By Leo G. Almonte
After months of painstaking preparations for a virtual conference, WVSU’s hard work finally paid off with the successful hosting of the World Research and Innovation Festival (WRIF) that ensued from October 17 to 19, 2022.
Responding to the call-to-arms of University President Dr. Joselito Villaruz to heighten efforts in establishing WVSU as a research university, Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President of Research, Extension & Training, led the charge in organizing the event as WRIF Lead Convenor.
Through the concentric effort of the different committees for keynote and plenary speakers, abstracts, invitations, IT infrastructure, technical support, marketing, and staffing, WRIF pushed through despite a short timetable and other operational issues.
Keynote and plenary speakers who are experts in the fields of Education and Social Sciences; Pure and Applied Sciences; Medical, Health, and Allied Sciences; and Business, Hospitality, and Management, inspired brought new knowledge and inspiration to the participants.
The virtual conference drew 425 participants (283 attendees and 142 presenters) from North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. WRIF garnered positive assessments from the participants, although there were a few technical glitches during the conference.
Overall, WVSU’s WRIF attained its goal “to connect the global community through research,” a feat that the institution can be proud of and proved their commitment to research and innovation.