Trailblazer Dr. Dong-sung Cho, the visionary behind WURI, has been igniting creativity and driving innovation in higher education since 2020 through the WURI initiative.
by Genevieve B. Kupang
The World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) is a visionary initiative transforming the way universities are recognized and celebrated. Founded by Dr. Dong-Sung Cho, a renowned academic and business leader, WURI redefines traditional metrics of academic excellence by focusing on the innovative, real-world contributions universities make to society. This platform allows institutions of all sizes to shine, regardless of their research output or financial resources.
Brunei’s University Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) leaders receive their wooden plaque of recognition from Dr. Cho. Photo credit: UNISSA.
Dr. Cho’s vision for the WURI Awards is rooted in his extensive experience in academia and business strategy. With a distinguished career that includes positions at Harvard Business School, Seoul National University, and Incheon National University, Dr. Cho has been instrumental in shaping educational policies and practices in Korea. His commitment to recognizing the unique contributions of all universities emphasizes the importance of inclusiveness in higher education.
WURI Global Conference 2024 Participants from Asia, Europe, Latin and North America.
Dr. Cho’s forward-thinking approach stems from his belief that universities are crucial to societal progress. Many smaller, underfunded or emerging institutions often struggle to compete for recognition and resources. By establishing WURI, Dr. Cho aims to level the playing field, providing these institutions with the opportunity to showcase their innovation and societal impact on a global stage.
Asian Institute of Maritime Studies delegation with WURI Foundation (LR). Mr. Patrick A. Cayab (Director, BEMO), Atty. Felson M. Dalaguet (Director, HRMO), Capt. Lino W. Paderanga (VP Professional Dev’t), Ms. Elisa A. Cayab (VP Finance), Dr. Arlene Abuid-Paderanga (President), Dr. Kim Jin-suk (Chair, WURI GC24 Executive Committee) Dr. Cho Dong-sung (WURI Foundation Founder), Ms. Jeannette S. Dalida (AVP Finance), Ms. Xessilaylah C. Lee (Head, Application Management), Prof. Robert F. Hayden Jr. (Director, Int’l Affairs & Planning ), and WURI Foundation Vice Chair Mr. Jung-Wan Cho.
The benefits of participating in WURI are substantial. First, it elevates smaller universities by giving them international visibility and recognition. This helps attract talented students, faculty, and potential collaborators. Second, WURI fosters a global exchange of ideas, bringing together academics, researchers, and administrators from diverse backgrounds. This collaborative spirit often leads to partnerships, professional development, and innovative research opportunities.
Romanian and Filipino WGC 2024 participants: Carmen Cretu, PhD, from Universitatea Alexandru Ioan Cuza, Dr. Jerry Cristobal, Vice President for Planning and Quality Management at PRMSU, and Dr. Ralph Arvic T. Arcenal from Biliran Province State University.
Moreover, WURI’s ranking system spans 13 categories, including social responsibility, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation. This broad range enables universities to demonstrate their strengths in specific areas, providing an inclusive space for smaller institutions to shine. Additionally, the process encourages self-assessment, guiding institutions to identify areas for improvement and growth.
Learning from the best. Marketing officer of Baguio Central University poses with WURI founder Dr. Dong-sung Cho after an insightful conversation.
The impact of WURI goes beyond just rankings. For many universities, it acts as a catalyst for institutional development. Participation drives innovation in research, teaching, and community engagement, which ultimately leads to greater investment in faculty, administrators and student development.
Thanks to Dr. Cho’s initiative, scholars from different corners of the globe are given a platform to exchange ideas. Lecturer Nimet Bulut from Abdullah Gul University (Turkey), who shared insights on the ERASMUSTERN Consortium Project for Internship, takes a photo with Dean Genevieve B. Kupang, PhD, from Baguio Central University.
In essence, WURI is more than just a ranking system; it is a movement that champions innovation and inclusiveness in higher education. Smaller universities, by engaging with this platform, not only gain recognition but also contribute to a more equitable global education landscape.
Dr. Rosalie Sheryll Rosales, Director of the Research Planning and Development Office, and Dr. Roger A. Martinez Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs from World Citi College (WCC) Aeronautical & Technological College (ATC), posed alongside Dr. Dong -Sung Cho. Credit: WCC ATC.
The recently concluded WURI Global Conference, from September 24-26, 2024, at aSSIST University in Seoul, Korea, exemplifies this mission. It brought together universities from around the world to engage in meaningful dialogue about innovation and societal impact. Dr. Cho’s leadership and vision are at the heart of WURI’s success, creating a future where all universities, regardless of size or resources, can be celebrated for their unique contributions.
Dr. Dong-Sung Cho earned his Doctoral Degree from Harvard Business School in 1977 and served as a Professor of Strategy for 36 years at Seoul National University and 2 years at Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business. Since July 2016, he has been the 15th President of Incheon National University, where he has implemented innovative initiatives like “Focused Research University,” “Matrix College,” “Tri-versity,” and the “International Teacher’s License.” He teaches an undergraduate course on “Creative Start-up” to encourage student entrepreneurship. A visiting professor at various prestigious institutions, Dr. Cho has published 115 academic papers and authored or co-authored 68 books, including titles in English and Chinese, as well as three novels. He has consulted for governments to enhance national competitiveness and has received multiple honors, including the “Order of Service Merit-Yellow Stripes” from Korea and an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Aalto University and Inje University.
Dr. Cho’s initiative has fostered a global community of scholars where they can exchange their studies and insights. Garry Vanz V. Blancia, PhD, Director of Research, Development, and Innovation at Romblon State University, presents ‘LIKHAMON, The Series.
Currently, the WURI Foundation members founded by Dr. Dong-sung Cho include WGC24 Chair Jin-suk Kim, Chair of WUNI Geon-Cheol Shin, Chair of WURI2025 Kyung-Sung Kim, Vice President Sang-Hyun Kim, and Vice Chair Jung Wan Cho. The World University Rankings for Innovation Global Conference (WGC2024) participants express their sincere gratitude for their hard work and commitment in making the WGC2024 a great and unforgettable success.
Participants relished the cutting-edge facilities at aASSIST University in Seoul, Korea, including this smart classroom, which set the stage for dynamic breakout sessions during WGC2024. (Photo taken on September 25, 2024.
In conclusion, WURI offers smaller, emerging, and underfunded universities an opportunity to be recognized, to learn from established and active global peers, and to drive meaningful innovation. Through Dr. Cho’s leadership, the WURI initiative not only reshapes how we think about academic excellence but also creates a platform where all universities worldwide can thrive.
References:
Minerva University. (2024). Minerva University Earns Title of Most Innovative University in the World. Minerva.edu
WURI. (2024). What is WURI. wuri.world
About the Author:
Genevieve Balance Kupang, PhD is the Baguio Central University’s dean of graduate school and representative for internationalization. She is a member of the board of directors of the Cordillera Association of the Internationalization Relations Officers (CAIRO) and the World University Network of Innovation (WUNI)-Leaders.
