Kalinga State University (KSU) was recently honored by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)- International Affairs Services (IAS) for its steadfast dedication to promoting the internationalization of Philippine Higher Education Institutions. The recognition was bestowed upon KSU during the International Champions of Nations- Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards 2023 ceremony, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City today.

KSU's remarkable commitment to internationalization was accentuated by its outstanding performance in globally recognized rankings and ratings, particularly its notable achievement in the World University Rankings for Innovation 2023, where it secured a remarkable position within the range of 101-200.

The ICONS Awards 2023 event served as a platform to celebrate the contributions of Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) to sustainability, their noteworthy accomplishments in international rankings and ratings, their pioneering efforts in advancing internationalization, and their valuable contributions to the prosperity of the ASEAN region.

Among the international league tables acknowledged by CHED are QS, THE, and WURI, with 76 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines being recognized. Notably, within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), nine (9) SUCs were celebrated for their exceptional contributions. These institutions include Abra State Institute of Science and Technology (ASIST), Benguet State University (BSU), Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC), Ifugao State University (IFSU), Kalinga State University (KSU), Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC), Saint Louis University (SLU), University of Baguio (UB), and University of the Cordilleras (UC).

Dr. J. Prospero De Vera III, CHED Chairperson, acknowledged and applauded the collective achievements and commitment of all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines. “In three (3) years, we have seen a remarkable increase in the number of Philippine HEIs from a little less than 20, there are 76 PHEIs, internationally benchmarking with the best universities in the world.” De Vera added.

It is recalled that on May 18, 2023, KSU made waves in the global education community when it secured an impressive ranking between 101 and 200 among the World University Rankings for Innovation.

KSU President, Eduardo T. Bagtang expressed his gratitude to the internationalization team, faculty, staff, and students and to all who contributed to the university's remarkable success. /muw-uio