Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) proudly secured its place in the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), reaffirming its commitment to global recognition, innovation, and international collaboration. The recognition was formally conferred during the WURI Global Conference 2025 held on September 24–26, 2025, at Tongmyong University in Busan, South Korea.
CMU ranked 186th among the Top 400 universities worldwide and received plaques for its strong global performance: 184th overall, 38th in Cost-Benefit Management (B7), 47th in University Branding and Reputation (B8), and 55th in Industrial Application (A3). These honors highlight CMU’s diverse strengths across academic innovation, resource efficiency, reputation-building, and industry-driven research.
This milestone followed the official release of the 2025 WURI Rankings last June 9–11, 2025, during the 5th Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) Conference in Dumaguete City, hosted by Silliman University, Negros Oriental State University, St. Paul University Dumaguete, and Siquijor State College. The results positioned CMU among the world’s innovative institutions, marking another chapter in the university’s pursuit of academic excellence and international partnerships.
Representing CMU at the Busan conference were Office of Quality Assurance Assistant Director Prof. Erwin P. Ambasa, Technology Business Incubation Unit Chief Prof. Sheila C. Poonon, Office of Environmental Safety and Management Director Dr. Cecilia O. Bucayong, and Institute of Biological Science Director Dr. Reggie Y. dela Cruz. Together, they brought CMU’s innovations to the global stage, engaging with fellow educators and leaders in higher education.
During the category sessions, Prof. Ambasa presented “Breaking Ground: The Journey and Success of Mathematics in the Modern World (MMW) Textbook at Central Mindanao University” under B7 – Cost-Benefit Management, while Prof. Poonon showcased “Creating Agri-Aqua Enterprises, Nurturing Entrepreneurs: The Case of CMU Technology Business Incubator” under B8 – University Branding and Reputation. Dr. dela Cruz also highlighted CMU’s applied research with her presentation “PHARMAFERN: Development of Health Products from Ferns” in A3 – Industrial Application, and Dr. Bucayong presented “WURI Rankings – Their Roles and Impacts on University Management in the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI)” as Guest Editor of aSSIST Business Review.
The WURI Global Conference gathered university leaders and innovators from around the world to discuss pressing issues in higher education, from resource management to the integration of artificial intelligence. CMU’s active participation and recognition underscore its role as a competitive and forward-thinking institution that contributes to shaping the future of higher education globally.
This international recognition reflects not only CMU’s innovative programs but also the unwavering dedication of its faculty, staff, and partners in advancing its mission. As CMU continues to rise in global rankings, it strengthens its reputation as a leading university in the Philippines, one that embraces innovation, fosters international collaboration, and prepares its students and stakeholders to thrive in a rapidly changing world. [Information from Prof. Erwin P. Ambasa]
