Collaboration between universities can start from a small, tentative contact and grow into a multi-year partnership. Singapore Institute of Technology, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Savonia University of Applied Sciences, and JAMK University of Applied Sciences are currently implementing their second Team Finland Knowledge (TFK)-funded Asia project, aimed at strengthening international and interprofessional cooperation in social and health care. During the first project TFK (FUGA 2020-2022) a five-credit online course focusing on digitalization in rehabilitation was implemented. The COVID –19 fostered to innovate international learning and teaching using online platform and webinars to offer international collaboration for students without travelling. The way of teaching and learning was in line with Kazley et al (2024) and the results of the first project were promising. In the next project round, we encouraged to plan and implement a multidisciplinary intensive course, first in Kuopio and next autumn in Singapore.

This enriching overseas exchange programme focused on global and sustainable health, a diverse group of students and healthcare professionals came together to explore and address pressing health issues. The programme brought together physiotherapy students, occupational therapy students, a speech therapy student, a nurse, and various healthcare administrators, creating a multidisciplinary environment conducive to learning and collaboration.

The intensive week at Savonia-UAS was part of a project funded by TFK to jointly develop a 5 ECTS course for students on Global and Sustainable Health. The main aim of the consortium is to develop and implement two courses, each worth 5 ECTS credits, at EQF level 7. Each partner HEI will recruit 5 students per course. Upon successful completion, students will receive certification and course accreditation. At Savonia, TUAS, and Jamk, these courses are electives for Master of Health Care students. At SIT, they are available to final-year undergraduates in occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech and language therapy.

Experiences from the first Global and Sustainable Health course

The first edition of the course consisted of a virtual part and an intensive week at Savonia-UAS in Kuopio. For students, the virtual part was an introductory lecture and info to the course. After that, students independently studied and completed a learning task before the face-to-face, intensive week (Picture 1). During the intensive week students participated in lectures given by various experts. In addition, students worked in groups and produced joint presentations. After the intensive-week, they continued to work independently on the course theme in the form of a learning assignment.

Picture 1. Students and teachers of the course.

Objectives of the intensive week programme

The primary objectives of the programme were threefold:

1. Identify and Discuss Global Health Issues, Health Advocacy, Diplomacy, and Global Health Actors: Participants engaged in discussions and workshops to understand the complexities of global health challenges. They explored the roles of various global health actors and the importance of health advocacy and diplomacy in addressing these issues.

2. Explore and Compare Healthcare Strategies in Supporting the Ageing Population: The programme provided a platform for participants to compare different healthcare strategies aimed at supporting the ageing population. This included examining policies, practices, and innovations from different countries.

3. Evaluate Potential Areas of Rehabilitation Sustainability: Participants evaluated various sustainable rehabilitation practices that promote healthy living. This included hands-on experiences and exposure to innovative rehabilitation techniques.

Unique Experiences and Learning Opportunities

One of the programme’s highlights was the exposure of students from Singapore to nature rehabilitation, a concept relatively new to them. This experience was designed to broaden their understanding of rehabilitation practices and introduce them to alternative methods that promote holistic health.

Nordic Walking: Students were given the opportunity to use Nordic walking poles and participate in Nordic walking sessions. This activity not only provided physical benefits but also highlighted the importance of outdoor activities in rehabilitation. (Picture 2.)

Picture 2. Nordic walking to Puijo tower.

Finnish Culture: Immersing in the Finnish culture was a significant part of the programme. Students experienced the traditional Finnish sauna, swam in the pristine lakes, and indulged in sumptuous Finnish cuisine. These activities provided a holistic understanding of how cultural practices can contribute to health and well-being.

Aurora Sighting: A truly magical moment for the participants was witnessing the auroras in the heart of Kuopio. This rare and breathtaking experience added a unique dimension to the programme, emphasising the importance of environmental factors in health and well-being.

Reflections and Outcomes

The programme was a resounding success, achieving its objectives and providing participants with invaluable experiences and insights. The multidisciplinary approach allowed for rich discussions and a deeper understanding of global health issues. Participants left with a greater appreciation for the role of health advocacy and diplomacy in addressing these challenges.

The comparison of healthcare strategies for the ageing population revealed both commonalities and differences, providing valuable lessons that participants could take back to their respective countries. The hands-on experiences in nature rehabilitation and exposure to Finnish culture enriched the students’ understanding of sustainable rehabilitation practices.

Among course topics, a fairly new approach, namely environmental physiotherapy was introduced to students enhancing their knowledge concerning environmental health and sustainability issues. Factors such as air and water quality, and access to green spaces can have a remarkable influence on physical and mental well-being. Identifying these factors and incorporating environmental considerations into traditional practices aims to promote health and advocate for protecting natural resources. (Maric &Nicholls 2019)

Overall, the programme fostered a spirit of collaboration and learning, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to contribute to global health initiatives. The memories of Nordic walking, Finnish saunas, and the awe-inspiring auroras will undoubtedly stay with them, serving as a reminder of the importance of cultural and environmental factors in promoting health and well-being.

Authors:

Lee-Moling Mauricette, PhD, Assistant Professor, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore

Katajapuu Niina, PhD, Principal lecturer, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Sihvonen Sanna, PhD, Principal lecturer, Jamk University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Äijö Marja, PhD, Principal lecturer, Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Finland

References:

Kazley, Abby Swanson et al. “International and Interprofessional Collaboration: An Innovative Week of Learning Across Three Professions, Three Universities, and One Ocean.” Nursing education perspectives 45.3 (2024): 192–193. Web

Maric F, Nicholls D. A call for a new environmental physiotherapy-An editorial. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice (2019):35(10) 905–907. https://doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2019.1632006