Eleven SU PT Interns join educational and cultural exchange program in Japan

Eleven (11) Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT) interns from the Silliman University (SU) Institute of Rehabilitative Sciences (IRS) are currently in Japan for the Physical Therapy Cultural Exposure and Exchange Program, held from October 25 to November 1, 2025.

The educational tour is hosted by Nagoya Gakuin University (NGU) and aims to expose SU interns to advanced academic and clinical practices in Japan’s healthcare and physical therapy education. The visit allows the students to compare and contrast these with the training and practices at SU.

Through the program, the interns are expected to (1) learn about Japan’s healthcare and physical therapy practices; (2) share Silliman’s rehabilitation techniques and experiences; (3) develop cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills; (4) build international friendships and professional connections; and (5) gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and values.

As part of the exchange, SU interns will hold a fellowship session with NGU students, offering insights into the process of acquiring physical therapy licensing in the Philippines.

Both universities stand to benefit from this international engagement. The partnership fosters academic and professional growth, as students and faculty exchange knowledge, research, and best practices in physical therapy education and clinical training.

During the visit, SU students will attend advanced classes not currently offered at the IRS, including sessions on the use of ultrasonography in diagnosing clinical conditions, a technology widely used in Japan’s PT practice.

Hospital and clinic tours also form part of the program, providing interns with the opportunity to observe real-world physical therapy applications.

Led by Dr. Paolo Manuel G. Jimenez, IRS director, the visiting team included faculty members Alexa C. Tiu and Nydinne Isabel C. Enabe.