The Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (TUCN), Romania, conferred the honorary degree of Doctor Honoris Causa upon Professor Pongruk Sribanditmongkol, M.D., Ph.D., President of Chiang Mai University, in recognition of his distinguished achievements in academia, research, and university administration, as well as his contributions to academic excellence and international university collaboration. The conferment ceremony was held on May 12, 2026, at Aula HUB TUCN, in the presence of university executives, members of the University Senate, faculty members, educational personnel, and representatives from the business sector.

The Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (TUCN) is recognized as one of Romania’s leading universities and is widely renowned for its excellence in advanced engineering and research. TUCN and Chiang Mai University have maintained a strong and enduring academic partnership for more than 13 years. The university is committed to integrating expertise in engineering, technology, and medical sciences to advance research and innovation that address global challenges. Key areas of collaboration include the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Medical Imaging, and Intelligent Diagnosis. In addition, TUCN actively contributes to the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas related to health, environmental sustainability, and long-term development.

This honorary degree reflects the significant role of Professor Pongruk Sribanditmongkol, M.D., Ph.D., in strengthening the academic partnership between the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca and Chiang Mai University, resulting in meaningful collaborations across various areas, including joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, interdisciplinary knowledge integration, and the development of joint doctoral programs.

Prior to the honorary degree conferment ceremony, the executive teams of both universities, led by Professor Pongruk Sribanditmongkol, M.D., Ph.D., President of Chiang Mai University, and Prof. Dr. Eng. Vasile Topa, Rector of the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, held a bilateral meeting to explore opportunities for expanding academic collaboration and joint research initiatives. The discussion also focused on promoting future faculty and student exchanges between the two institutions. The meeting was honored by the presence of Ms. Panalee Choosri and Ms. Nattwara Sanitwong, representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy in Bucharest, Romania, who attended the meeting as honored guests.