Saint Mary’s University (SMU) has taken a step towards extending international opportunities for its nursing graduates by signing a partnership agreement with vzw CHINTA. The agreement, known as Project Maalaga, aims to recruit nursing graduates from SMU for employment in Belgium and further facilitate the internationalization of the university’s nursing program.
The formal ceremony was attended by top management from SMU and key representatives from vzw CHINTA, signifying the importance of the collaboration. In his message of commitment, Dr. John Octavious Palina, University President of SMU, emphasized the University’s dedication to its mission to its students and employment option pathways for its graduates. Likewise, vzw CHINTA representatives affirmed their organization’s commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership that will enhance the professional journey of Filipino Marian nurses in Belgium.
The formal signing of the MoU marked a milestone in SMU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international ties and create more global career prospects for its graduates. With Project Maalaga, SMU reaffirms its commitment to producing globally competitive nursing professionals equipped to excel in the international healthcare sector.
This collaboration, which was initiated by former SMU chaplain Rev. Fr. Gerry Bouckaert two years ago and facilitated by the SMU Promotions, External Relations and Internationalization Office (PERIO), not only opens doors for Filipino nurses but also cements SMU’s reputation as one of the leading institutions in nursing education and global workforce development. As SMU continues to expand its international partnerships, Project Maalaga stands as a testament to the university’s drive to academic excellence.
Source: SMU