Strengthening World-Class Status: Mindanao State University’s Continuous Journey Towards Excellence

On September 3, 2024, Mindanao State University held a pivotal workshop designed to enhance its standing on the global stage, hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension, in collaboration with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Development, the Mamitua Saber Research Center, and the University Extension Services Center.

The workshop was structured to address critical facets of achieving and sustaining world-class status. It commenced with a thought-provoking lecture on international benchmarks for world-class universities. The session was led by Dr. Gaudencio Petalcorin, PhD the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of MSU-IIT. Dr. Petalcorin provided an overview of the metrics and criteria used to evaluate universities on the global stage. He noted that while the MSU Main Campus has already taken strides towards globalization, it is important that data should be aligned with these international metrics and criteria.

Following the lecture, the workshop delved into a detailed assessment of the Campus’s initiatives concerning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This segment was crucial as it aligned the campus’s efforts with internationally recognized benchmarks for sustainability and social impact. The assessment revealed both strengths and opportunities for growth. It highlighted the university’s commendable efforts in certain areas while also pointing out gaps that need addressing to ensure a more robust alignment with SDGs. This reflective analysis is intended to guide future actions and foster a more integrated approach to sustainability across the institution.

The workshop concluded with a forward-looking recommendation to create a dedicated task force. This task force will be charged with overseeing that MSU achieve high rankings in international university assessments and enhancing the University’s global profile. Dr. Glen A. Lorenzo, PhD, Vice President for Research and Extension of the MSU System was offered to lead the task force and he took the challenge in a stride.

The workshop underscored the university’s commitment to achieving and sustaining a world-class status. By aligning its initiatives with international benchmarks and establishing a focused task force, Mindanao State University is poised to make significant strides in global university rankings, driving forward with renewed vigor and a clear, strategic path to success.