Prof. Dr. Işıl Pamukçu Conducts Erasmus+ Academic Mobility and Institutional Visits in Finland

Our university's Head of Gerontology Department, Prof. Dr. Işıl Pamukçu visited Novia University of Applied Sciences in Turku, Finland, from February 23 to 27, 2026, as part of the Erasmus+ Academic Mobility Program. During the visit, she engaged in a comprehensive series of academic, clinical, and educational activities.

Academic Collaborations and Institutional Engagement
The program commenced with a meeting with Jaana-Sofia Tengström, Head of the Public Health Department at Novia University, where they exchanged insights on public health practices in both Finland and Türkiye. This was followed by a technical visit to the Turku University City Hospital, accompanied by faculty member Josephine Aberg. This visit provided an on-site look at hospital operations and the clinical training frameworks for nursing students.

In the field of social work, Prof. Dr. Pamukçu visited the Monitori Social Work Unit with Johanna Wikgren-Roelofs to examine support mechanisms for the elderly. Furthermore, a strategic meeting was held with the faculty of the Social Work Department, where a consensus was reached regarding future student and staff mobility, joint research initiatives, and long-term institutional partnerships.

International Promotion and Educational Outreach
To enhance our university’s international visibility, Prof. Dr. Pamukçu met with Isabelle Bonnet from the International Relations Unit to discuss Novia’s global outreach strategies. In a notable outreach effort, she also conducted an online session with a prospective master’s student interested in applying to our university, providing a detailed introduction to our academic programs. Additionally, discussions with Minna Syrjalainen-Lindberg from the Nursing Department focused on strengthening the academic ties between the two institutions.

Simulation Technologies and Expert Presentations
As part of an exploration of educational technologies, faculty member Michaela Jalava introduced the university’s simulation laboratory, sharing insights into digital and practical training methodologies.

Following the laboratory tour, Prof. Dr. Pamukçu delivered a series of expert presentations to Finnish nursing students, focusing on:

"Care Services for Older Adults with Dementia in Türkiye"
"Elder Abuse and Neglect in Türkiye"
"Geriatric Nursing in Türkiye: Education, Roles, and Care Pathways"

The program concluded with an observation of intramuscular (IM) injection laboratory training, conducted by Daniel Neonen and Josephine Aberg, allowing for a firsthand look at the students' clinical skill acquisition.

This successful visit represents a significant step forward in our university’s mission to expand its international academic network and integrate global best practices in nursing and social work into our institutional framework.