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Linkages News

Nobel University, WVSU CBM lay groundwork for future collaboration

In a significant step toward fostering global academic cooperation, Nobel University representatives visited West Visayas State University (WVSU) on December 17, 2024, to discuss a potential partnership with the College of Business and Management (CBM). This initiative aims to enhance business education and create new opportunities for students and faculty members of both institutions.

 

The delegation from Nobel University, composed of John Kim, Evangeline Quimpo, Rosemarie Diehoto, and Ilsik Byuno, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension of WVSU. Dr. Gabinete emphasized the importance of international collaborations in elevating educational standards and fostering innovation in the field of business.

 

 “This visit marks a significant milestone in WVSU’s efforts to establish a global network of academic partnerships. By working together, we can broaden the horizons of our students and faculty, equipping them with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in a competitive global landscape”, she said.

 

During the meeting, Dr. Maria Corazon M. Samorin, Dean of the WVSU College of Business and Management, along with CBM faculty members, engaged in fruitful discussions with the Nobel University team. The talks revolved around potential areas of collaboration, including faculty and student exchange programs, joint research projects, curriculum development, and entrepreneurial initiatives aimed at addressing real-world challenges.

 

Nobel University, known for its forward-thinking approach, is dedicated to advancing responsible business practices. Its mission focuses on providing pragmatic, entrepreneurial education that is Christian in orientation and global in scope. This vision aligns seamlessly with WVSU’s commitment to producing competent and socially responsible business leaders.

 

This exploratory meeting marks the beginning of what could be a meaningful collaboration between the two institutions. Both WVSU and Nobel University expressed optimism about the potential for joint projects that would mutually benefit their students, faculty, and respective communities.

 

Further discussions and planning sessions are expected to follow in the coming months as both institutions work to finalize the specifics of their partnership.

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Linkages News

Sanitarium Maris Project inspires action for sea turtle nest preservation

On December 16, 2024, the DagYoung Student Ambassadors of West Visayas State University (WVSU), in partnership with the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), Federated Student Council (FSC), and the Development Communicators’ Society, successfully held the first training-seminar for the Sanctuarium Maris: Sea Turtle Nest Protection Project in Barangay Atabayan, Tigbauan, Iloilo.

 

This project, funded by the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, is driven by the student ambassadors, a university-recognized internationalization arm of WVSU International and Local Linkages Office, showcases the power of volunteerism, community collaboration, and sustainable environmental stewardship.

 

Amabela Fiona Le B. Benid, a DagYoung Student Ambassador, opened the seminar by presenting project’s rationale and the importance of Barangay Atabayan as a nesting ground for olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea), a species classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). She noted that the barangay has served as a frequent nesting ground for sea turtles, while also experiencing high rates of stranded and injured turtles.

 

Barangay Captain Hon. Edison T. Camiña followed with a discussion on the “Power of Atabayan Unity for Environmental Projects,” stressing the significance of community collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. Sangguniang Barangay Member Hon. Julius E. Trafalgar underscored the importance of volunteerism, while Hon. Rowena C. Torrechante highlighted the critical roles of women and youth in achieving positive and sustainable change.

 

A key segment of the seminar was led by Forester Jojie P. Gereza from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Guimbal. Gereza provided an in-depth discussion on sea turtle biology, conservation protocols, and proper procedures for responding to stranded or injured turtles.

 

The forum was facilitated by Dr. Ricky Abaleña III, the project’s Strategies and Communication Consultant, and commenced by DagYoung Student Ambassador Johnric G. Vargas, Special Projects Coordinator. Participants engaged in discussions on community education strategies, nest identification, and the role of local government units in incentivizing conservation initiatives.

 

The Sanctuarium Maris project is designed to unfold in phases, starting with community education to enhance awareness about sea turtle conservation. It also aims to empower women and youth to identify, monitor, and protect nesting grounds while fostering a deeper understanding of marine life’s ecological importance. The project further provides opportunities for local government units to support conservation efforts through data-driven incentives.

 

Barangay Atabayan has long been recognized as a critical nesting site for sea turtles, with reports of hatchlings emerging on its shores as recently as 2020. However, the community also faces challenges, such as stranded and injured turtles, a trend reflected in multiple sightings over the years. According to local data, from 2001 to 2011, 109 sea turtles were spotted in the area, many of which were wounded. In 2020 alone, 11 turtles were rescued from fish traps or found stranded along the coast.

