The Diaconia University of Applied Sciences of Helsinki, Finland held a Joint Benchmarking Program: Sharing of Best Practices in the fields of Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Social Work at Palawan State University at the PSU Amphitheater on September 21.

Spearheaded by the Transnational Education, International Affairs and Linkages Office (TNEIALO) headed by Dr, Judy Ann Sarail and the Faculty and Staff Development Office (FSDO) headed by Prof. Ana Javarez, the Benchmarking activity was attended by the officials and deans of Palawan State University headed by Dr. Elucila M. Sespeñe, Vice President for Academic Affairs and the OIC President, and the delegates from Diak headed by Dr. Pirjo Hakala, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Diaconia University of Applied Sciences.

Alongside with the OIC President of the university are Prof. Hermanito Consad, OIC Dean,College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS), Dr. Cymbeline Martinez, Dean, College of Arts and Humanities (CAH), Prof. Michael Angelo Doblado, OIC, University Research Office and the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, and the faculty and staff of various departments and units.

Meanwhile, together with Dr. Hakala are Ms. Paivi Conlin, Dean, Department of Health Sciences, Ms. Paula Ropponen, Senior Lecturer, DIAK Department of Health Sciences, and Ms. Margarita Sakilayan – Latvala, Senior Lecturer, DIAK Social Services.
The program was welcomed by Dr. Sespeñe through her opening remarks followed by the introduction of the keynote speaker delivered by Dr. Sarail. Dr. Hakala then conveyed her keynote speech followed by the presentations of the other officials of DIAK.
The students from Bachelor of Science in Nursing from CNHS and from Bachelor of Science in Social work from CAH also actively participated in the said activity.

While as to showcase the PSUan’s remarkable talent, the CAH Faculty Choir entertained the entire crowd with their musical performance.

The benchmarking activity also consisted of presentations and round table discussions for the participants.