Manila Central University (MCU) was privileged to host Denmark’s Foreign Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, along with a distinguished Danish delegation, and representatives from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on December 12, 2024.
This visit, the first of its kind to a university in the Philippines, centered on exploring MCU’s nursing programs and internship opportunities. While no formal partnership has been established yet, the visit represents an important step toward future collaboration between MCU and Denmark.
University President Dr. Renato C. Tanchoco Jr., Academic Vice President for Affairs Ms. Giandelu Carissa E. Santos, and Mr. Melvin D. Miranda, Dean of the College of Nursing and Former President of the Philippine Nurses Association, had the privilege of meeting with the Foreign Minister and his delegation. They were also joined by Vice Dean of the College of Nursing, Ms. Vilma M. Bonifacio, and several College of Nursing students. The discussions focused on finding collaborative solutions to global healthcare challenges, particularly in the area of workforce shortages.
During the visit, the Danish delegation, which included key officials including State Secretary for Trade and Investments, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lina Gandløse Hansen, Head of the Department for Asia, Latin America, Oceania and the Carribean (ASILAC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thomas Lund-Sørensen, Chief Advisor of the Department for Asia, Latin America, Oceania and the Carribean (ASILAC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lone Thorup, Minister Secretary Fie Jeppesen Højgaard, Special Advisor Jonar Juul Bechfeldt, Minister Press Carl-Emil Søe, Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin, Senior Commercial Advisor Jo-nie G. Raagas, Admin Officer Alexandra Silos, Public Diplomacy Officer Macneil Mendoza, engaged in discussions about the global shortage of healthcare workers. Danish Radio journalist Philip Roin and photographer Qunyi Zhang were also present to document the event.
They were joined by TESDA officials District Director Leoonardo E. Pinlac, Senior TESDA Specialist Maxene E. Cajayon, ACTED Chief Operating Officer Azeneth D. Jeluz, Curriculum Officer JC Baquiran along with TESDA students to explore ways to strengthen nursing education and expand opportunities for students through practical training and internships.
MCU’s Commitment to Excellence in Nursing Education
During the visit, Mr. Miranda provided a tour of MCU’s nursing facilities, offering an overview of the school’s nursing and healthcare assistant curricula. He also highlighted current trends in the healthcare industry, helping the delegation understand how MCU prepares students for the workforce.
Students had the chance to meet and greet the delegation, learning more about the international opportunities available to them through this partnership.
This highlights the university’s commitment to producing highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to the healthcare sector, both in the Philippines and abroad.
A Bright Future Ahead for Centralino Nursing Students
This future partnership between MCU and Denmark empowers students with global opportunities, elevates nursing education, and proudly positions MCU as a leader in addressing the global healthcare workforce shortage.
