A THREE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN TOWARD NURSING EDUCATION RECOVERY

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted nursing education, necessitating rapid adaptation to remote and hybrid modalities. This study examined recovery efforts within the Philippine nursing education system, emphasizing collaborative initiatives between colleges of nursing and hospital-based practice. A convergent parallel mixed methods design was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with nursing administrators from Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Quantitative findings revealed that active and collaborative learning practices, advanced training programs, and enriched educational experiences were pivotal in bridging theoretical and practical knowledge. Collaborative strategies such as shared research projects, cross-training, and joint teaching initiatives prepared students for complex healthcare environments. Qualitative themes provided deeper insights into recovery dynamics, highlighting the significance of collaboration, innovative recovery strategies, and empowerment. Key initiatives included regular meetings, reorientation programs, health education campaigns, and advanced simulations. Participants also identified challenges such as hybrid learning adaptation, resource limitations, and compliance with evolving safety protocols. The integration of findings demonstrated the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation in nursing education. This study underscored the necessity of sustained partnerships, resource optimization, and continuous evaluation to build a resilient and adaptive educational framework. Through addressing immediate gaps and leveraging strengths, the study offered actionable insights to advance nursing education and ensure preparedness for future crises. The findings serve as a foundation for developing strategic plans to enhance nursing education systems, ultimately strengthening the global healthcare workforce.