The conference was co-hosted by Silliman University (SI), Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD), and Siquijor State College (SSC), showcasing the Philippines’ commitment to global academic collaboration.

The Opening Ceremonies at Luce Auditorium at SI set a dynamic tone for the event, beginning with welcome remarks from HLU President-Elect and NORSU President Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi, who thanked the collaborating institutions and the delegates. 

Esteemed Filipino speakers then took the stage, including Dr. Carl E. Balita, Founder, President, and CEO of the Dr. Carl Balita Review Center (CBRC), who presented the disruptions in the education sector. His insights resonated with attendees, sparking discussions on adaptive strategies for future-ready learning.

Further enriching the dialogue, Dr. Dina S. Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines (UP), delivered a plenary talk on the Philippine Qualifications Reference Framework (PQRF), underscoring its role in aligning the Philippine education system with global standards. 

Meanwhile, Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis also delivered a special message, commending the organizers and participants for their commitment to advancing higher education. Her address reinforced the Philippine government’s support for initiatives that elevate the country’s global academic standing.

Expressing his belief in the transformative power of IZN, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) President Dr. Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson said he is inspired by the new CHEd Chairperson’s expanded IZN initiatives. “My administration actively pursues international rankings like WURI, as this is an excellent opportunity to connect with global leaders, engage with sustainability and innovation advocates, learn their best practices, and share our humble experiences over the years,” Dr. Salunson conveyed.

𝐓𝐀𝐔 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

Among the participating HEIs was TAU, which sent a four-member delegation led by Dr. Marianne P. Villaruel, Director of External Linkages and International Affairs (ELIA). 

During one of the breakout sessions, Dr. Villaruel had a chance to present TAU’s WURI 2024 entry entitled Project Accelerate, which ranked 72nd in Entrepreneurial Spirit. Through her lecture, she provided a platform for her fellow delegates to exchange ideas on social entrepreneurship, partnerships, and educational reforms, aligning with HLU and TAU’s mission to foster cross-border synergy in higher education.

The conference not only marked a crossroads for the Philippines and TAU but also bolstered ties with international academic networks. By fostering collaboration on contemporary educational and operational issues, the event embodied its theme to continue to inspire institutions like TAU and its partners to push boundaries and ignite progress.

#SmartTAU #GreenandGlobal #HLU #WURI #Dumaguete #NegrosOriental #SDG4 #SDG17

Article and Photos | Information Unit