Filipino students visit Canberra

The University of Canberra hosted 12 nursing students from the University of Santo Tomas College of Nursing (UST) in the Philippines, giving both student cohorts new insights into international nursing education and practice.

Professor Kim Foster, head of the disciplines of nursing and midwifery at UC, said the visit was for cross-cultural experiences and perspectives on healthcare provision.

“What we found helpful … was that both groups of students got to meet with and engage and discuss their different perspectives on how healthcare is provided in the Philippines and here in Australia,” Foster said.

Genecar Pe Benito, a nursing lecturer at UST, was in agreement, saying these types of trips are important for students.

UST student Angela Buensalida said: "We've learnt about the differences between Filipino and Australian culture and we can apply the lessons we have learnt here to our study back home.”

The students from UST used UC’s simulation equipment, which they had not used before.

Assistant professor Mardhie Coleman, co-ordinator of international nursing students, said: “The Filipino students were quite impressed with the level of technology and the diversity of learning environments our students are allowed to use, such as simulations."

For part of the trip, UC worked in partnership with ACT Health; the UST students visited Canberra Hospital. Coleman said the students were impressed with the level of autonomy Australian nurses seemed to have in terms of advocating for their patients.

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