This week, Nkumba University hosted nursing students from the University of Copenhagen under an international study exchange program aimed at strengthening global collaboration in healthcare education and professional practice.
The exchange, which ran between Wednesday and Friday, brought together students and lecturers from the two institutions for a series of interactive learning sessions focused on healthcare systems, ethical practice, and cultural exchange in nursing education.
Welcoming the visiting students, Nkumba University Vice Chancellor Prof. Jude Lubega encouraged them to embrace the Ugandan learning environment and feel part of the university community. “This is your home. When you are here, you are our students. We will give you all the support you need. Feel at home,” said Prof. Jude.
The engagement offered students an opportunity to compare the healthcare systems of Uganda and Denmark, with discussions centered on healthcare delivery models, patient-centered care, and the evolving role of nurses in addressing global health challenges.
Lecturers also guided students through conversations on ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in clinical settings, including patient confidentiality, resource constraints, and professional decision-making across different healthcare environments.
The Principal of the Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Aness Babirye, said the program reflects the growing importance of international partnerships in improving nursing education and exposing students to diverse healthcare experiences. “Such engagements continue to strengthen mutual learning and reaffirm the value of global partnerships in advancing health education and professional development,” Babirye said.
She revealed that the visiting students will also participate in the Department of Nursing and Midwifery’s International Nurses Day celebrations scheduled for May 13 at Nkumba University.
According to Babirye, the event is being organized in partnership with Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital and Uganda Red Cross Society as part of activities to mark International Nurses Day, annually observed worldwide on May 12 in honor of the contribution nurses make to healthcare systems. “Expect complimentary healthcare services, including screening for HIV/AIDS, Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Cervical Cancer, and Tuberculosis, voluntary blood donation, management and treatment of minor ailments, professional health counselling services, and access to modern contraceptive methods. Each One, Bring One,” Babirye said.
Over the years, Ugandan universities have increasingly embraced international academic exchange programs as institutions seek to strengthen research, improve professional training, and expose students to global best practices in healthcare and other disciplines.
For Nkumba University, the collaboration adds to ongoing efforts by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery to expand practical learning opportunities while positioning the institution as a growing hub for international academic partnerships in the region.