NTNU Students Join SLSU for International Social Work Field Immersion

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) warmly welcomed student delegates from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Norway, during a Welcome and Courtesy Program held on February 27, 2026, at the Office of the President – Board Room. The event marked the official opening of the five-week International Social Work Immersion at the Maasin City Campus and highlighted SLSU’s commitment to strengthening global academic partnerships.

The program, titled “Enhancing Global Social Work Education through Field Immersion: A Collaboration between NTNU and SLSU–Maasin City Campus,” brings together NTNU Social Work students and SLSU third-year Bachelor of Science in Social Work students for collaborative community engagement activities in Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte welcomed the students and emphasized the evolution of the partnership between SLSU and NTNU. “What began as an exploratory visit and academic dialogue has now grown into a meaningful and concrete collaboration. We may be oceans apart, but distance will not hinder the strong relationship we aim to build with you,” Dr. Duarte said.

Dr. Ingrid M. Uy, Director for External Linkages and International Affairs, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in enriching students’ academic and cultural experiences. She expressed her excitement in fostering learning, collaboration, and lasting friendships between NTNU students and the SLSU community. “We are honored to host such bright and promising students who bring diverse perspectives, valuable insights, and a strong spirit of global engagement,” Dr. Uy remarked.

Ms. Elmee Joy D. Oraiz, RSW, MSSW, Program Head of Social Work, facilitated the “Getting to Know the International Immersion” session, which introduced the objectives, structure, and expected outcomes of the exchange program. University officials, including Vice Presidents Dr. Marie Khul C. Langub, Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Dr. Constantino G. Medillo Jr., and Dr. Christine Alma Mae M. Daguplo, as well as Faculty Dean Ms. Karina G. Gutierrez, expressed full support for the partnership and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering international linkages that enhance academic excellence and community engagement.

The five-week immersion integrates SLSU’s Community Organization and Social Work Community Education and Training courses with NTNU’s global social work learning framework. Students from both institutions will collaborate in partner communities to conduct participatory assessments, facilitate community-based activities, and develop responsive and sustainable interventions.

“This program is a milestone for the Maasin City Campus, hosting an international immersion of this scale for the first time,” said Dean Gutierrez. She encouraged students to make the most of the opportunity to learn from one another and build lasting cultural connections.

The initiative underscores SLSU’s dedication to producing graduates who are globally competitive yet locally responsive, professionals equipped with cultural sensitivity, ethical grounding, and strong community-based practice competencies. It also strengthens the University’s Internationalization thrust under the LUPAD framework, positioning SLSU as a strategic partner in meaningful global academic collaboration.