University News

Vice President for Research, Extension and Development Completes Prestigious Wharton Executive Education Program

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED) at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), has successfully completed an intensive executive leadership program at the Wharton, Aresty Institute of Executive Education, University of Pennsylvania.

This was made possible by the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) landmark grant, Higher Education Upskilling and Study for Advancement of Staff and Faculty (HUSAY), created to fortify the governance of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) against two emerging forces— the sweeping disruptions of the post-pandemic landscape and the rapid, pervasive rise of artificial intelligence.

A “Human Firewall” in a Digital Age
As the academic world accelerates its integration of advanced technologies, Dr. Gapasin’s training comes at a pivotal moment: the rapid rise of AI in higher education and PUP’s emerging position as a prospective National Polytechnic University. Already at the forefront of the country’s pioneering research on AI Ethics and Governance, Dr. Gapasin returns with a powerful insight.

Dr. Gapasin emphasized that while algorithms are designed to improve efficiency, they lack empathy — the very quality that defines humanity. As the institution moves toward becoming a National Polytechnic University, she noted that technology will play a significant role in shaping its progress. However, she stressed that “the university’s core mission will continue to rely on human strengths, particularly compassion, connection, and the ability to build trust — qualities that no form of artificial intelligence can replace.”

By equipping leaders with Wharton’s human-centric frameworks, CHED is, in effect, installing a “human firewall” within our institutions. This ensures that as PUP advances through technological transformation, its progress remains ethical, inclusive, and grounded in national priorities.

Dr. Gapasin is helping address one of the central tensions of our era: the clash between the cold efficiency of algorithms and the warm, complex necessity of human development.

Unsung Engine of Public Education
As autonomy, purpose, and recognition continue to shape workplace motivation, a quieter but increasingly vital element is moving to the forefront: social connection. Dr. Gapasin underscores that innovation and efficiency, while essential, are not enough. The real challenge is building a work environment grounded in psychological safety, healthy relationships, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin said innovation is often mistaken as the primary engine of progress, when in fact, connection remains the true driving force of public education. She noted that “efficiency loses its value if people do not feel safe, emphasizing the need to cultivate a culture that goes beyond task completion.” According to her, fostering a “genuine sense of belonging allows individuals to feel seen” — and it is those individuals who ultimately make the greatest impact.

This focus on connectedness is no mere soft benefit; it is a strategic imperative. In an era defined by automation, the human dimensions of work — interpersonal trust, community, and shared identity — are the very qualities technology cannot reproduce. These elements form the foundation of resilience and fuel the sustained effort organizations rely on.

For faculty navigating the constraints of public education, authentic connection to colleagues and the institution often determines whether they can summon the discretionary effort required to excel, despite limited resources. For leaders in state universities, fostering social cohesion is no longer a secondary management concern. It has emerged as one of the most powerful levers for unlocking potential and protecting the human capital at the core of public higher education.

Positioning Quality Education at the Core of Sustainable Development
Dr. Gapasin’s journey embodies the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in action. “As we stand on the precipice of becoming the National Polytechnic University, my hope is not just for a larger institution, but for a deeper one. Integrating the Sustainable Development Goals isn’t about ticking boxes on a global checklist; it is about reshaping the very soul of our university,” Dr. Gapasin said.

Dr. Gapasin outlined a vision for future training programs that go beyond standard compliance requirements, emphasizing the institutionalization of executive upskilling focused on forward-looking governance. She said the goal is to “prepare administrators and faculty not only to manage campuses, but to navigate increasing complexity,” ensuring that institutional systems remain globally competitive and that every student receives a future-ready education. This is aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education).

According to Dr. Gapasin, PUP’s future will be defined by its ability to embrace advanced technology without losing sight of its human-centered mission. Investing in this aspect of educational governance is a decisive step for PUP as it advances its vision, mission, and goals.