The Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) School of Nursing administrators, faculty members, and students had their first Academic and Cultural Immersion from 20-27 July 2023. The representatives were the following: Dr. Liza G. Floresca RN, MAN, Ph.D., DNS, Dean of the School of Nursing; Dr. Apple Guiao-Alvarez, RN, MN, DNS, Academic Coordinator; Ms. Magnolia A. Jadulang, RN, MN, RLE Coordinator; and faculty members, Mr. Roy Cresencio Linao, RN, MN; Mr. Joel Mikee Beldua, RN, MN; and Ms. Cynthia Jane Villanueva, RN, MN. Four students also joined the visit: Ms. Daniella Beatriz Guiao-Perucho, Ms. Alexandra Niña Marie Catampao, Ms. Jenevieve Surita, and Ms. Nicole Jamero.
During their visit, they engaged in various activities and presented topics like transformative strategies for mental health promotion, substance abuse prevention, nursing in the context of the 5th Industrial Revolution, geriatric nursing, advocacy for nurses’ rights, critical care standards, nursing curriculum best practices, and the Malnutrition Intervention Alternatives research.
In particular, ADDU’s vision, mission, and programs were presented to the faculty and students of Indonesian universities by Dr. Floresca. Another topic on “Empowering Resilience and Well-Being: Transformative Strategies for Mental Health Promotion and Substance Abuse Prevention and Caring Framework in the Philippines” was given by Dr. Apple Alvarez. The talk ignited the heart of the students to expand their knowledge on the promotion of mental health and the prevention of addictive substance abuse in the Philippines. The knowledge and insights gained by the students are expected to be implemented in real-world practice for the benefit of mental health and public well-being.
Moreover, Ms. Villanueva faciliated the session on “Geriatric Nursing in the Philippines.” The audience was amazed by the programs of the Philippines that promote health and prevents illnesses in the elderly. Mr. Linao Jr., ADDU Faculty and the Region XI Governor of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) presented his topic, “Nursing 5.0: Towards the 5TH Industrial Revolution, Charting the Next 100 Years in Advocation for the Rights of Nurses.” The PNA, thru Governor Linao, elaborated on why the PNA has been a champion for the welfare of Filipino nurses. He discussed 2023 roadmap of the Philippine Nurses Association and some current issues concerning all nurses in the Philippines.
The topic, “Critical Care Nursing Practices and Standards in the Philippines,” was presented by Mr. Beldua which focused in the critical care nursing practices and standards in the Philippines. He also highlighted the caring for clients with ischemic heart disease, specifically coronary artery disease, as a silent killer and its complications, and the importance of information dissemination for its prevention. Additionally, Ms. Magnolia May Jadulang presented the “Philippine Nursing Curriculum and Best Practices of ADDU School of Nursing.”
Dr. Liza G. Floresca then presented the Malnutrition Intervention Alternatives (MIA) research. The MIA powder mix is from plant-based ingredients that may be integrated into the overall blueprint of the Philippine government to eradicate malnutrition in Mindanao. Implementing Malnutrition Intervention Alternatives for 3- to 5-year-old children can prevent future health issues and improve children’s overall health. The MIA can help children to have improved cognitive development. The effects were determined by the increase in weight, height, and changes in physical features pre, mid, and post-intervention. From partners in Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Suryani As’ad S.G(K) discussed the topic, “Reducing Stunting.” Their topics are related, and the audience was very interested in asking questions that both were able to answer intellectually.
Finally, Dr. Floresca introduced Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) to the administrators and faculty members of Universitas Muhammadiyah (UNISMUH), Makassar, UNISMUH Sukabumi, and UNISMUH Surabaya. The brilliance of COIL lies in its ability to bring together students and educators from various countries, fostering a global perspective, opening new avenues for cross-cultural understanding, enriching team-taught learning environments, and enhancing the overall educational experience.
Aside from the lectures, the ADDU SON explored Makassar and visited markets, mosques, and landmarks such as Balla Lompoa and Sheikh Yusuf Mosque. Teambuilding activities were also conducted at Leang Leang, a karst mountain geopark with ancient limestone caves and Indonesian cave art. They also visited Rammang-Rammang, an area with ancient human footprints and historical significance.
The trip culminated on 26 July with a cultural exchange, traditional food tasting, and a cultural dance performance from Malaysian students. The observatory tower became the venue for farewells and heartfelt speeches.
The emotional goodbye on 27 July marked the end of the trip as the ADDU delegates returned to their home country, cherishing the memories and friendships forged during their Academic and Cultural Immersion in Makassar, Indonesia. Indeed, this experience marked a significant milestone, and while challenges and difficulties may have arisen along the journey, the joy and happiness outweighed them all. Hopefully, this was just the beginning of many more enriching experiences in the SON.
Article and Photos by Dr. Apple G. Alvarez – School of Nursing
