DOrSU joins THE Asia Universities Summit 2026
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) joined higher education leaders from across Asia at the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2026 held from April 22 to 24 in Hong Kong.
Dr. Emily S. Antonio, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, represented DOrSU in the three-day summit organized by THE in partnership with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP). The summit convened more than 600 participants to explore Asia’s growing role as a global leader in innovation and the vital role of universities in shaping humanity’s future.
DOrSU’s participation came as its Macro- and Micro-Plastic Pollution (M2P2) Research Program was recognized as one of the top eight finalists for Research Project of the Year – STEM at the THE Awards Asia 2026, held on April 22 as part of the summit.
Although the University did not receive the award, Antonio said the recognition was already a significant achievement for DOrSU, especially as the awards drew more than 500 entries from higher education institutions across Asia.
“Being named among the top eight finalists is already a big win for DOrSU,” Antonio said. “It affirms that research from Davao Oriental can stand alongside the work of leading universities in Asia.”
THE Awards Asia editor Chris Havergal said THE awards were created to celebrate the diversity of Asian universities and to showcase excellence that is not always fully captured by traditional measures of esteem. He said this year’s winners and finalists offered fresh confirmation of the health and vibrancy of Asia’s higher education sector.
DOrSU’s participation in the summit provided an opportunity to engage in regional conversations on university-led innovation, sustainability, research impact, and the role of Asian higher education institutions in addressing global challenges. The engagement further reinforces the University’s direction as a regenerative futures university, with research serving not only as academic output but also as a tool for environmental stewardship, community development, and social transformation.
