Baguio Central University’s (BCU) Marketing Officer, Mr. Karl Matthieu Rillera and Internationalization Representative, Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, brought vibrant energy and key insights from the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) Global Conference 2024 back home, presenting their takeaways at the Cordillera Association of International Relations Officers (CAIRO) gathering on October 8, 2024, at the University of Baguio’s Centennial Hall. The presentation, aptly titled “From Seoul to UB: Lessons Learned from WGC2024 with CAIRO Participants,” illuminated innovative strategies and takeaways from the conference, emphasizing the crucial role of international collaboration and the immense potential for higher education institutions (HEIs) to serve as catalysts for global engagement.

Talk about making waves across the seas! Rillera and Kupang shared how the inspiring Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega flew in from Jeju Island, proving that distance is no barrier to Filipino pride and support! She came to speak to the Filipino participants about the exciting collaborations between the Philippines and Korea, inspiring everyone to strengthen our ties and work together.

BCU’s Ma’am Michaela Caryl B. Rillera and Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang shared radiant smiles, striking a pose for posterity before the session kicked off. Sir Karl & Kupang took a moment to express gratitude to Ma’am Michaela for her support, proving that behind every great presentation is a fantastic team ready to shine!

Rillera and Kupang shared that the WURI Global Conference 2024 offered invaluable opportunities for participants to forge international friendships and deepen their commitment to educational innovation. Engaging with university leaders from diverse backgrounds, attendees gained insights into innovative practices and sustainable development initiatives. Memorable encounters with visionary figures
like Dr. Dong-sung Cho, the founder of WURI, Dr. Jin-Suk Kim, the conference chair, aSSIST University President, SDG School of Management President, among others, inspired discussions and actions on global collaboration. Participants were excited to explore partnerships that would enhance educational impact, emphasizing the significance of building global collaborations, fostering innovative solutions, and documenting their experiences to pave the way forward.

Dr. Karen Cue, Director of International and Local Linkages at Mountain Province State University, shared insights on how CAIRO can draw inspiration from other organizations to strengthen its own initiatives and foster resilience.

Adding further richness to the dialogue, Ms. Jenelyn Magpatoc, Dean of UB’s School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM), shared her own valuable insights, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas. Dr. Steve Solano of King’s College also provided his perspectives, widening the scope of the discussions and highlighting the importance of drawing from diverse experiences to fortify the region’s internationalization efforts.

At CAIRO gatherings, it’s also about making new connections and rekindling old friendships! Seated: Mae Ramos Policarpio and Russel Mae Trinidad, BSBT; Corazon Ocden; CCDC, and Genevieve B. Kupang and Karl Matthieu Rillera, BCU. Standing tall: Dr. Karen B. Cue, MPSPU and Maylene R.
Pambalan, Divine Word College, Bangued—where collaboration is in style.

The gathering was not just about reflection but also action. The session mapped out a forward-thinking strategy for the CHED-CAR-led FLAIR-UPLIFT 2024 Masterclass, a bold new initiative aimed at propelling Cordilleran HEIs to the global stage. FLAIR stands for Filipino Leaders in Advancing International Reputation, while UPLIFT signifies Upscaling Programs and Projects, Leveraging Internationalization, and Futures Thinking. This masterclass promises to be a vibrant forum for collaboration, where institutions can forge partnerships and share best practices, positioning themselves to soar even higher in the global rankings. With 17 HEIs eagerly stepping up to this challenge, participants left inspired to sustain their upward momentum.

CAIRO President Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro extended a heartfelt salutation to the 17 HEI participants—where knowledge meets a friendly gesture and a chance for collaboration.

In her welcoming remarks, Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro, the CAIRO president and UB’s Director of Linkages, captured the spirit of the event perfectly. “Collaboration is the name of the game!” she declared, her smile radiating optimism. “Internationalization is for everyone, and CAIRO’s mission is to ensure no institution gets left behind.” Her warm, inclusive tone set the stage for a day of dynamic exchange, where
participants—especially those new to the international scene—were encouraged to unlock new horizons of opportunity. It was a reminder that, regardless of size or resources, every institution has a place at the table in global education.

Dr. Godfrey Mendoza and Ms. Quennie Lelina Rumbaoa led the CAIRO Planning Session—ready to turn ideas into action for higher education innovation.

Words of encouragement resonated particularly for smaller institutions, still finding their footing in the highly competitive realm of internationalization and university rankings such as WURI and Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. With humor and humility, Dr. Genevieve Kupang remarked, “BCU is still a baby in the world of global engagement,” but her tone was far from timid. She emphasized that BCU’s stakeholders are eager learners, ready to rise to new heights. With steadfast support from CHED-CAR and drawing inspiration from more seasoned universities with greater resources, BCU has wholeheartedly embraced this challenge.

Throughout the event, a strong sense of camaraderie prevailed, with larger institutions expressing their commitment to guide and support those just beginning their international journey. The message was loud and clear: growth is a collective effort, and together, they would navigate the exciting path forward, unlocking a bold and transformative future for higher education in the region.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Demetrio Anduyan Jr., Dr. Godfrey Mendoza, and Ms. Quennie Lelina Rumbaoa, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) spearheaded this CAIRO Echoing and Planning Session, in close collaboration with CAIRO’s officers and board, led by its president, Dr. Melanie Rulla-Saro. Dr. Godfrey Mendoza, CHED Education Supervisor II and Deputy Focal Person for Internationalization (IZN), led the discussions with precision, ensuring that the region’s HEIs are not only competitive globally but also aligned with evolving demands in international engagement and collaboration. His message resonated with all: to be globally relevant, you need to stay agile and responsive to the opportunities that internationalization brings.

Capturing smiles and camaraderie! CHED-CAR, CAIRO leaders, and participants gathered for a photo-op after indulging in a hearty meal courtesy of the University of Baguio, celebrating not just good food but also the bonds of friendship.

The CAIRO participants expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the officers of CAIRO and CHED-CAR for the meaningful and fruitful session. Everyone is eagerly looking forward to the upcoming Flair-Uplift Masterclass, scheduled to take place before the end of 2024.

Sir Karl Matthieu Rillera and Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang receive their Certificate of Appreciation from CHED-CAR’s Dr. Godfrey Mendoza and CAIRO President Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro.

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