Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso, Senior Vice President for Programs Development and Quality Assurance, was invited by the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) as a Resource Speaker during the WURI Orientation: Application, Data Preparation, and Submission Process, held on December 3, 2024, via Zoom.
ESSU organized the online orientation in preparation for their WURI ranking application. The World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) is a ranking system that assesses higher education institutions’ real contributions to industry and society, highlighting innovative education, research, and engagement.
In the first part of her presentation, Dr. Cardoso delved into the intricacies of the WURI ranking system, highlighting the sixteen (16) categories of WURI 2025 that ESSU should focus on. She also emphasized the three criteria used to evaluate programs submitted for ranking: innovativeness, implementability, and impact.
Drawing from SSU's successful experience in securing the top spot in the WURI ranking for two consecutive years, Dr. Cardoso shared valuable insights and their best practices. She highlighted the pivotal role of innovative projects like the Smart EduBox (2022) and GEOMap Samar (2023) in bringing SSU to the forefront of higher education innovation.
Dr. Cardoso emphasized the significance of participating in world rankings, emphasizing that it goes beyond institutional recognition. She stressed that it reflects a commitment to excellence, driving institutions to elevate the quality of their education, research, and innovation. She concluded her presentation by saying, “When we (HEIs/SUCs) innovate, we pave the way for meaningful progress, we empower communities, and we leave an enduring legacy”.
The vice presidents, campus administrators, and deans of ESSU were present during the online orientation, including Dr. Rhodora C. Mendoza, VP for Administrative Services; Dr. Aris A. Lapada, VP for Academic Affairs; Dr. Jocelyn S. Castro, VP for External Affairs & Quality Assurance; and Dr. Lito D. Lacaba, VP for Research and Extension Services, among others.