HIGHLIGHTS
BRIEFER
2024
BRIEFER

SDG 9 - INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) exhibits comprehensive commitment to industry, innovation, and infrastructure development through systematic initiatives covering technological advancement, research excellence, infrastructure modernization, and strategic industry partnerships. In the field of engineering and technology education, UNP advances innovation through the College of Technology's establishment of the Mechatronics and Robotics League Ilocos Sur chapter, recognition of students achieving excellence in mechatronics and robotics skills competitions, and faculty engagement with the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines to maintain alignment with contemporary industry standards and technological developments. The university hosted specialized seminars featuring experts who discussed robotics applications for sustainable development, thereby fostering technological literacy and innovation capacity among the academic community. Faculty members from the College of Technology achieved NC II certification in automotive servicing, reflecting institutional commitment to maintaining elevated educational quality and industry safety standards. The College of Engineering operationalized unmanned aerial vehicle technology signifying the integration of advanced technological systems into educational curricula and engineering research applications, while honoring newly licensed engineers through formal recognition ceremonies acknowledging their professional accomplishments and the institution's role in preparing qualified workforce for infrastructure development and industrial advancement.
UNP advances artificial intelligence integration and digital innovation across institutional operations and academic programs. The university signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AI Labs, Malaysia, and launched a training workshop on AI in higher education, positioning UNP as a leader in innovative teaching and technology adoption. The university held comprehensive orientations for faculty and staff on AI-Driven Education and Management, equipping them with modern skills relevant to the evolving technological landscape and institutional innovation. The University Research and Development Office hosted the "UNPian AI Pioneers" groundbreaking research workshop bridging global expertise, equipping faculty and students with modern skills to drive innovation in research methodologies and applications. The Information and Communications Technology Office conducted comprehensive training ensuring readiness for system upgrades, maintaining modern and efficient administrative infrastructure. The IT and HR offices collaborated on workshops providing personnel with technical skills in computer troubleshooting and printer repair, improving institutional infrastructure and operational efficiency. An orientation on cybersecurity was held promoting the development of resilient digital infrastructure protecting institutional assets and data security.
UNP fosters research excellence and innovation recognition through strategic initiatives and awards programs. The University Research and Development Office inaugurated Gawad Saliksik, the university's first research awards ceremony recognizing and celebrating innovation and research foundational to industry development. The university partnered with the Department of Science and Technology on a program aimed at community empowerment through science and technology, leveraging research for social impact. UNP was recognized in global sustainability rankings for overall sustainability efforts including contributions to infrastructure and innovation key to achieving sustainable development. The College of Architecture students were recognized as finalists at the World Architecture Festival 2024 Student Charrette, highlighting the quality of the university's architectural program and its innovative approach to design and infrastructure development. A university center received accreditation from TESDA, signifying adherence to high standards in technical and vocational education and training essential for industry workforce development.
UNP develops infrastructure and promotes industry-relevant innovation across multiple sectors. The university inaugurated new Technology Complex floors representing direct investment in physical infrastructure supporting advanced technical education and research facilities. UNP partnered with Baluarte Zoo through a formal accord opening collaboration opportunities for research and innovation in areas such as animal science and tourism infrastructure development. The College of Teacher Education provided skills training in product labeling and packaging to support local food producers, promoting local industry and innovation in food production systems. The College of Hospitality and Tourism Management revived cultural traditions through puto and bibingka making, promoting local food industry and innovation in food production while preserving cultural heritage. The College of Communication and Information Technology's week-long celebration "Digital Horizons: Uniting Code with Creativity" promoted digital innovation and creativity key to modern industries, while providing technical support for community events like Miss Sta. Catalina 2024 illustrating practical application of technology. The university's Quality Workplace Team embraced a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, key to maintaining a modern and resilient institution capable of responding to evolving industry needs. Through documented initiatives spanning technological education, AI integration, research excellence, infrastructure investment, and industry partnerships, UNP establishes that achieving industry, innovation, and infrastructure development requires coordinated efforts across workforce preparation, digital transformation, research advancement, and strategic collaboration, positioning the university as a catalyst for technological innovation and industrial development in the Ilocos region.
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