West Visayas State University (WVSU) welcomed a delegation from Yokohama City University today, September 1, for a three-day transcultural nursing program aimed at enhancing healthcare practices and cultural awareness.
The team, led by Dr. Eriko Shinohara and Assistant Professor Masaki Kidera of YCU’s School of Medicine, was formally introduced during WVSU’s flag ceremony by CON Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes. A courtesy call with WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz followed, affirming the strong partnership between the two institutions.
“We are honored to host students from Yokohama City University as we continue to build bridges of learning and cultural understanding. This exchange is not only an opportunity to share best practices in nursing and health care but also a chance to strengthen the friendship between our institutions and our peoples,” Dr. Villaruz said.
As part of the program, both universities introduced their faculty and student representatives. Prof. Christopher T. Palmares, Internationalization (IZN) Coordinator of WVSU-CON, shared the history of the college, while student representatives from YCU discussed Japan’s healthcare and nursing systems as well as maternal health practices in Japan. WVSU-CON students also presented the theme “All for Health Towards Health for All”.
The sessions included cultural presentations by YCU delegates highlighting Japanese culture, youth perspectives, and university activities, followed by group discussions, reflections, and exchange of ideas.
Beyond academic exchanges, the program also includes community and clinical immersion activities designed to enhance transcultural nursing practices. The delegation will visit the La Paz Maternity and Reproductive Health Center for prenatal consultations, followed by an exposure trip to Healthway Qualimed Hospital. They are also scheduled to visit the Nabitasan Health Center and the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Inc. Clinic, where they will observe fertility and family planning consultations. The three-day visit will conclude with a closing program at the College of Nursing Amphitheater.
The partnership aims to foster mutual learning and understanding in nursing education, deepen cultural awareness, and strengthen health sciences collaboration between Japan and the Philippines.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
