USTP secures spot in Global Top 400 Innovative Universities in WURI 2025

By Anne Lorraine R. Sitoy, USTP System STRATCOMM
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) has been recognized in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025, securing its place among the Global Top 400 Innovative Universities at Rank 294.

USTP also achieved distinctions in three (3) out of sixteen (16) WURI categories this year:

  • Top 21 in Empowerment-Based Management (B2) out of 42 ranked
  • Top 39 in ESG Trend (B3) out of 47 ranked
  • Top 51 in Funding for Sustainability (B5) out of 100 ranked

The WURI Ranking evaluates innovative programs of universities worldwide. This year’s results were announced on July 10, 2025, during the WURI Ranking 2025 conference held alongside the 5th HLU Conference in Dumaguete City.

According to WURI, the new categories — Empowerment-Based Management (B2) and ESG Trend (B3) — underscore the belief that an institution’s true strength emerges from its field operations and responsiveness to the real world. B2 highlights how effective leadership adapts and builds strong stakeholder relationships, while B3 focuses on transparency, ethical governance, and environmental and social responsibility.

Below are WURI’s detailed descriptions of these categories:

B2. Empowerment-Based Management (New in 2025)

This innovative project/program shows the leader’s willingness to relinquish traditional privileges and continuously adapt to remain effective and influential in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. It highlights the leader’s strong interpersonal skills in building relationships and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, and external partners. These skills enable effective communication, conflict resolution, and the ability to inspire and motivate others toward shared goals.

B3. ESG Trend (New in 2025)

This innovative project/program emphasizes the adoption of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles to foster sustainable practices. Universities are expected to minimize environmental impact, manage resources responsibly, and promote social inclusivity by fostering diversity and ensuring access to education for all. Governance within ESG includes ethical, transparent decision-making and strong anti-corruption measures. By integrating these principles, universities contribute to global sustainability efforts and enhance their institutional reputation.

B5. Funding for Sustainability (Revised from B2 in 2024)

This innovative project/program reveals the innovative strategies the university employs to secure financial resources by diversifying funding streams and adopting new methods. It also highlights efforts to ensure stable funding to support its long-term goals and initiatives

In 2024, USTP also ranked in three (3) out of thirteen (13) WURI categories:

  • Top 55 in Student Mobility and Openness (A2) out of 84 ranked
  • Top 24 in Support for Global Resilience (A8) out of 36 ranked
  • Top 56 in Symbol/Promotion (B4) out of 71 ranked

The 2025 WURI conference was organized by the Institute for Policy and Strategy on National Competitiveness (IPSNC) and sponsored by four global institutions: the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU), the Institute for Industrial Policy Studies, the Taylor Institute, and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

The World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) emphasize innovation, differentiation, and long-term impact on industry and society. USTP’s success in these rankings affirms its commitment to shaping the future of education. By continuing to innovate in instruction, research, and extension, USTP ensures that these initiatives make a meaningful real-world impact, aligning with its vision of becoming a nationally recognized Science and Technology (S&T) University.