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SMU launches Project Maalaga with international partners
Saint Mary’s University (SMU), through the Promotions, External Relations, and Internationalization Office, launched “Project Maalaga” on February 13, 2025. The project addresses healthcare needs and international collaboration in nursing education. The event in the University boardroom gathered key stakeholders for discussions and site visits to enhance nursing education and training opportunities.
The partnership meeting, led by the Department of Nursing of the School of Health and Natural Sciences, started with a performance by the SMU Chorale and a welcome message from SMU President Dr. John Octavious Palina. The event brought together top SMU officials and representatives from vzw Chinta of Belgium, underscoring their shared commitment to advancing healthcare needs and opportunities for internationalization in nursing education.
During the session, Mr. Jean-Baptist Vandeneede presented the objectives and proposed timeline of Project Maalaga. At the same time, Dr. Sherylou Benig provided an overview of SMU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Discussions covered aspects such as the Memorandum of Agreement, Dutch language training implementation, and employment opportunities for SMU nursing graduates in Belgium.
The foreign partners were given a guided tour of SMU’s facilities, including classrooms designated for Dutch language training and nursing laboratories. They then visited SMU’s local partners.
A key highlight of the day was the meet-and-greet session at the university, where vzw Chinta representatives introduced the program to the SMU nursing students. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, allowing participants to gain insights into Project Maalaga and the professional opportunities it serves.
The productive discussions and strategic site visits on the first day laid the foundation for continued collaboration. Excitement builds as participants look forward to the official Partnership Signing Ceremony on February 14, 2025, marking a significant milestone in global healthcare education initiatives.
