As part of the internationalisation strategy of Santa Maria Health School (SMHS), students and academic staff took part in two Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) organised by partner institutions under the Erasmus+ Programme during May and June 2026.
From 11 to 15 May, Occupational Therapy students Anita and Margarida, accompanied by Professor Sofia Saraiva, participated in the BIP “In Someone’s Shoes – Disability, Accessibility and Social Inclusion”, hosted by the Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences (Poland). Throughout the five-day programme, participants engaged in practical activities and workshops that simulated the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities, exploring issues related to accessibility, social inclusion, and innovative solutions that support independent living. The experience fostered not only professional knowledge but also empathy and a deeper understanding of inclusive healthcare practice.
From 15 to 19 June, Physiotherapy students Henrique and Rodrigo, accompanied by Professor Alexandre Silva, participated in the BIP “Problem Based Learning with Patient Cases” at FH Joanneum, in Graz (Austria). The programme brought together students from different countries to work collaboratively on patient cases, strengthening clinical reasoning, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and peer learning in an international environment.
These experiences reflect SMHS’s commitment to providing high-quality international learning opportunities that enhance academic, professional, and intercultural competencies among both students and staff.
SMHS encourages all members of its academic community to take part in international initiatives, particularly Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs), which offer an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth through multicultural learning, international networking, and the development of key competencies for future healthcare professionals.
