Thai medical student wins gold at Asia's top emergency medicine contest

A team of medical students from Thammasat University has achieved success at the 10th KKU International Competition in Emergency Medicine (ICEM) 2026. Chawit Wanamongkol, a sixth-year student, won the gold medal in the individual category, while the university's team secured the second runner-up position in the team event. The competition brought together leading medical institutions from Thailand and Japan.

The 10th KKU ICEM 2026 featured three rounds: Preliminary, Semi-Final, and a simulation-based Final using mannequins. Participants were tested on Adult and Pediatric Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS/PALS 2025 guidelines) as well as common emergency scenarios. Among the competitors were students from top Japanese universities, including the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Osaka University, and Tohoku University.

The Thammasat University team included sixth-year students Chawit Wanamongkol, Pheem Phongsukwechakul, and Supapitch Subenja, alongside fifth-year student Thorntarathip Singthong. Wanamongkol, who has been passionate about emergency medicine since his second year, believes calmness, swiftness, and meticulousness define a strong emergency physician. He also emphasised the importance of teamwork in medicine, noting that every healthcare role impacts patient outcomes. Wanamongkol's goal is to become a skilled doctor who can make a difference in people's lives. His dedication to the field was reflected in his individual gold medal win, while the team's coordinated effort earned them the second runner-up award in the team category.

The competition highlighted the skills of future emergency medicine professionals from across Asia. Thammasat University's achievements underscore the team's preparation and expertise in handling critical medical scenarios. Wanamongkol's success in the individual category further reinforces his commitment to the field.