The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON) proudly represented the Philippines at the 22nd Asia Workforce Forum (AWFF), hosted by the Malaysian Nurses Association (MNA) in collaboration with the International Council of Nurses (ICN). Held on November 20–22, 2024, at the Maya Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the forum brought together nursing leaders from across Asia to discuss critical workforce issues, share innovative solutions, and strengthen the nursing profession on a global scale.
Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang, Dean of UC-CON, actively participated in this prestigious event, underscoring the institution’s commitment to contributing to international conversations on nursing workforce challenges and sustainable healthcare practices.
Forum Highlights
The AWFF featured a comprehensive three-day agenda aimed at tackling workforce-related concerns and fostering collaboration among nursing leaders.
Day 1: November 20, 2024
- Opening Remarks: ICN CEO Howard Catton and MNA President Dr. Aisyahton Suhaimi welcomed participants, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing workforce challenges.
- Malpractice Insurance: A session led by Dr. Suhaimi explored the necessity of individual malpractice insurance for nurses, sparking lively discussions on its advantages and potential drawbacks.
- State of the World’s Nursing Report: Presented by Mr. Catton, this session provided a global perspective on nursing challenges, including workforce migration and staffing issues.
- Workforce Priorities: Nursing associations shared their strategies and initiatives in a collaborative “tour de table” session, fostering regional dialogue and idea-sharing.
Day 2: November 21, 2024
- WHO Updates: Ms. Ai Tanimizu, Regional Advisor for Nursing (SEARO), and the newly appointed Nursing Officer from WHO WPRO presented strategies to strengthen nursing leadership and networks across Asia.
- Balancing Technology and Skills: Ms. L. Yohgasundary highlighted the importance of integrating technology with hands-on clinical expertise in an evolving healthcare landscape.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Ms. Abidah Yasin led discussions on fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to address complex healthcare challenges.
The day ended with the forum adopting a joint communique, summarizing key issues and agreements, followed by a presentation of certificates and a group photo with global nursing leaders.
Day 3: November 22, 2024 – 18th Alliance of Asian Nurses’ Association (AANA) Meeting
The final day of the event featured the 18th AANA Meeting, where nursing leaders from 17 national nursing associations across Asia gathered to discuss regional issues and strengthen collaboration.
- Opening Session: Dr. Aisyahton Suhaimi, President of MNA, emphasized the importance of regional networking and collaboration among nursing organizations.
- NNA Reports: Representatives from national nursing associations (NNAs) such as the Chinese Nursing Association, the Philippine Nurses Association, and others presented updates on key developments, challenges, and achievements in their countries.
- Telehealth and AI in Nursing: MNA led a session exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in nursing practice, focusing on how it can enhance patient care while addressing ethical and implementation challenges.
- Reframing the Nursing Profession: A session titled “The Downfall of the Nursing Profession” addressed misconceptions about nursing, discussing how these misperceptions contribute to the lack of recognition and respect for the profession. Solutions included fostering stronger collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and nursing organizations to enhance the visibility and value of nurses.
The meeting provided a valuable platform for nursing associations to exchange ideas and strengthen their commitment to the nursing profession, concluding with a shared vision for future collaboration.
Dr. Magwilang’s participation in these discussions highlights UC-CON’s pivotal role in shaping the future of nursing in the Philippines and beyond, strengthening its position as a leader in nursing education and advocacy for sustainable healthcare practices.