 

Given the community’s reliance on fishing as a primary source of livelihood, the project introduces strategies that merge conservation with practical and economic benefits. By involving women and youth, the Sanctuarium Maris initiative seeks to build a network of “first responders” who are trained to protect sea turtles and ensure their safe return to the ocean.

 

The first training-seminar underscores WVSU’s leadership in promoting environmental responsibility and volunteerism. Through this initiative, the university, together with its partner organizations and the Atabayan community, sets a foundation for protecting endangered marine species while inspiring collective action for environmental sustainability.

 

With the combined efforts of WVSU’s student organizations, government leaders, and residents, Sanctuarium Maris sets an inspiring example of what leadership and collaboration can achieve. As sea turtles return to Tigbauan’s shores year after year,

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International News News

WVSU bags ICONS Award for third consecutive year; recognized for IZN efforts

West Visayas State University (WVSU) was honored once again at the prestigious Commission on Higher Education’s Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards on December 16, 2024, held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. This marks the university’s third consecutive year receiving this recognition for its outstanding achievements in internationalization with focus on global higher education.

 

Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of WVSU’s International and Local Linkages Office, was present to accept the award on behalf of the university. She expressed her enthusiasm and pride in the university’s continuous growth and success on the global stage. “This is WVSU’s efforts recognized. We are truly grateful to CHED, CHED IAS and the top management for believing that internationalization at West can go a long way. We are not only creating a name here. With us, we create leaders and empower everyone in the WVSU system,” she said.

 

WVSU’s remarkable achievements were also recognized in 2023 when the university broke into the stringent World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), earning a spot in the Global Top Innovative Universities (Top 201-300). This was a significant milestone, following WVSU’s success in 2022 when it earned three stars in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) rankings for its exceptional academic and research performance.

 

The ICONS Award is a prestigious accolade that acknowledges higher education institutions for their excellence in international rankings, including QS, THE, and WURI, and for their successful efforts in advancing nation-building and sustainable development. WVSU’s consistent recognition underscores its commitment to fostering global engagement, innovative research, and academic excellence.

 

WVSU’s rise in international rankings reflects its sustained efforts to enhance academic reputation, research output, and its commitment to sustainability and development.

 

By continually advancing its position in global rankings, WVSU has demonstrated its role as a leader in education, research, and innovation, strengthening the university’s global reputation and contributing to the Philippines’ international presence in higher education. Through these efforts, WVSU remains at the forefront of shaping the future of higher education, both locally and internationally.

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International News News

WVSU among top universities in 2024 UI Green Metric University Rankings

West Visayas State University (WVSU) has achieved a significant milestone by securing the 513th spot in the 2024 UI GreenMetric (UIGM) World University Rankings (WUR). This remarkable feat positions WVSU at 280th in Asia and 14th in the Philippines, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

 

The university’s consistent rise in global rankings reflects its steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These accomplishments underscore WVSU’s dedication to effective operations and progressive strategies aimed at fostering a sustainable future.

 

The 15th edition of the UIGM WUR featured 1,477 universities from 95 countries, showcasing institutions at the forefront of sustainable practices. The rankings were officially announced on December 12 during the UIGM Conference in São Paulo, Brazil. This globally recognized initiative evaluates universities based on six key indicators: setting and infrastructure, energy and climate change, waste, water, transportation, and education.

 

The UI Green Metric Rankings have become an essential platform for promoting institutional growth, quality assurance, and internationalization. They inspire universities worldwide to prioritize sustainability and continuously improve their environmental impact.

 

At the heart of WVSU’s rise in the rankings is its dedication to advancing sustainable practices across all facets of university life. From integrating sustainability into its curriculum and research to implementing green infrastructure and community outreach programs, WVSU has established itself as a model institution.

 

As WVSU celebrates this achievement, it remains committed to sustaining its momentum and exploring innovative solutions to further champion sustainable development.

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International News Linkages News President Corner

Strengthening Research Culture in Higher Education: WVSU hosts ASU delegation for groundbreaking workshop

On December 12, 2024, West Visayas State University (WVSU) hosted a significant event, fostering a powerful collaboration between the United States and the Philippines. The workshop was part of the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Program, a partnership funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by RTI International and several U.S. universities, including Arizona State University (ASU). This collaboration aimed to enhance research culture and promote skills innovation and lifelong learning in higher education.

 

Dr. Celina C. Gellada, WVSU’s Vice President for Medical & Allied Sciences, welcomed over 50 participants from various higher education institutions in Western Visayas. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to host this transformative event and emphasized the importance of global partnerships in improving the quality of education and research.

