February 28, 2025
by Muhammad Farhan Mahmud & Dr. Nurasikin Mohamad Shariff
Location: University of the Immaculate Conception, Davao City, Philippines
The Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM participated in an outbound mobility programme at the College of Nursing, University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC), Davao City. The five-day programme provided a platform for academic collaboration, research sharing, and community engagement, fostering international partnerships in nursing education. The Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM delegation joined the Opening Program of GCNEP 2025 on the first day of the programme, where they were warmly welcomed through institutional visits, including a courtesy visit to the University President’s office, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) – Ministry of Education, and the Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City. A tour across UIC’s three campuses allowed delegates to gain insights into the university’s nursing education and facilities.
During the second day, the delegation took part in a Community Immersion Program at Barangay Buhangin and Zonta Village, Davao City. This engagement allowed them to observe and experience firsthand the community healthcare system in the Philippines, exchanging ideas on how nursing interventions can improve healthcare services at the grassroots level. The programme continued with the Special Lecture and Research Sharing Day, featuring insightful presentations. Dr. Nurasikin Mohamad Sharif from Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM delivered a lecture on Spirituality and Spiritual Care as Preventive Measures in Mental Health, while Dr. Amirah Fatin Ibrahim shared her research on Community-Based Participatory Research to enhance healthcare accessibility for the elderly. The session was followed by Networking & Engagement Activities, where the IIUM delegates connected with faculty members and students from UIC and other participating institutions.
On the next day, IIUM delegates participated in the Research and Joint Publication Meeting, where they collaborated with UIC researchers to brainstorm research ideas, establish methodologies, and discuss potential joint publications. The session aimed to develop high-impact nursing research and strengthen academic collaboration. In the afternoon, the delegation attended the Guest Lecture and Research Sharing Session with Invited Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Dr. Ashikin Atan discussed Ethical Issues in Nursing Education, while Dr. Lee Siew Piern presented on Children’s Voice in Healthcare: Enhancing Participation in Nursing Care Decisions. Additionally, Dr. Siti Hazarah Abdul Hamid addressed Adolescents’ Sexual and Reproductive Health: Dual Responsibility for Family and Health System, providing critical insights into youth health policies.
The programme concluded on 28 February, with the Closing Program of GCNEP 2025 (Phase 2), where key takeaways were summarized, and future research collaborations were outlined. A Final City Tour allowed delegates to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Davao City, fostering stronger international camaraderie. The outbound mobility programme proved to be an enriching experience for the Kulliyyah of Nursing, IIUM delegation, providing valuable exposure to international nursing education, research collaboration, and cultural exchange. The programme successfully strengthened academic networks and opened doors for future collaborative initiatives between IIUM and UIC in advancing global healthcare education.
