Biliran Province State University continues to expand its international footprint as its president, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., was invited to the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2024 in Manchester, United Kingdom. 

The summit, titled "Making a Difference: The Purpose of Universities in a Rapidly Changing World," was held from October 6 to 10, 2024, at the University of Manchester, participated by various leaders from international higher education, industry, and policymaking to discuss on how universities can serve as catalysts for positive change in local, national, and global communities.

Dr. Cañezo’s attendance at the summit was a notable achievement for BiPSU, as the university sought to enhance its global partnerships and acknowledged its recent success in the THE Impact Rankings, released in June this year where among the 2,152 universities evaluated from 125 countries, BiPSU earned a place in the 1501+ tier, indicating a considerable leap in its international recognition.

BiPSU’s performance in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

BiPSU has recently received recognition in the THE Impact Rankings, showing its commitment to addressing global challenges through its performance in four (4) key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The university ranked 801-1000 for SDG 1 – No Poverty and SDG 4 – Quality Education, ranked 601-800 in SDG 5 – Gender Equality and 1501+ for SDG 17 – Partnership for the Goals. 

Dr. Cañezo said earlier that BiPSU’s appearance in the THE ranking highlights the administration’s commitment to bringing the university to the international consciousness.

“This is just the start,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We are aiming to improve our standing in the next few years.”

Strategic internationalization and knowledge partnerships

The said summit also aligned with BiPSU’s internationalization goals, as outlined in the Board Resolution No. 66, series of 2024, noting that the university has been actively working to establish a network of international higher education institutions (HEIs) and industries, strengthening collaborations that enhance research and academic exchange.

In addition, Dr. Cañezo hoped to build partnerships with globally recognized institutions, aiming to strengthen faculty and student mobility programs and create joint research initiatives centered on sustainable development, which aligns with BiPSU’s strategic focus on knowledge transfer partnerships (KTPs). 

A key highlight of Dr. Cañezo’s trip was his meeting with Ritin Malhotra, general manager and director for Asia of Times Higher Education. During their discussion, both explored strategies to strengthen BiPSU’s collaboration with THE, particularly in terms of improving the university’s performance in global rankings and participating in initiatives that streghten collaboration among Asian universities.

"Our discussions with THE leadership were pivotal in exploring ways to strengthen our university’s global standing. This achievement in the impact rankings motivates us to continue our efforts in internationalization and sustainable research," Dr. Cañezo shared in a virtual interview.

Strengthening BiPSU’s role in global academic innovation

At the summit, key themes such as civic responsibility, innovation for the future, and collaboration within and between institutions were explored. “With the university already making efforts in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, we are positioning BiPSU as a key player in contributing to solutions for global challenges, particularly those tied to the SDGs,” he stated.

"This summit has reaffirmed our belief that BiPSU can make a meaningful impact on the global stage. We are committed to driving progress through innovation, research, and international partnerships," Dr. Caňezo added.

BiPSU’s participation in the THE World Academic Summit 2024 through President Caňezo represents a key achievement in BiPSU’s efforts to become a globally recognized institution.

Moreover, the university president also emphasized his commitment to delivering high-quality education, research, and outreach programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that both students and faculty are equipped to succeed in a more connected world.

This summit also marks Dr. Caňezo’s first international engagement of the year which underscores BiPSU’s mission to build global collaborations, enhance educational opportunities, and tackle some of the world's most pressing issues.

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