Baguio City, Philippines — March 6, 2026 — The College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CONAHS) of the University of the Cordilleras actively participated in the university-wide workshop titled “Revisiting and Strengthening the University Research Agenda,” spearheaded by the Research Services Office.
Representing the college were Mr. Laudemar Luis, Dr. Sheila Maria Batoon, and Mr. Gilbert Bernardino, who collaborated with faculty delegates from various academic units in refining and aligning the university’s research priorities. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Thelma Palaoag, Vice President for Research Innovation and Institutional Planning, together with Dr. Nathaniel Vincent Lubrica, Executive Director of the Research Services Office, fostering a dynamic environment for interdisciplinary dialogue and strategic planning.
A key highlight of the activity was the presentation of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences’ research thrusts for the coming years. The CONAHS team presented a consolidated set of priority areas developed through prior collaborative planning and internal consultations. These research directions reflect a balance of continuity and innovation, ensuring responsiveness to both emerging healthcare needs and evolving academic standards.
Among the priority areas identified were advancements in nursing education and clinical practice, particularly through the integration of simulation-based learning to enhance students’ clinical competencies in safe and controlled environments. The college also continues to strengthen its commitment to community and public health by supporting undergraduate research focused on indigenous and rural populations, promoting culturally sensitive and inclusive healthcare practices.
The presentation further highlighted ongoing research initiatives in mental health and maternal wellness, alongside critical areas such as disaster preparedness and climate resilience, which are highly relevant within the Philippine context. In addition, improving patient outcomes through evidence-based nursing practice remains a central focus of the college’s research agenda.
Looking forward, CONAHS is expanding its research direction toward digital health and informatics, particularly in response to the increasing utilization of electronic health records in healthcare settings. This development opens opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, especially with programs in computer science and information technology, further strengthening the college’s research capacity.
Through its active engagement in the workshop, UC CONAHS reaffirms its commitment to advancing research that is socially responsive, academically grounded, and aligned with both institutional goals and global development priorities.
SDG Alignment
| SDG | SDG Indicator | Description | Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDG 3 | 3.4.1, 3.1.1, 3.8.1 | Good Health and Well-being | Supports research on mental health, maternal wellness, and improved patient outcomes |
| SDG 4 | 4.3.1, 4.7.1 | Quality Education | Enhances nursing education through simulation-based learning |
| SDG 17 | 17.17.1 | Partnerships for the Goals | Strengthens interdisciplinary and institutional collaboration |
