In a landmark moment for global academia and India–Philippines educational collaboration, Dr. Pratik Mungekar has been appointed as the first International Visiting Professor from India and notably, the first in the history of Bulacan State University (BulSU) Graduate School, Philippines.
The appointment marks not just a personal milestone, but a symbolic step forward in cross-border knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and the shared pursuit of academic excellence.
A Philosophy Rooted in Inquiry
Dr. Mungekar’s academic ethos is captured in a line that defines his teaching philosophy:
“When I teach, I don’t give answers—I plant questions strong enough to grow into research, innovation, and revolutions of thought.”
This belief in inquiry-led learning, critical thinking, and intellectual courage lies at the heart of his work as an educator, researcher, and thought leader. Rather than transmitting information, his approach focuses on cultivating minds capable of questioning assumptions, generating original research, and shaping future systems of knowledge.
A Historic Appointment
Dr. Mungekar formally received his appointment letter from Dr. Wally Galita, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Graduate School at BulSU, in the presence of Dr. Eugene Mutuc, Director of the International Relations Office. The moment signified BulSU’s first-ever international visiting professorship from India—setting a precedent for future global academic partnerships.
He expressed deep gratitude to BulSU President Dr. Andres and the university’s leadership for their trust, vision, and commitment to internationalization in higher education.
Beyond an Individual Achievement
While the appointment honors Dr. Mungekar’s academic contributions, its broader significance lies in what it represents. This milestone reinforces the growing alignment between Indian and Southeast Asian academic institutions, emphasizing shared priorities in research excellence, innovation ecosystems, and graduate-level scholarship.
For BulSU, the appointment strengthens its global academic footprint. For India, it highlights the increasing recognition of Indian scholars as contributors to international thought leadership.
A Role of Service and Stewardship
Dr. Mungekar has emphasized that this role is not merely honorary—it is one of responsibility. As an International Visiting Professor, his focus will be on mentoring graduate scholars, contributing to advanced research dialogues, and fostering collaborative frameworks that extend beyond institutional boundaries.
“I am proud, grateful, and ready to serve,” he shared, underscoring a commitment to stewardship rather than status.
A Signal to the Next Generation
In an age where higher education is being redefined by global mobility and interdisciplinary thinking, Dr. Mungekar’s appointment serves as inspiration for young scholars and educators. It affirms that rigorous thinking, clarity of purpose, and a research-driven mindset can transcend geography.
As Bulacan State University embraces this new chapter in its academic history, the message is clear: the future of education belongs to those willing to ask better questions—and build global bridges around them.