In cooperation with CHEDRO MIMAROPA, the Romblon State University graciously conducted the session on QS Asia Ranking entitled, “Navigating QS Asia Ranking: Bridging the Current Practices of MIMAROPA HEIs with Global Standards.” This serves as an avenue for MIMAROPA HEIs to learn how they can cope with global standards and be recognized globally, ultimately improving their academic quality and more attuning to the international standard of education.
The session featured Mr. Hector Martin, Director of OIDQA at Saint Louis University in Baguio City, who is a recognized specialist in higher education quality assurance and global rankings. Mr. Martin shared valuable perceptions and strategies, highlighting the need for institutions to adapt to the metrics of the QS Asia Rankings. His presentation provided practical steps that HEIs can implement to boost their academic reputation, increase research output, and promote international collaboration. He also emphasized the significance of data presence and management.
Highlights of the event:
1. Understanding QS Asia Rankings: Participants learned about the key criteria used by QS Asia Rankings, including academic and employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, and citations per faculty. Clarification on the criteria and methodologies of Asia and World Rankings were also discussed. This knowledge is essential for institutions looking to assess and enhance their global standing.
2. Best practices: Mr. Martin outlined practical strategies for HEIs, such as improving research and publications, building partnerships, effective data collection and management, and creating a supportive and collaborative academic atmosphere. In addition, as part of previous application experiences, the practices for improvement as applicant-HEIs such as making the data and information public for validation had been emphasized.
3. Engagement: The session fostered active participation, allowing attendees and representatives to pose questions and discuss the specific challenges their institutions face. Participating HEIs raised their concerns on research and publications considering it is one of the challenging QS criteria. This interactive approach ensured that the insights shared were both relevant and applicable.
This event marked a monumental step in supporting universities and colleges in MIMAROPA as they strive to elevate their presence in the global higher education arena. By embracing best practices and aligning their operations with international standards, these institutions cannot only enhance their academic reputation but also draw in more students, faculty, and research opportunities from both local and international communities. Additionally, it will create more avenues in delivering high-quality education and global competencies provided by MIMAROPA HEIs.
The RSU’s initiative to host this session demonstrates a dedication to ongoing growth and academic excellence in the region. This event emphasized the collaborations not only within MIMAROPA HEIs but also with other HEIs in various Regions. The joint efforts of the institutions to align with international competencies and standards highlight a collective commitment in enhancing the quality of education while ensuring inclusivity for all.
As HEIs reflect on the insights gained from this event, it is hoped that they will incorporate these practices into their strategic planning and efforts to enhance educational standards and support the region’s long-term development.