 

The workshop featured a lecture from Dr. Gael McDonald, Senior Director for Higher Education Development at ASU’s University Design Institute (UDI). Dr. McDonald, a recognized expert in higher education development, shared valuable insights on how institutions can strengthen their research culture to meet global standards and gain international recognition. She explained that building a research culture that aligns with international rankings requires strategic planning, effective resource allocation, staff development, and community engagement.

 

Dr. McDonald provided attendees with a roadmap for enhancing their research culture. She stressed the importance of establishing clear research priorities, implementing performance metrics to monitor progress, and profiling staff to identify areas for targeted development. Supporting doctoral students and early-career researchers was also highlighted as a crucial step in building a sustainable research culture. Dr. McDonald emphasized that strong partnerships are vital to driving research innovation, urging institutions to invest in research infrastructure and encourage international collaboration to broaden their impact. She concluded with recommendations for fostering research excellence and ensuring long-term success.

 

The event was part of ASU’s broader efforts under the UPSKILL Program, which includes the Transformation Accelerator. As part of this initiative, WVSU has been selected to receive direct technical support to enhance its research capabilities and institutional development. The collaboration with ASU is aimed at providing practical guidance and expertise to strengthen WVSU’s research capacity, ensuring it remains competitive and capable of achieving global recognition.

 

In addition to Dr. McDonald’s lecture, the event included contributions from other key ASU representatives, including Mr. Carlo Fernando, Senior Manager for Higher Education Design at UDI, and Ms. Dawn Straw, Executive Director of Global Services at UDI. Dr. Mabeth Buenviaje and Ms. Ayhen Llada, also played pivotal roles in organizing the workshop, which provided a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices among local institutions.

 

The workshop, which brought together academic leaders and researchers, was a crucial step in aligning local universities with global standards of excellence in research. It also served as an opportunity for WVSU and other Philippine institutions to explore the UPSKILL Program’s resources and collaborate with ASU’s University Design Institute to improve their research outputs and overall educational quality.

 

WVSU’s involvement in this initiative is a testament to its commitment to enhancing research culture and contributing to the advancement of higher education in the Philippines. Through this collaboration with ASU, WVSU is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of higher education in the region, advancing research, and supporting lifelong learning.

 

As the event concluded, the participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable strategies for improving research at their institutions. The successful collaboration between ASU and WVSU demonstrates the power of international partnerships in fostering innovation and excellence in education.

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International News Linkages News President Corner

WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz in France for High-Level Science and Technology Summit

Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University, joined an esteemed delegation of Philippine representatives in France for the 2nd Philippines-France Joint Committee Meeting (JCM-2) on Science and Technology. The event, which runs from December 9 to 12, 2024, is a significant platform for fostering science and technology cooperation between the Philippines and France.

 

The JCM-2, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and his French counterpart, served as a platform to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and France in the fields of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). Discussions focused on joint initiatives such as the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, alongside opportunities for future collaborations.

 

One of the major topics of discussion at JCM-2 is the update on the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, which promote academic and professional exchanges between the Philippines and France. Dr. Villaruz, as part of the Philippine delegation, underscores the significance of these programs, noting that they open doors for Filipino students and researchers to engage in world-class learning and research experiences.

The event also highlighted the critical role of universities like WVSU in fostering international cooperation. Dr. Villaruz, alongside other university representatives, engaged with French institutions to build academic networks and enhance research exchanges, particularly in health, environmental sciences, and emerging technologies. This collaborative spirit aims to enhance research capacity-building, increase scientific data sharing, and facilitate personnel exchange.

 

As the Philippine delegation continues its discussions with French research agencies, there is optimism for the establishment of a framework agreement that will advance joint projects and strengthen bilateral relations in STI.

 

Dr. Villaruz’s participation reflects West Visayas State University’s dedication to playing an active role in global scientific advancements. By fostering international partnerships, WVSU continues to uphold its mission of addressing societal challenges through innovation, research, and collaboration.

 

This milestone event reaffirms the commitment of both nations to advance science for the betterment of society, with Dr. Villaruz and WVSU at the forefront of this collaborative journey. Through these efforts, WVSU continues to position itself as a key player in the global academic and research community

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News

Four WVSU graduates top November 2024 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination

Four graduates from the West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Nursing (CON) ranked among the top 10 in the November 2024 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE).

 

The CON Batch 2024, known as Batch Zephyr, showcased exceptional performance, led by Ma. Irish Silvestre, who secured Rank 8 with a score of 91%. She was followed by Robert Matthew Opong and Karen Joy Oscares, tied at Rank 9 with 90.80%, and Richard Olano, Jr., who claimed Rank 10 with 90.60%.

