange.