Welwitchia Faculty of Health Sciences Deepens Global Collaboration Through Finnish Exchange

Senior faculty members from the Welwitchia Faculty of Health Sciences recently completed a week-long academic exchange at the University of Turku, Finland, from 12–16 May 2025. This visit was part of the Interprofessional Simulation Education in Africa (ISEA) project, a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming health sciences education across the continent through advanced simulation-based teaching.

The ISEA project, coordinated by the University of Turku and supported by the Team Finland Knowledge (TFK) program, brings together leading universities from Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Its primary objective is to develop and implement innovative simulation pedagogy tailored to the specific needs and realities of African higher education. Through this collaboration, faculty members are trained in the latest simulation-based teaching methods, equipping them to deliver high-quality, interprofessional education to both medical and nursing students.

During the exchange, Welwitchia’s faculty participated in intensive training sessions at the University of Turku Simulation Centre. The program covered all aspects of simulation-based education, including scenario design, facilitation, implementation, and debriefing. These skills will be cascaded to educators and students at Welwitchia and other partner institutions, with the goal of reaching over 1,600 students annually.

This initiative addresses a critical gap in interprofessional simulation-based education (IPSE) in Africa, supporting the development of a healthcare workforce that is ready for collaborative practice. By pooling expertise and resources, the ISEA project strengthens international educational partnerships and ensures that African health sciences institutions remain at the forefront of innovation and best practice.

Welwitchia University’s participation in the ISEA project underscores its commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and the advancement of healthcare education in Namibia and beyond.