06/05/2026
DOrSU Lands in Five WURI 2026 Categories, Places 15th Globally in Interdisciplinary Research
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) earned international recognition after securing placements in five categories of the 2026 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), highlighted by its 15th global ranking in interdisciplinary research — one of the highest placements achieved by a Philippine state university in this year’s rankings.
The university placed 15th worldwide in C2 – Interdisciplinary, Convergent, and Integrated Research through its study, “Macro-and Micro-Plastic Pollution (M2P2) in Marine Ecosystem and Fisheries in South-Eastern Mindanao.” The project focuses on environmental threats affecting coastal communities and marine biodiversity in the region.
Apart from its Top 15 placement, DOrSU also gained recognition in four other WURI categories through programs and initiatives centered on leadership, sustainability, technology-driven education, and community impact.
In B1 – Visionary Leadership, DOrSU earned recognition through “Hiraya ng Silangang Davao,” a university-wide capacity-building program aimed at establishing a Center for Futures Thinking and Regenerative Development.
The university was also cited in B6 – Infrastructure and Technologies for its “ICT Solution for Transformative Education – A Sustainable Smart Campus Initiative,” which highlights DOrSU’s efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and smart campus development.
Meanwhile, in B8 – University Brand and Reputation, the university gained recognition for “Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) – Building a Regenerative Futures University through Futures Thinking and Regenerative Development.”
In C5 – Social Impact through Knowledge Transfer, DOrSU was recognized for its initiative titled “Strengthening Community-Based Coastal Resource Management (CBCRM) through Technology and Skills Transfer for the Conservation and Sustainability of Mayo Bay and Adjacent Coastal Ecosystems.”
The WURI rankings assess universities based on innovation, practical impact, and contribution to society rather than traditional academic indicators alone. Institutions from around the world participate in the rankings to highlight programs and research initiatives addressing contemporary global challenges.
DOrSU’s performance reflects the growing presence of Philippine regional universities in international innovation rankings, particularly in areas involving sustainability, environmental research, and community engagement.
The latest WURI results also underscore the expanding role of regional state universities in the country’s research and development landscape as higher education institutions continue strengthening their global competitiveness through innovation-driven and socially responsive programs.
