Article by SSU International Affairs Office
METRO MANILA, Philippines—For an impressive three consecutive years, Samar State University (SSU) has proudly earned the distinguished International Champion of Nation Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Award conferred by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) during the Commission’s Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability Awards 2024 held on December 16, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center, Metro Manila. Since 2022 until this year, SSU stood out as one of only six universities in Region VIII to be acknowledged for its achievements in global rankings, such as the World University Ranking for Innovation (WURI) and the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings.
SSU was represented by Dr. Elmer A. Irene, Director for SSU Office of International Affairs, who received the award on behalf of University President Dr. Redentor S. Palencia. This prestigious accolade highlights SSU’s firm commitment to excellence and significant contributions to advancing education, sustainability, and nation-building on a global scale. The ICONS Awards celebrate outstanding higher education institutions and leaders that actively champion the internationalization of Philippine higher education, fostering connections and collaborations within ASEAN and across the globe. SSU’s recognition underscores its leadership in shaping a brighter future through education and innovation.
SSU’s continued success in the ICONS Awards reflects its dedication to nurturing a world-class academic environment that not only benefits its students and faculty but also serves as a beacon of innovation and progress for the nation and beyond.