The University of Baguio is always seeking out new opportunities to learn from its fellow higher education institutions (HEIs) and to adopt practices and programs that will aid in its journey to become a globally competitive educational center. In support of this goal, UB participated in the UPLIFT Masterclass organized by the Commission on Higher Education – Cordillera Administrative Region (CHED-CAR) in collaboration with the Cordillera Association of International Relations Officers (CAIRO).
Standing for Upscaling Programs and Projects, Leveraging Internationalization and Futures Thinking, the event tackled a wide range of topics related to strengthening the international presence and sustainable development, both of which can aid in pursuing global recognition from international ranking bodies such as the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, and the QS Star Ratings System. Securing a position on these coveted ranking lists bolsters the university’s international presence and ensures that the university is able to provide world-class academic support to its students, producing globally competitive graduates who can keep up with the demands of an increasingly interconnected world.
The program is an expansion of the Filipino Leaders in Advancing |International Reputation or FLAIR Masterclass Series, which hones in on helping HEIs to build a stronger global presence through international rankings.
Among the panel of esteemed speakers was the university’s very own Linkages Office Director Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro, whose session revolved around the topic of “Enhancing Students Success: Innovative Approaches to Support and Engagement Strategies for Diverse Student Population at UB”. Her talk highlighted UB’s student support programs, including the BRIDGE (Broadening Reach through International Development and Global Experience) program and the various international exchange, training, and cultural immersion programs in place at the university.
From exploring the new categories of the incoming WURI 2025 to delving into strategies for establishing Transnational Higher Education (TNHE) Programs, the event was an enlightening overview of the different techniques and strategies that could help universities to achieve a high standard of innovation and global reach.
UB values opportunities to connect with its fellow HEIs. It facilitates the exchange of ideas and leads to a more robust academic community not just in the Cordillera Region, but throughout the rest of the Philippines and across the world. Programs such as the UPLIFT Masterclass is integral for fostering a collaborative spirit within the academic sphere, ensuring that every university has the resources and the knowledge necessary to pursue internationalization and sustainability.
