QCU Research Capability Seminar Highlights Collaboration and Innovation in
Academic Research
Quezon City University (QCU), in collaboration with Polangui Community College, Initao College, and Colegio ng Lungsod ng Batangas, successfully conducted a Research Capability Seminar on October 11, 2024, as part of the Ceremonial Signing of Memoranda of Understanding between the four institutions.
Held via Zoom, the seminar featured Dr. Jessa Frida T. Festijo, Director of the Research and Innovation Center at Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila, who presented the importance of collaborative research. Dr. Festijo emphasized the need for institutions to go beyond individual achievements and work together to address complex societal issues through research.
“Research is not just about outputs; it’s a process that must be disseminated, utilized, and, if possible, commercialized,” Dr. Festijo stated. She shared LPU’s approach to research productivity, highlighting their goal of producing 120 published documents annually. While she acknowledged challenges such as the high costs of publishing in reputable journals and limited access to research experts, she emphasized that collaboration and resource-sharing among institutions are key to overcoming these hurdles.
Dr. Festijo provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of academic research. She highlighted the importance of using credible research databases like Web of Science and Scopus, which uphold stringent listing standards to ensure quality publications. While applied sciences, engineering, and technology have historically produced the highest number of publications, she pointed out that interdisciplinary research holds the potential to address global challenges.
Dr. Festijo also encouraged participants to consider how their work could contribute to solving common issues such as diversity, equity, and good governance. She shared an inspiring example of an international collaboration where LPU facilitated research on cultural anthropology in indigenous communities, demonstrating how academic partnerships can make meaningful contributions without substantial funding.
The seminar also delved into the realities of research productivity, including the pressures of meeting ranking requirements and navigating the complexities of collaborative work. Dr. Festijo acknowledged that differences in institutional priorities and limited resources can pose challenges but stressed that flexibility, mutual understanding, and shared objectives are critical for success.
Key takeaways included the importance of leveraging partnerships to pool knowledge, expertise, and resources. Dr. Festijo underscored that no single institution can address societal challenges alone. By fostering a culture of collaboration, institutions can produce research that not only advances academic goals but also drives positive social change.
This seminar, which is part of the Research and Extension Capability Advancement Program (RECAP) of the QCU Research, Extension, Planning, and Linkages – Research Management Office, exemplifies the transformative potential of collaboration, inspiring participating institutions to strive for greater heights in their research endeavors. Through continued efforts, these institutions aim to create a lasting impact on the academic community and beyond.
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