· ,

UC Strengthens National Development Through Research, Innovation, and SDG-Driven Partnerships

Baguio City, Philippines – The University of the Cordilleras (UC) continues to advance its commitment to evidence-based governance and national development through research, innovation, and strong partnerships aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By working closely with regional and national institutions, UC has implemented programs that directly enhance public safety, health services, sustainable planning, and financial literacy.

Boosting Public Safety and Cyber Preparedness

November 20, 2024 – One of UC’s most notable initiatives is the CrimeXperience Project, an immersive extended reality crime scene simulation created with the Police Regional Office–Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO-CAR) and funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The platform gives police officers a more controlled environment where they can practice crime scene investigation skills repeatedly and safely. According to officers who completed the training, the system helped them become more confident and consistent during real operations. The project directly contributes to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and continues to support law enforcement capability-building in the region.

October 3, 2024 – UC’s involvement in national cybersecurity efforts has also grown through the Securing the Cyber Domain Initiative, carried out with the University of Cincinnati and supported by CHED. Military and civilian personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) received training on digital defense and the socio-political issues surrounding cyber threats. Several participants mentioned that they were able to use what they learned almost immediately in their units, helping strengthen the country’s overall cyber readiness—aligned with SDGs 4 and 16.

Advancing Ethical Health Research and Quality Care

December 13, 2024 – To help raise standards in health research, UC hosted the Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET) in partnership with the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board and the Cordillera Regional Health Research and Development Consortium. The training focused on responsible research practices, participant protection, and ethical decision-making. Many attendees have since applied these principles in their current projects, improving the safety and quality of ongoing health studies in the region.

December 2, 2024 – UC faculty also took part in the 41st Founding Anniversary and Annual Convention of the Mother and Child Nurses Association of the Philippines, where they shared insights on maternal, neonatal, and child care. Their involvement supported national efforts to strengthen healthcare training and professional development, contributing further to SDGs 3 and 4.

Supporting Sustainable Cities, Financial Integrity, and Community Development

December 19, 2024 – Research from UC’s College of Engineering and Architecture continues to influence local planning discussions. The Baguio City Government recently acknowledged the College for several studies on urban sustainability, climate adaptation, green infrastructure, and overall livability. Some of these works have already been used as references in planning meetings, especially when officials discuss long-term environmental strategies. These efforts support SDGs 11 and 13.

November 21, 2024 – UC also helped strengthen financial awareness through its partnership with SEC Baguio for the Investor Protection Roadshow. Students were introduced to topics such as personal finance, investment scams, cybersecurity, and the basics of investor protection laws. Many participants shared that the talk gave them a clearer understanding of the risks they may encounter when making financial decisions. This initiative supports SDGs 4, 8, 16, and 17, emphasizing responsible and informed economic behavior.

January 7, 2024 – The University’s community involvement extended to cultural and tourism development as well. During the Adivay Festival, students from the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) turned over award-winning promotional materials to the Municipality of Kabayan, Benguet. These materials are now being used in local campaigns to highlight Kabayan’s cultural heritage and promote sustainable tourism, supporting SDG 11.

Advancing Sustainable Development Through Collaboration

Across these initiatives, UC demonstrates that research has greater impact when it is shared with institutions and communities that can apply it. By sustaining partnerships with government agencies, professional organizations, and international collaborators, the University ensures that its academic expertise leads to meaningful and practical outcomes. Through its strong commitment to SDG 17, UC reaffirms the essential role of education, innovation, and partnerships in building a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive society on a broader national scale.

SDGIndicatorHow the University’s Initiatives Align

3 – Good Health and Well-Being
3.1 – Reduce global maternal mortality ratio
3.2 – End preventable deaths of newborns and children under five		UC College of Nursing faculty contributed to national healthcare policy discussions and professional development, which enhanced maternal, neonatal, and child health practices, leading to improved healthcare outcomes in the region.
4 – Quality Education4.4.1 – Increase youth and adults with relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurshipUC conducted ethics training, cybersecurity workshops, and financial literacy programs, which equipped students and professionals with relevant skills, fostering career readiness and ethical practice in their respective fields.
8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth8.6.1 – Reduce youth not in employment, education, or trainingUC organized the SEC Investigator Protection Roadshow, which improved students’ financial literacy, fraud awareness, and leadership skills, preparing them to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.
16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions16.5.1 – Reduce bribery and corruption
16.6.2 – Proportion of population satisfied with public services		UC partnered with PRO-CAR for the CrimeXperience project and with SEC for the roadshow, which strengthened local institutions, promoted transparency, and enhanced ethical practices, contributing to more accountable governance and public services.
17 – Partnerships for the Goals17.17.1 – Promote effective public-private partnerships
UC collaborated with government agencies, professional associations, and international partners, which enabled evidence-based initiatives and community projects, amplifying the university’s impact on sustainable development locally and nationally.

References:

Read more…