 

As first-time takers, Batch Zephyr achieved an impressive 100% overall passing rate, with all 108 examinees successfully passing the board exam.

 

WVSU once again affirmed its status as a leading nursing school, ranking first nationwide. This achievement marks the university’s fifth consecutive year as a top-performing institution in the PNLE.

 

The second batch of the November PNLE was conducted on November 9 and 10 at various testing centers across the country. Results, released by the Professional Regulation Commission on November 28, showed a national passing rate of 84.99%, with 29,349 passers out of 34,534 takers.

 

Congratulations to the newly licensed Taga-West RNs! May you continue to embody excellence, compassion, and integrity as you serve in the fields of community and public healthcare. Basta Taga-West, The Best!

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News

WVSU Devcom research work shines at ADCEP 2024

West Visayas State University has completed its three-day performance review for fiscal year 2024, held at the university’s board room on Dec. 4.

 

The review, facilitated by the University Planning and Development Office, is an annual evaluation where university units present their accomplishments, assess progress, and identify areas for improvement. The event aims to measure how the university’s activities align with its mission and goals.

 

This year’s review carried the theme “Sustaining the Vision Through Synergy” and included presentations from vice presidents, deans, campus administrators, and other university officials. The presentations highlighted strengths, challenges, and opportunities across the university.

 

The panel of evaluators included Shim Lester de Pio, president of the WVSU Faculty Association and member of the university board of regents; Kristine E. Sabla-on, chief human resource specialist of the Civil Service Commission’s regional office; Paulo Cabanero, Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education’s regional office, and Francis John Palabrica, a senior economic development specialist at the National Economic and Development Authority regional office.

 

The performance review is part of the university’s commitment to accountability and strategic planning. It provides a platform to reflect on accomplishments, address gaps, and refine strategies for sustained growth and development.

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News

WVSU concludes Performance Review for FY 2024

West Visayas State University has completed its three-day performance review for fiscal year 2024, held at the university’s board room on Dec. 4.

 

The review, facilitated by the University Planning and Development Office, is an annual evaluation where university units present their accomplishments, assess progress, and identify areas for improvement. The event aims to measure how the university’s activities align with its mission and goals.

 

This year’s review carried the theme “Sustaining the Vision Through Synergy” and included presentations from vice presidents, deans, campus administrators, and other university officials. The presentations highlighted strengths, challenges, and opportunities across the university.

 

The panel of evaluators included Shim Lester de Pio, president of the WVSU Faculty Association and member of the university board of regents; Kristine E. Sabla-on, chief human resource specialist of the Civil Service Commission’s regional office; Paulo Cabanero, Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education’s regional office, and Francis John Palabrica, a senior economic development specialist at the National Economic and Development Authority regional office.

 

The performance review is part of the university’s commitment to accountability and strategic planning. It provides a platform to reflect on accomplishments, address gaps, and refine strategies for sustained growth and development.

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International News Linkages News

FROM WVSU TO CANADA: Two CICT students to study at Mohawk College under SEED program

West Visayas State University (WVSU) proudly celebrates a significant milestone as two of its College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT) students, Von Ashley P. Chichirita and Reeman L. Singh, have been awarded the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) grant.

 

This marks the second consecutive year that WVSU students have been selected to study at Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, showcasing the university’s commitment to fostering global opportunities for its students.

 

Von Ashley, who will specialize in Computer Engineering Technology – Mechatronic Systems, and Reeman, will focus on Computer Systems Technology – Software Development, have earned their spots in the SEED program through their academic excellence and determination. Both students will study at Mohawk College’s Fennell Campus, the main campus known for fostering innovation and global collaboration.

 

The scholarship program will run from January 2 to April 30, 2025, offering the students a chance to immerse themselves in a world-class educational environment.

 

Through the SEED program, Von Ashley and Reeman will have the opportunity to enhance their academic and technical expertise while contributing to global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their studies at Mohawk College will prepare them to tackle real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, and bring positive change to their communities upon their return.

 

This opportunity marks a significant achievement for both students and highlights WVSU’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and global citizenship. Von Ashley and Reeman’s participation in the SEED program is expected to broaden their horizons, enhance their technical expertise, and enable them to contribute meaningfully to their fields and communities.

 

The WVSU community celebrates this outstanding achievement, which not only showcases the students’ potential but also reinforces the university’s standing as a center for academic and professional excellence.