Nursing, MedTech students complete 14-day mobility and exchange program in Vietnam

Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology students from the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS) completed a 14-day Mobility and Exchange Program at Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy (TUMP), Nov. 23 - Dec. 6.

The students completed all scheduled academic and cultural activities and delivered their final presentation during the closing ceremony held Dec. 5. The program was conducted under the supervision of TUMP International Cooperation Office representative Dao Thi Hong Phuong and faculty-in-charge Catherine Bainto.

MSEUF recognized the second batch of CNAHS mobility program completers, namely Mickaela Victoria Yara, Gwyneth Maureen Barretto, Rio Nicole Mendoza, Vivian Marie Pacheco, Aizelle Pinon, Cherry Samantha Galan, Megan Marie De La Torre, and John Matthew Abanilla.

John Matthew Abanilla, a BS Nursing student, said the experience strengthened his understanding of transcultural nursing.

“Hospital tours showed efficient workflows in departments such as ICU and Respiratory, which I can adapt to improve patient care back home. The cultural immersion made me more empathetic and prepared me for borderless nursing,” Abanilla said.

Vivian Marie Pacheco, a BS Medical Technology student, shared that the exchange provided valuable insights into Vietnam’s health care system and culture. She noted similarities between Vietnamese and Philippine health systems while observing that some laboratories in Vietnam use more advanced technology. “The experience deepened my appreciation for ethical research, laboratory techniques, and cultural preservation,” she said.

Second-time mobility participants Gwyneth Maureen Barretto and Megan Marie De La Torre, who previously joined a student exchange program in Thailand, described the Vietnam experience as another meaningful opportunity for global learning.

Barretto said the program offered deeper insight into how cultural diversity influences medical practice, while De La Torre highlighted how the experience strengthened her confidence, adaptability, and commitment to culturally sensitive service.

The mobility program reinforced CNAHS’ commitment to producing globally competent and culturally responsive health professionals through international academic exposure and collaboration.

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The program reflects the University’s commitment to Excellence and Service by providing transformative international learning experiences that enhance professional competence. It also demonstrates Unity and Fortitude as students adapt to diverse health systems and cultures while pursuing holistic, outcomes-oriented education.

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – By strengthening the preparation of future health professionals.

• SDG 4: Quality Education – Through international academic exchange and experiential learning.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – By fostering sustained collaboration between MSEUF and Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy.