Mr. Salvador Llavore, a faculty member at the College of Community Health and Allied Medical Sciences (CCHAMS), completed an academic engagement at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) under the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Program, which ran from May 26–June 8, 2025.

Hosted by UEF’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing Science, the two-week program featured collaborative academic activities, professional networking, and cultural immersion.

Llavore began his visit with a meeting with Professor Tarja Valimäki and toured UEF’s health science facilities. The next day, he met with Professors Ari Haaranen and Juha Pajari, who previously visited DMMMSU under the same Erasmus+ program, to discuss innovations in nursing education and nurse educator development. He presented his research portfolio at the LORE Department, highlighting his work from the Philippines, and visited the Department of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition to attend a doctoral defense, gaining insights into Finland’s research culture.

To observe Finnish healthcare practices, Llavore visited Kuopio University Hospital. He also attended an academic course and observed UEF’s entrance examinations, gaining perspectives on Finland’s educational and assessment methods.

Llavore participated in cultural activities, including a guided city tour and a nature excursion to Koli National Park. He toured UEF’s Joensuu Campus, met with Erasmus+ Adviser Kirsi Karjalainen, and visited the International Office to explore future collaboration opportunities. Additionally, he attended a formal dinner hosted by UEF’s Faculty of Health Sciences at Kuopio Saana, strengthening institutional ties.

To conclude his visit, Llavore attended UEF’s doctoral conferment ceremony, presented his project summary, and participated in planning future collaborations between DMMMSU and UEF. (By Jesus Rafael B. Jarata)