The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) recently concluded its “Orientation and Workshop on the University’s International Ranking,” held from August 13-14 at Park Inn by Radisson in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
The pioneering initiative aims to position ISUFST in international rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE).
Participants from the university’s five campuses engaged in comprehensive discussions led by Dr. Engelbert Pasag, Vice President for Internationalization at Panpacific University.
The workshop focused on the metrics used by QS World University Rankings, THE, and the World University Ranking for Innovation (WURI), equipping attendees with tools to enhance ISUFST’s global standing.
Dr. Pasag, drawing from his expertise in internationalization, provided valuable insights and strategies to improve ISUFST’s approach to global rankings.
He emphasized that international metrics serve as benchmarks to measure performance against leading global institutions and stressed the importance of aligning university programs with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga and Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor expressed their strong support for ISUFST’s internationalization efforts.
“This workshop is a critical step in our journey towards global excellence. Our goal is to elevate ISUFST’s standing in international rankings, and with our collective efforts, we will achieve this milestone,” Dr. Belga said.
Dr. Pasag highlighted the broader significance of global rankings, noting that they challenge institutions to innovate and raise standards continuously.
He encouraged the ISUFST community to “eat, breathe, and live the UN SDGs and internationalization,” stressing that this commitment will shape the university’s future path.
On the event’s second day, University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. commended the faculty and administrators for their dedication to internationalization.
“Our journey toward becoming a leading research university in Southeast Asia by 2030 is strongly tied to our internationalization efforts,” Dr. Siason said.
Dr. Siason concluded by stating, “Our pursuit of global recognition is about building a legacy of excellence that transcends borders, inspiring generations to think globally.”
He urged resilience and unity as ISUFST continues its journey toward becoming a beacon of academic excellence and societal impact in the Philippines and beyond. (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Julius Ruger Hermano and Lagon/PAMMCO)
