Online Orientation on Work and Career Opportunities in Germany (October 22 and 29)

Arellano University in coordination with EDI-Staffbuilders International Inc., Philippines and C&C Human Resource Development GMBH, Germany conducted two online orientation sessions for AU BSN alumni and BSN students on work and career opportunities in Germany.  The first event was hosted by Mr. JJ Manuel and Ms. Abegail Cayco and the second one by Mr. JJ Manuel and Ms. Tenny Cayco.

The purpose of the events is to present Germany as a possible career destination for Filipino nurses.  According to Ms. Kristine Brisenio, Managing Consultant of EDI-Staffbuilders International Inc., Germany recently opened its doors to skilled workers specifically to healthcare workers. Cited by World Bank as the global leader in terms of performance on trade logistics, and possibly one of the world’s largest economy with an annual GDP of $3.652 Billion, Germany is one of the countries that offer substantial annual remuneration for nurses. 

Ms. Brisenio added that the life expectancy in Germany is 78.5 years for males and 83.3 for females.  Because of this, Germany is considered to have an aging society, thus the need for healthcare professionals in the coming years.  The shortage of nurses in Germany specifically in the Geriatric sector, presents an opportunity for Filipino nurses to work and build a career in the said country.  Healthcare workers can work in hospitals, specialized institutions, and elderly care facilities.

In Ms. Brisenio’s presentation, she pointed out that the initial hurdle in working in Germany is the language barrier.  However, because of their strategic alliances with C&C Human Resource Development and go4more.school Language Training Center, the group has been successful in converting non-German speaking nurses to B1 language level in 7 to 8 months.  EDI is offering the online language training to qualified applicants for free.  Classes are on-going and interested AU alumni are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

To date, EDI has already sent 9 batches of nurses in Germany.  The most recent batch arrived in Germany earlier this year.  Included in these batches are some AU alumni who joined the program early in its inception.  Photos of these AU alumni where shown during Ms. Brisenio’s presentation who were easily recognized by faculty members of the college of nursing.

The program was also graced by the presence of Mr. Cesar Averia, CEO of EDI-Staffbuilders International Inc., Mr. Christian Hallerbach, CEO of C&C Human Resource Development Mr. Mathias Hallerbach, Business Development Manager of C&C Human Resource Development, and Mr. Ralf Bultschnieder, Managing Director, go4more.school Language Training Center who also delivered their short messages to our students and alumni. 

Both events were very interactive as AU students and alumni asked a number of relevant questions about the program.  AU alumni from as far as Thailand and Saudi attended the online event while graduating BSN students from the main campus and branches also participated in preparation for their careers as future nurses.

Present from Arellano University are Ms. Sonia Dignadice from the Office of Alumni Affairs who did the invocation, Mr. Mario F. Sales, VP for International Programs who delivered the opening remarks, and Ms. Leonora P. Borromeo, Program Chair of the College of Nursing who gave a special message.  Dr. Remedios Fernandez closed the program with an inspiring address to the attendees.