Congratulations, Dr. Ramir S. Austria, the current dean of UC College of Teacher Education for being appointed as Associate Member of the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) under Division VIII – Social Sciences. He took his oath on November 27, 2025.

A dedicated researcher and educator, Dr. Austria has led multiple nationally funded projects, including CHED-RECPE’s study on research content and pedagogy for Senior High School teachers, CHED-COE’s documentation of Ifugao cultural icons, DOST’s initiative on the digitalization of Cordilleran traditional sports and games using AI analytics, and RITQ’s development of Qualitative School Organization and Staffing Standards.

Since 2020, he has produced 44 research publications. He continues to serve as UC’s ETEEAP Coordinator, championing expanded pathways for students.

Dr. Austria’s appointment aligns strongly with several global goals—Quality Education (SDG 4) through strengthened teacher development; Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8 ) by advancing professional growth and academic innovation; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) through AI-driven and digital heritage projects; Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) via inclusive programs like ETEEAP; Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) through cultural preservation and education systems improvement; Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16) through research that informs policy; and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) through collaborations with CHED, DOST, NRCP, and other agencies.