UP College of Dentistry Hosts 1st International Academic and Cultural Student Exchange Program

UP College of Dentistry Hosts 1st International Academic and Cultural Student Exchange Program

The University of the Philippines College of Dentistry (UPCD) successfully hosted its 1st International Academic and Cultural Student Exchange Program from February 1-5, 2025, welcoming participants from the Institute of Science Tokyo and the University of Malaya for a week of academic and cultural immersion in the Philippines.

The program featured a range of activities aimed at enriching the participants' understanding of Philippine history, traditions, and dental healthcare. Accompanied by UPCD faculty members and student volunteers, the visiting students explored Intramuros, Fort Santiago, the National Museum, and Rizal Park, gaining deeper insights into the country's rich heritage.

A group photo of participants from Institute of Science Tokyo (AOYAMA MIYUKI, SHIRAISHI SAAYA, and FUJITA TABASA) and University of Malaya (NURSABRINA SAFIAH, NUR DIYANA SUHAIMI, and HANOUN ALMUKHTAR) at National Museum of Fine Arts.

Participants touring around the emergency room of Philippine General Hospital.

As part of their community immersion, the participants visited the Noordhoff Foundation at Our Lady of Peace Hospital, where they engaged with patients, social workers, and healthcare professionals. This experience provided valuable exposure to the dental care and treatment of cleft lip and palate patients in the Philippines. They also toured the University of the Philippines and the Philippine General Hospital, observing dental education and hospital-based services while learning about the local healthcare system.

Participants, program coordinators, and student volunteers at Our Lady of Peace Hospital for a community immersion with cleft lip and palate patients of Noordhoff foundation.

To showcase the country’s natural beauty, the participants embarked on a countryside tour in Tanay, Rizal, where they experienced scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. The program concluded with a Cultural Night, a vibrant celebration of Filipino traditions through music, socialization, and food. Throughout their stay, the participants also had the chance to experience Filipino cuisine, sampling both local delicacies and popular fast-food chains, highlighting the country’s diverse flavors.

Participants, program coordinators, and student volunteers during the Filipino cultural night.

The 1st International Academic and Cultural Student Exchange Program successfully fostered academic collaboration and cross-cultural understanding, strengthening UPCD’s partnerships with its international partner universities. Beyond enhancing their knowledge of dentistry in the Philippines, the participants left with a deeper appreciation for Filipino culture, history, and hospitality, making the program a truly enriching and memorable experience for all involved.