Ninth-semester students from the Speech-Language Pathology program at the María Cano University Foundation, Popayán campus, are actively participating in the Neonatology, Gynecology, and Human Milk Bank services at the San José University Hospital (HUSJ), as part of their clinical practicum and within the framework of the IAMII strategy (Friends of Women and Children Initiative).

This strategy promotes humanized, comprehensive, and family-centered care focused on mothers, newborns, and their families. In this context, the partnership between María Cano and HUSJ strengthens both the clinical training of students and the quality of maternal and child healthcare.

Through coordination of clinical practicums and in collaboration with the hospital’s healthcare teams, actions have been implemented to highlight the role of speech-language pathologists in the care of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and newborns. These actions include breastfeeding counseling, neonatal orofacial stimulation, and training for mothers on baby care and feeding—all based on evidence and with respect for cultural and family diversity.

«The participation of our students in these hospital services marks a milestone in their education while significantly contributing to improved maternal and child health outcomes.»

This joint effort demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to the training of ethical, competent professionals who are engaged with the needs of their communities, as well as to the strengthening of high-quality healthcare processes for the benefit of the people of Cauca.