EduAsiaNews, Mindanao — Bukidnon State University (BukSU) is no longer just a familiar name in Mindanao, the Philippines. The public university in Region 10 has stepped onto the global higher education stage after receiving the ICONS Awards 2025, a recognition of its consistent performance in international university rankings. Led by Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis, the award signals a new momentum for BukSU as one of the country’s emerging institutions on the world stage.
The award was received in person by BukSU President Joy M. Mirasol, accompanied by Juliecriz B. Mallari, Executive Assistant III. For BukSU, the moment was more than ceremonial. It affirmed that years of sustained work in research, innovation, and sustainability are beginning to yield global recognition.
In her address, Agrupis highlighted the growing optimism surrounding Philippine higher education. The number of higher education institutions recognized by major international ranking systems has surged by 82 percent, reaching 173 institutions. The figure reflects a shifting landscape—from regional players to actors increasingly taken seriously at the global level. BukSU, Agrupis noted, is part of that wave.
Concretely, BukSU has secured its place in two major global rankings. In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, the university falls within the 801–1000 bracket, acknowledging its contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meanwhile, in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025, BukSU ranks 161st globally, underscoring its strengths in innovation, responsiveness, and societal engagement.
These achievements mark BukSU’s transformation into a university that not only delivers education in classrooms but also drives change in communities. From strengthening applied research to advancing sustainability agendas, the institution is steadily building a reputation as a driver of global competitiveness in Mindanao.
Organized by the CHED International Affairs Service, the ICONS Awards recognize outstanding institutional leaders, programs, and partnerships across eight categories. BukSU’s recognition reinforces its contribution to elevating the Philippines’ standing in global rankings while deepening its impact on the SDGs.
As Agrupis reminded award recipients, internationalization is not a race but a measure of impact. BukSU appears to have taken that message to heart. From Bukidnon, the university is moving forward with confidence—cultivating inclusive growth, expanding global networks, and preparing a generation of learners ready for a rapidly changing world. (**)
