As part of Biliran Province State University’s (BiPSU) commitment to internationalization and academic excellence, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) participated in the International Cultural Immersion Program and Networking held in South Korea from June 8 to 21, 2026. The program was implemented under the University’s internationalization initiatives through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Internationalization, and Strategic Partnerships headed by Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, providing BPSU students with opportunities for global learning, intercultural engagement, and professional development.

Representing the School of Nursing and Health Sciences were Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dean, together with seven Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students: Virgie Lynn Adobo, Alayzha Babon, Marie Antoinette Buni, Rachiel Grace Cabillan, Arrianne Lou Clemencio, Alleanah Rose Pagador, and Blessie Rose Sidaya.

The program provided participants with a comprehensive international learning experience that integrated clinical exposure with meaningful cultural immersion. Through hospital orientation, ward observations, simulation activities, and professional interactions with healthcare practitioners in a partner healthcare institution, the students gained firsthand insights into international nursing practice, patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and healthcare delivery in a global context.

Beyond the clinical setting, the participants immersed themselves in South Korea’s rich history, traditions, and everyday life through visits to historical and cultural landmarks and meaningful engagement with local communities. These experiences broadened their understanding of the relationship between culture and healthcare, enabling them to appreciate how cultural beliefs, values, and social contexts influence health behaviors, healthcare delivery, and nursing practice. The immersion further strengthened their cultural competence and preparedness to provide compassionate, culturally responsive, and patient-centered care in diverse healthcare environments.

Representing the academic interests of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel also Representing the academic interests of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, also assessed the potential for future international academic collaborations and clinical learning experiences that could further enrich the University’s nursing program. The visit provided an opportunity to examine the potential integration of international clinical exposure into the School’s Related Learning Experience (RLE) program, ensuring alignment with the expected learning outcomes, professional competencies, and quality standards of nursing education while supporting the University’s continuing pursuit of excellence in nursing instruction.

The International Cultural Immersion Program and Networking, underscores BiPSU’s commitment to producing globally competent, culturally responsive, and practice-ready nursing professionals. By expanding international learning opportunities and strengthening global academic partnerships, the University continues to equip its future nurses with the knowledge, skills, and intercultural perspectives necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global healthcare environment.