For the 13th time, International Week has been organized by the international team at the Division of Occupational Therapy at NVS. The initiative, which started in 2012 through a collaboration with Uganda via the Linnaeus-Palme program, aims to create a vibrant international learning environment with a focus on professional identity in healthcare from a global perspective.
A week of global participation
International Week took place during week 19, from May 5 to 9, 2025, and gathered a total of 36 students and 9 visiting teachers from 11 different countries: Greece, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Taiwan, Uganda, Belgium, Denmark, Slovenia, Austria, the USA, and Sweden. The week was held at ANA 23 and offered a rich variety of teaching methods and activities.
Learning from an interprofessional perspective
The week began with a joint kick-off for students and teachers, followed by a comprehensive program of lectures, seminars, workshops, group work, a "Human Library," and poster presentations. All teaching focused on professional identity from an interprofessional perspective.
One of the strengths this year was that teachers were actively encouraged to share their personal and professional experiences, which contributed to deeper learning and increased reflection among participating students.
Strong international networks and social community
In addition to the academic components, the week also provided rich opportunities for networking, both within and between professions, as well as between teachers and students. Two appreciated mingling events were organized: one by the international committee at NVS together with the Department of Occupational Therapy, and one by the students themselves.
Positive feedback from participants
The evaluation showed that both students and teachers were highly engaged and satisfied with the week. The program was perceived as well-planned, inspiring, and educational, and all participants felt that the week achieved its learning objectives, both in terms of knowledge and social experiences.
International Week thus continues to be a significant platform for internationalization, interprofessional learning, and professional development at NVS.
Text: Mandana Fallahpour
