The Catholic University of New Spain launches "digital badge" initiative (August, 2024)

The Catholic University of New Spain has launched its "digital badge" initiative. After careful consideration for several months, the advisory board recommended to the Chancellor the establishment of new alternative credentials to foster the synergy between theory and practice. The University is committed to excellency in both research and service and therefore it aims to recognize the importance of competencies and skills in a changing socio-economic landscape.

The first "digital badge" that was launched is the "High Impact Researcher" badge which is granted to top tier researchers who have achieved at least ten peer-reviewed publications in high impact journals as well as have presented as plenary speakers in ten international conferences or more. It is a pleasure to announce that the inaugural recipient of the "High Impact Researcher" digital badge was His Excellency Dr. Javier Aranceta Bartrina, President of the Royal Academy of Medicine of the Basque Country. Professor Arranceta has a verified H-index of 79 and his work has been cited more than 23000 times, making him one of the top scholars in Europe. Professor Aranceta's acceptance of this important digital credential sets a high bar for future recipients. Candidates for UCNE's digital badges need to be nominated by a member of the advisory board of by one of the regional delegates. UCNE's digital badges are hosted by Accredita and include a unique URL for each recipient making them instantly verifiable. https://www.acreditta.com/credential/9b972911-60e5-4b21-a4dc-e4885f833002

The University has also approved a "High Impact Instructor" badge and a "High Impact Coach" badge for senior practitioners who satisfy a strict set of criteria.