2 Philippine universities vow higher academic standards

MANILA, Philippines—Two Philippine universities on Wednesday vowed to push for higher academic standards while maintaining good practices already in place in their schools as world university rankings showed a slump in Philippine standings this year.

The Ateneo de Manila University and the De La Salle University, both private institutions, also noted the importance of international rankings in giving schools indicators on which to improve.

London-based research and ratings firm Quacquarelli (QS) on Monday released its 2011/2012 index of top-rank universities, with four Philippine universities rated outside the 300 world’s best and faring worse than they did last year: the University of the Philippines (332), Ateneo de Manila University (360), De La Salle University (551-600 bracket) and the University of Santo Tomas (601+ bracket).

“As we have mentioned in past years, rankings are important because they provide an external perspective,” said John Paul Vergara, Loyola Schools vice president.

In a statement sent to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Vergara said the Ateneo would boost its research out and internationalization (student exchange), which make up QS criteria in assessing the world’s universities.

He noted that Philippine universities, in general, rate poorly in terms of research citations as the total papers and citations number “in the hundreds” while top-rated foreign universities have an annual research and citation output “in the several thousands.”

“We will continue to ensure that we do well in areas where we have done well, and improve in areas where we have not done well, as long as we do these in ways that are consistent with our mission which is the total formation of our students and the production of knowledge that will contribute to national development,” said Vergara.

DLSU also reiterated its commitment to delivering quality education to the youth.

“De La Salle University acknowledges the value of different surveys that rank academic institutions worldwide using various criteria.  These appraisals allow us to view the institution from different perspectives,” DLSU said.

“The University remains committed to its mission of being a resource for Church and Nation, focused on academic excellence and holistic development of the youth under its care,” read the university’s statement.

QS noted that the ratings slide among Philippine universities was “possibly not a surprise” and show a “clear illustration of the link between investment and results in higher education.”

American and European Universities dominated the rankings and universities from Japan, South Korea, China and Hongkong also made the top 50.  The University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom topped this year’s list.