In a remarkable move toward future-focused education, the University of Northern Philippines has elevated its academic and social mission by partnering with the globally recognized Wadhwani Foundation, whose own mission resonates deeply with UNP’s aspirations. This collaboration, formally sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing, is expected to transform the educational landscape of UNP and empower its students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
The Wadhwani Foundation, founded in 2001 by Indian-American entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, is driven by a singular vision: to accelerate economic development in emerging economies by enabling millions of people to secure family-sustaining wages and dignified livelihoods. Its mission is advanced through four key pillars: entrepreneurship, skilling, innovation and research, and government digital transformation, all powered by technology and AI-enabled platforms that democratize access to knowledge and opportunity. With operations spanning Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the foundation has established itself as a global force for inclusive growth and large-scale social impact.
In his message, Dr. Erwin Cadorna warmly welcomed the partnership with the Wadhwani Foundation, stressing that it represents more than the signing of an agreement. “Today’s meeting represents not just the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, but a shared commitment to equipping our students to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing global environment,” he said. He emphasized that education must go beyond classrooms by nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets and providing essential skills such as adaptability, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
Dr. Cadorna then emphasized the transformative role of the collaboration, saying, “We firmly believe that our collaboration with the Wadhwani Foundation will enable us to realize these objectives in a more tangible manner. Through the collaboration of academic institutions and industry partners, we are establishing avenues for our students to engage in learning while also applying their knowledge in practical, real-world situations. We believe that this partnership will foster the development of a new generation of graduates who will emerge as not only job seekers but also as job creators, innovators, and responsible leaders.” He concluded by expressing confidence that the partnership will empower students to excel not just locally but also in the global arena.
Mr. Lucrecio Delgado Jr., Regional Director of the Southeast Asia Wadhwani Foundation, praised UNP for its commitment to innovation and its openness to building an entrepreneurial ecosystem within the university. “The Philippines is strong in macro-level innovation, but we must do more to empower aspiring entrepreneurs at the ground level,” Delgado explained. He highlighted that UNP’s proactive decision to embrace the Wadhwani Foundation’s programs is an example of the leadership required to drive grassroots progress. “By working together, we can equip Filipinos with the mindsets and tools to not only find a job, but to create their own dignified livelihoods. UNP’s openness to this partnership gives us confidence that together, we can contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous Philippines,” he added.
Mr. Matt Rodnie Matias, Senior Consultant for Design Thinking, Social Innovation & Program Management at the Wadhwani Foundation, likewise commended UNP’s leadership in embracing the partnership. “The work we do is to be able to have meaningful entrepreneurship and we do this in two ways: creating jobs and transforming lives,” Matias said. He expressed gratitude to UNP for welcoming the foundation’s programs, noting that the privilege of collaboration belongs equally to the foundation. “The privilege and honor are ours because UNP gives us the opportunity to share our resources and bring our mission to life. We are excited to see UNP become a hub for skilling, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Northern Luzon,” he remarked.
Matias went on to personally thank Dr. Edelyn Cadorna, Assistant Director of the International Affairs and External Linkages Office and concurrent Director of the University Research and Development Office, for her persistence and leadership in making the collaboration possible. “I especially want to thank Dr. Edelyn Cadorna, whose dedication and persistence made this partnership possible,” Matias said. He emphasized that her efforts ensured UNP’s priorities aligned with the foundation’s mission, proving how strong leadership in international linkages and research can open global opportunities for the university.
Matias also explained that the foundation will be rolling out its flagship initiatives at UNP, including the Skilling, Innovation and Research, and Digital Transformation Arm, all provided at no cost. These programs will give UNP’s students and faculty access to world-class training, research, and entrepreneurial tools. “Our goal is to democratize access to research and opportunities so that more young people can develop their ideas and transform them into sustainable businesses,” he emphasized, pointing out that UNP now stands at the forefront of a broader movement to prepare students not just to succeed in the job market, but to create jobs for others.
The MOU signing ceremony was graced by the university’s top officials and academic leaders, underscoring UNP’s strong institutional support for the partnership. In attendance were Dr. Rolando Navarro, VP for Academic Affairs; Dr. Fatima Rocamorra, VP for Research and Extension; and Mr. Albert Tejero, VP for Administration and Finance. Deans of key colleges also played important roles in the program: Dr. Nelia Versoza, Dean of the College of Engineering (COE), delivered the welcome remarks; Prof. Roseanne Agup, Dean of the College of Communication and Information Technology (CCIT), presented the rationale; and Dr. Erwin Tolbe, Dean of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA), gave the closing remarks. Also present were Dr. Julius Albalos, Dean of the College of Technology; Director Sally Jarin of the International Affairs and External Linkages Office; Dr. Edelyn Cadorna, Assistant Director of the same office and Director of the University Research and Development Office; and, assistant deans and faculty members from the three participating colleges, all of whom demonstrated the collective commitment of UNP’s academic community to this milestone partnership.
The partnership between UNP and the Wadhwani Foundation symbolizes the meeting of two visions: the foundation’s global mission of large-scale job creation and UNP’s determination to mold innovators and leaders of change. With the support of this collaboration, UNP is set to redefine its role as a center of innovation, research, and entrepreneurship in Northern Luzon and contribute meaningfully to the Philippines’ growing presence in the global innovation landscape.
