On July 24, 2024, Associate Professor Dr.Ameporn Ratinthorn, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, presided over the opening of the 2024 Annual Academic Conference and General Meeting 2024: “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.” The event was organized by the Lactation Nurse Association of Thailand and the Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University. Associate Professor Dr. Sasikarn Kala, Vice President and Chair of the Academic Committee of the Lactation Nurse Association of Thailand, delivered the report, and Associate Professor Kannikar Vichitsukon, President of Lactation Nurse Association of Thailand, delivered a welcome speech to all participants and announced the award winners of Lactation Nurse the Idol 2024 in four categories:

1) Outstanding Research: Ms. Sukawadee Kessuwan, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Medical Center

2) Outstanding Innovation: Mrs. Piyarat Rodkaew, Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute

3) Outstanding Service in Healthcare Facilities: Ms. Sontaya Nookhao, Thammasat University Hospital

4) Commendable Service in Healthcare Facilities: Ms. Jatuporn Permponsakul, Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital.

The conference, held from July 24-26, 2024, at the Prince Palace Hotel, Bangkok, aimed to foster understanding of breastfeeding policies in line with sustainable development goals, enhance the capabilities of nurses and midwives in continuous breastfeeding support, and facilitate the exchange of breastfeeding experiences. Over 200 participants attended, including representatives from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, nursing instructors, professional nurses, nursing students, healthcare personnel, and interested individuals from various educational institutions and organizations, both public and private.