The National Institutes of Health (NIH), University of the Philippines Manila, welcomed two international students under The Network: Towards Unity for Health (TUFH) Student Network Organization (SNO) Exchange Program on 28 July 2026.

The visiting students were João Lucas de Brito Freitas from Brazil, a medical student and MD-PhD trainee with experience in health education, research, and community engagement, and Rwan Jaffer Zain-alabdeen Alshiekh from Sudan, a fourth-year medical student and SNO International Activities Coordinator with a background in global health, public health, and research.

The visit started with a brief orientation at the NIH Conference Room. The students were introduced to the history, mandate, vision and mission of NIH, as well as its institutes and centers, research programs, study groups, and international partnerships. The orientation also highlighted NIH's role in advancing health research and innovation in the Philippines.

Following the orientation, the students toured the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (NIMBB) Laboratory, where they learned about the Institute's laboratory facilities, research capabilities, and ongoing scientific initiatives. The tour provided an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into NIH's contributions to molecular biology, biotechnology, and health research.

The visit formed part of the SNO Exchange Program organized by the UP Manila Office of International and Local Linkages, which aims to foster intercultural learning, strengthen academic collaboration, and encourage the exchange of knowledge and experiences among future health professionals from different countries.